You'll Always Make Room for Dessert With These 20 Irresistible Cupcake Recipes

Emina Hrkovic
Oct 30, 2023

Being the insufferable sweet tooth that I am, I'll find any excuse to make cupcakes. Holidays, birthdays, a night in? I'll find a recipe for any of these. For my fellow dessert lovers, I've scoured the culinary landscape to bring you an array of cupcake creations that are nothing short of extraordinary. These recipes are a testament to the art of baking, from the comforting embrace of spiced fall cupcakes to the classic elegance of red velvet and the innovative blend of chocolate and espresso, these cupcakes are the culmination of my relentless pursuit of the perfect sweet treat.

Black Velvet Cupcakes

Image via Amanda Wilens

With Halloween right around the corner, it's only appropriate we start with these spooky delights. This small-batch recipe yields seven devilishly delightful cupcakes adorned with cream cheese frosting and spooky sprinkles.

Vegan Chocolate Passion Fruit Cupcakes

Image via The First Mess

For all the vegan foodies out there, I've got you. These chocolate cupcakes, topped with coconut cream frosting and zesty passion fruit, are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings while giving you that refreshing feeling.

Blackberry Cupcakes with Blackberry Buttercream

Image via Pink Owl Kitchen

Just because summer is over, that doesn't mean we can't still enjoy its treats. These cupcakes, adorned with fresh blackberries, exude the essence of summer, offering a moist and delicate crumb. Crowned with a sumptuous blackberry buttercream, they're just the ultimate indulgence.

Vegan Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Image via Crowded Kitchen

If you're a plant-based foodie, look no further. Topped with a dreamy vegan cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are a delightful choice for birthdays, Easter, or any day you crave a luscious treat.

Key Lime Cupcakes

Image via Clean Cuisine

These dairy-free and gluten-free treats are naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup and bananas. Top them off with Whipped Coconut Frosting for the perfect, guilt-free indulgence.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Stuffed Cupcakes

Image via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog

These cupcakes are pure happiness for cookie dough fans. Imagine biting into a cupcake, and surprise! It's filled with edible cookie dough, then crowned with luscious chocolate frosting, adorable mini cookies, and an avalanche of chocolate chips.

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting

Image via Averie Cooks

Fall is all about pumpkin spice. This is a well-known fact. These delectable, petite confections offer a delightful way to make the most of that last dollop of pumpkin puree and provide a taste of the season's coziness.

Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Image via Completely Delicious

Red velvet's signature vibrant hue and distinctive flavor make it an all-time favorite. These cupcakes are not just charming but also easy to whip up. Perfect for Valentine's Day, birthdays, holidays, or just to treat yourself.

Perfect Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes

Image via Vanilla and Bean

These cupcakes are a coffee lover's dream. They boast a rich, tender chocolate cake infused with a bold espresso or strong coffee flavor. Topped with a velvety chocolate buttercream, they're an irresistible delight even for those of you trying to decrease your caffeine intake.

Tres Leches Cupcakes

Image via Averie Cooks

For a delightful addition to your cupcake repertoire, try these homemade Tres Leches Cupcakes. Indulge in the divine fusion of moist vanilla cake infused with a trio of milks elegantly crowned with a luscious buttercream frosting.

Yellow Coconut Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Image via Whole and Heavenly Oven

Ditch the cold weather and transport your taste buds to a tropical getaway with these coconut cupcakes. Fluffy, moist, and crowned with heavenly cream cheese frosting, they're an ideal treat.

Mini Chocolate Chip Maple Pancake Cupcakes

Image via Two Peas and Their Pod

Can't choose between pancakes and cupcakes? Why not have both? The soft, sweet maple vanilla cupcake, adorned with a fluffy maple buttercream frosting and mini chocolate chips, is a bite-sized masterpiece. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.

Cream Cheese Vanilla Cupcakes

Image via Feel Good Foodie

These cream cheese vanilla cupcakes bring a timeless classic to life with their moist and delicate vanilla crumb paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Enjoy a sweet bite of nostalgia with each delicious treat.

Strawberry Cupcakes

Image via Culinary Hill

These strawberry cupcakes are a rosy dream come true, with luscious fruit purée in the batter and a classic cream cheese frosting infused with freeze-dried strawberries for a burst of berry flavor. Just writing about them makes my mouth water!

Chocolate Bourbon Cupcakes with Butter Pecan Frosting

Image via Half-Baked Harvest

Treat yourself to the delightful blend of bourbon, chocolate, and pecans in these charming cupcakes. They are packed with rich flavors (thanks to the bourbon), and the butter pecan frosting is like a sweet embrace that makes them even more scrumptious.

Irish Chocolate Cupcakes

Image via Averie Cooks

St. Patty's Day is a little far, but it doesn't hurt to plan ahead, right? These tender chocolate cupcakes are infused with the rich flavors of Guinness and Jameson Irish whiskey, and they're filled with a decadent chocolate ganache. The finishing touch is a silky Baileys buttercream frosting, making them the perfect not-too-boozy and not-too-sweet dessert to celebrate the holiday.

Vegan Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes 

Image via Earthly Provisions

When you bite into these cupcakes, you're in for a real treat. They boast a moist and soft texture, infused with the zesty essence of real lemon through both juice and zest. What sets them apart is the delightful hidden surprise — a center filled with raspberry jam!

Banana Bread Cupcakes with Streusel Topping

Image via Woman Scribbles

I'm sure I'm not alone in my love for banana bread, and now in cupcake form. These mini delights are the perfect treat for embracing the chilly weather and make a splendid pairing with a warm mug of hot chocolate or soothing matcha latte.

Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes

Image via The Endless Meal

The beautiful combination of peanut butter and banana here offers a light, fluffy texture that's perfect for any occasion. Customize them with banana chips, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of peanut butter for a delightful treat in under an hour!

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Browned Butter Buttercream

Image via Half-Baked Harvest

Once spooky season is over, get ready to jump into that Christmas onesie! Get into the holiday spirit with each delectable bite of these gingerbread cupcakes, where the cozy flavors of ginger, molasses, and spices come together in a party for your taste buds.

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Header image via Crowded Kitchen

8 “Old School” Desserts We’re Surprised To Still See In 2025

Some desserts are timeless classics (looking at you, cookies and brownies), while others have truly faded into nostalgia territory. From over-the-top gelatin molds to fruity treats that peaked decades ago, certain sweets just don’t have the same appeal they once did.

If you’ve ever wondered which desserts are clinging to the past (and which ones you should definitely reconsider making in today's age), it’s time to take a deliciously nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Scroll on for 8 "old school" desserts that have lost their sweet charm.

مآمثلي آحد / PEXELS

1. Baked Alaska

This extravagant dessert featuring ice cream encased in cake and meringue was once a total showstopper at fine dining establishments. However, its complexity along with the rise of simpler, more modern frozen desserts has led it to fade from the dessert zeitgeist. It’s also quite tricky to prepare at home yourself, requiring careful timing and a quick broil – all without melting the ice cream inside.

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2. Ambrosia

Ambrosia was a true staple of mid-century American potlucks. It’s essentially a fruit salad mixed with canned mandarin oranges, pineapples, marshmallows, and coconut, often held together with whipped cream or (shudders) mayonnaise. It has fallen out of favor due to its heavy reliance on processed ingredients and a shift toward fresher, less-sugary desserts.

Betty Crocker

3. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Oh, so retro! This buttery cake prepped with caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries on top was wildly popular in the 1950s and ‘60s, but isn’t too hot anymore since most dessert recipes these days tend to rely on less-processed, canned ingredients. At least it looks cool!

Allrecipes

4. Jell-O Salad

As another mid-century favorite, Jell-O salad combined flavored gelatin with a mix of fruits, marshmallows, and sometimes even vegetables like shredded carrots or olives (what the?!). Once an undeniable go-to for dinner parties and church potlucks, it’s now really seen as an oddity due to its artificial flavors, wobbly texture, and unconventional ingredient pairings.

Billie Lentz / Dupe

5. Chess Pie

Chess Pie is a simple (and very sweet) Southern dessert made from eggs, sugar, butter, and vinegar or lemon juice. It also boasts a rich, custard-like filling! While it still has a niche following, it has been overshadowed by trendier, more visually appealing pies like salted caramel or chocolate silk.

Felicity Tai / PEXELS

6. Fruit Cake

There was once a time where you couldn’t go wrong with fruit cake. This holiday staple, oftentimes packed with candied fruits and nuts, has earned a reputation for being overly-dense and cloyingly sweet. It’s also commonly mocked for its long shelf life and dry texture, making it more of a novelty than an actual dessert.

Allrecipes

7. Watergate Salad

A wacky creation of the 1970s, this pastel-green dessert featured pistachio pudding mix, Cool Whip, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and nuts. Though it was once pretty trendy for the times, its artificial flavors and processed ingredients make it feel super outdated in today’s era of more natural, whole-food desserts.

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8. Rice Pudding

You don’t see this one too much anymore. While rice pudding was once pretty common, it has become eclipsed by trendier desserts like crème brûlée or mousse. Its soft, slightly mushy texture and simple ingredients may feel too plain for modern dessert lovers seeking more complex flavors and textures.

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10 “Cozy” Plus-Size Lounge Sets From Amazon That Look Super Luxe

Cozy outfits don’t have to be unflattering, and these 10 plus-sizelounge sets from Amazon totally prove it! Plus, you can snag each one without breaking the budget – yet they all look super luxe. From buttery-soft fabrics to effortlessly chic designs, these sets are perfect for everything from lazy weekend hangs to WFH days. If you're looking for plus-size loungewear that feels just as good as it looks, these picks definitely deserve a spot in your wardrobe.

Scroll on for the 10 cutest and coziest plus-size lounge sets you can shop on Amazon!

Amazon

In'voland Plus Size Linen Shorts Set

Breezy and oh-so easy, this linen set works great for more put-together and laze-around-at-home moments alike.

Amazon

Beautife Plus Size Striped Knit Lounge Set

You're gonna want to live in this soft knit set 24/7. The stripes totally kick it up a notch!

Amazon

Oyoangle Plus Size Floral Sleepwear Lounge Set

For more of a pajama vibe, this plus size lounge set comes complete with plenty of frills and florals. You could easily style the top with comfy jeans and sandals for an easy spring 'fit, too!

Amazon

Tiyomoi Button Down Textured Top Set

This set is cut from some insanely soft and breathable fabric to keep you feeling cool. The textured, pleated look makes it look more polished, so you can step out with the utmost confidence!

Amazon

Ekouaer Knit Sweater Lounge Set

Your next WFH session is calling! The high-quality knitted fabric this 2-piece set is made of is said to be "skin-friendly," so you won't feel irritated wearing it all day long.

Amazon

Pinsv Short Sleeve Top & Flare Pants Lounge Set

Easy to put on and even easier to wear during long days, this lounge set is crafted using a pleasantly soft material that moves with you – not against you. It also comes in so many different colors to match your personal style!

Amazon

Zhuhouse Plus Size Pajama Lounge Set

This butter yellow color is undeniably trendy at the moment, so you'll look effortlessly stylish when you slip it on. Whether it's for a movie night at home or a sleepover with your bestie, you'll feel put-together and so cute! Complete the look with your fave slippers, and voila!

Amazon

Ritera Plus Size Pullover Set

The ribbed knit on this plus size lounge set gives it that luxe vibe you're looking for. Better yet, the calm cashmere color is easy to wear with any and every accessory, from loafers to denim jackets when it's chilly out.

Amazon

Eytino Plus Size Pullover Top & Short Set

The varied stripes on this easy-wearing set will definitely have heads turning your way – it's an unexpected (and super stylish) departure from your traditional lounge set designs.

Amazon

Beautife Plus Size Striped Casual Lounge Set

Soft, breathable, and lightweight, this lounge set will feel like a second skin when you wear it. The stripes feel oh-so elevated for such an affordable lounge set!

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This New $5 Trader Joe’s Frozen Dessert Has Countless Shoppers Saying “Yummm!”

Sometimes a sweet treat just hits differently in warmer weather, and Trader Joe’s (in true Trader Joe’s fashion) just dropped thedessert of the spring and summer. I hear you, I hear you… it’s a tad bit early to start thinking about scorching, sunny days, but trust me: this new $5 dessert will have you yearning for summer the second you see it.

Scroll on to discover the newly-dropped Trader Joe’s find shoppers are calling delicious, yummy, and amazing!

@trader_joes_treasure_hunt

The summery dessert in question is the all-new Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream, and it’s so dreamy. Featuring dollops of blood orange-flavored ice cream cased in sweet mochi dough, it’s the kind of sweet treat you can easily eat with your hands… and keep eating over and over and over again.

Any Lane / PEXELS

The mochi ice cream is also crafted without any artificial colors or flavors, so you really get the full effect of the rich citrus. Blood oranges are also typically sweeter than regular oranges, making them perfect for putting into desserts.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the new Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream with their followers, saying the treat is “tart and creamy” and also “not too sweet.” One commenter that got a taste noted that each ice cream piece is like “a creamsicle's more worldly cousin.” Another person compared the flavor to a Flintstone's Push-Up popsicle.

Well-rounded and nostalgic? Now I have to try this!

Nadin Sh / PEXELS

The Trader Joe’s Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream can be found on shelves for $4.99. Each box comes with 6 mochi ice cream bites, and what’s even more exciting is the nutrition label says a single serving size is 6 pieces – AKA the entire box. Woah!

Additionally, this sweet snack is kosher and gluten-free.

I’m definitely going to be grabbing several boxes to try – and hopefully manifest an early start to springtime!

What are your favorite Trader Joe's desserts? Let us know in the comments and subscribe to our newsletter to discover even more new Trader Joe's items!

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The 8 Best TV Shows To Watch On Paramount+ This Month

With streamers like Netflix and Max adding brand new titles every month, we're always in for an entertaining binge watch. And thanks to Paramount+, we have more than a few TV shows to welcome spring. Whether you're obsessed with Taylor Sheridan shows or you love true crime-inspired drama, here are some of the best series to watch on Paramount+ this month.

The 8 best TV shows to watch on Paramount+ in March 2025.

1. Happy Face — Stream on Paramount+ March 20, 2025

Victoria Will/Paramount+

This new TV show follows Melissa, who comes face-to-face with her father (the infamous Happy Face Killer) after decades of separation when she realizes an innocent man might pay for her dad's crimes.

Happy Face premieres March 20 and stars Annaleigh Ashford, Dennis Quaid, James Wolk, Tamera Tomakili, Khiyla Aynne, and Benjamin Mackey.

2. The Amazing Race season 37 — Stream on Paramount+ on Wednesdays

CBS

14 teams compete in this season of the hit adventure reality show, stopping in Osaka, Japan to complete a 12,000 year old tradition and in Strasbourg, France to explore its medieval history. And this year, they're in for both classic games and new challenges.

The Amazing Race season 37 is hosted by Phil Keoghan.

3. Yellowjackets season 3 — Stream on Paramount+ on Fridays

Kailey Schwerman/Paramount+ with SHOWTIME

As winter ends, the teens realize their trust in one another has fractured — while the present-day Yellowjackets have to face secrets that threaten everything.

Yellowjackets season 3 stars Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci, Tawny Cypress, Lauren Ambrose, Sophie Nélisse, Courtney Eaton, Kevin Alves, Sophie Thatcher, Samantha Hanratty, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Liv Hewson, Steven Krueger, Warren Kole, Sarah Desjardins, Simone Kessell, Elijah Wood, Joel McHale, and Hilary Swank.

4. 1923 Season 2 — Stream on Paramount+ on Sundays

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

The Duttons are fighting for their survival in 1923 season 2 as they protect the Yellowstone ranch — and each other. I'm just waiting for the day Alex and Spencer finally reunite!

1923 stars Julia Schlaepfer, Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren, Brandon Sklenar, Darren Mann, Michelle Randolph, Jerome Flynn, Aminah Nieves, and Isabel May.

5. 1883 — Stream on Paramount+

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

Dive into the Taylor Sheridan universe with this Yellowstone prequel that follows the Dutton family as they move their entire lives across the United States.

1883 stars Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Sam Elliott, Isabel May, LaMonica Garrett, Marc Rissmann, Audie Rick, Eric Nelsen, and James Landry Hébert.

6. Sin City Gigolo: A Murder in Las Vegas — Stream on Paramount+

Showtime/Paramount+

After a star from 2010s' reality show Gigolos was convicted of murder in 2020, this docuseries examines the line between fame, crime, and reality.

Sin City Gigolo follows the story of Ash Armand and the other Las Vegas gigolos.

7. School Spirits — Stream on Paramount+

Katie Yu/Paramount+

The internet can't get enough of this Paramount+ show, and considering the season 2 finale just dropped, there's never been a better time to start watching. The series follows Maddie, who wakes up in purgatory and sets out to reclaim her life and reunite the spectral and living worlds.

School Spirits stars Peyton List, Kristian Ventura, Spencer MacPherson, Kiara Pichardo, Sarah Yarkin, Nick Pugliese, Rainbow Wedell, Josh Zuckerman, and Milo Manheim.

8. Avatar: The Last Airbender — Stream on Paramount+

Viacom

This nostalgic series — which follows the long-lost Avatar on his journey to master all four elements and save the world — is the perfect Paramount+ show to binge watch this weekend.

Avatar: The Last Airbender stars Dante Basco, Dee Bradley Baker, Jack De Sena, Jessie Flower, Mae Whitman, and Zach Tyler.

Tag us with your favorite Paramount+ shows on Instagram!

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Every Angel Number Has Its Own "Powerful" Meaning — Here's What To Know

If you keep seeing the same 3- or 4-number sequences everywhere – on clocks, receipts, or license plates – you might be noticing what people refer to as ‘angel numbers.’ These repeating digits are believed to carry spiritual messages that typically offer guidance, reassurance, or simply a little cosmic nudge in the right direction – just like astrology!

Whether you think it's pure coincidence or a sign from the universe, angel numbers have a fascinating way of showing up just when you need them the most.

Read on for everything you need to know about angel numbers — including their powerful meaning!

What are angel numbers?

Maria Radice / Dupe

Angel numbers are sequences of numbers that are commonly believed to carry spiritual messages from angels, divine beings, or the universe. You can often spot angel numbers on clocks, license plates, signs, or even dreams. Each angel number sequence is thought to have a specific meaning behind it, depending on the interpretation.

What are examples of angel numbers?

Natasha Torres / Dupe

Common examples of angel numbers include sequences like 111, 333, 444, and so on.

What are the common angel numbers and their meanings?

Alejandra Isunza / Dupe

  • 111: This sequence can signify new beginnings or assist in manifestation.
  • 222: This angel number can represent balance and harmony, as well as encourage you to trust the process.
  • 333: Often symbolizes divine protection, guidance, and encouragement from your angels – or whatever higher power you believe in.
  • 444: This angel number sequence can be a sign of stability, reassurance, and that your angels and the universe are supporting you in your endeavors.
  • 555: Indicates that major life changes and transformations are coming.
  • 666: This number serves as a reminder to focus on your inner balance, thoughts, and personal growth (it’s not always a negative number).
  • 777: Represents spiritual enlightenment, luck, and divine wisdom.
  • 888: This can be a sign of financial abundance, success, and karmic rewards. Score!
  • 999: Symbolizes the completion of a chapter and readiness for a new beginning.
  • 1111: This one can be seen as a powerful manifestation number signaling alignment with your purpose and dreams.

Why should I pay attention to angel numbers?

Shai / Dupe

Paying attention to angel numbers can be extra meaningful if you believe in spiritual guidance or personal growth. They can serve as gentle reminders to trust your intuition when making big decisions, meeting new people, or starting a new chapter in your life.

Even if you don’t whole-heartedly believe in spiritual signs, noticing patterns in things like angel numbers can help you stay present and reflect on where you are in life!

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