Snow Days Coconut Almond Cupcakes
January 2, 2026
Soft almond cupcakes with creamy coconut frosting!
Snow days have a funny way of making everything feel slower and sweeter. When plans get canceled and the house is extra quiet, baking something simple just feels right. These Snow Days Coconut Almond Cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and topped with a creamy coconut frosting that feels like a little treat for staying in. They start with a cake mix, but the almond and coconut combo gives them that bakery-style flavor without much effort. Perfect for cold afternoons, warm drinks, and enjoying something sweet just because you can.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The almond and coconut combo feels wintery without being heavy
- Pudding mix keeps the cupcakes extra soft and bakery-style
- Cream cheese frosting adds just the right balance to the sweetness
- Starts with a cake mix but tastes fully dressed up
- Perfect for snow days, school closings, or cozy afternoons at home
Ingredient Notes
- Almond cake mix: any boxed almond cake mix works. Substituting buttermilk for water adds richness and keeps the cupcakes soft.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: use the dry mix straight from the box. It gives the cupcakes a bakery-style texture and helps lock in moisture.
- Butter + cream cheese: both should be fully softened so the frosting blends smoothly and stays fluffy.
- Coconut extract: start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste. A little goes a long way.
- Shredded coconut: sweetened coconut adds the best flavor. Chop it finer if you prefer a softer texture in the frosting.
Quick Prep Notes
Do I really need to use buttermilk instead of water?
You don’t have to, but it makes a difference. Buttermilk adds richness and helps the cupcakes stay soft and tender.
Should the pudding mix be prepared first?
No. Add the dry pudding mix directly to the batter. This is what gives the cupcakes that bakery-style texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. The cupcakes can be baked a day ahead and stored unfrosted at room temperature. Frosted cupcakes should be refrigerated and brought to room temperature before serving.
Snow Days Coconut Almond Cupcakes
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 box almond cake mix (plus box ingredients, using buttermilk instead of water)
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix (dry)
Frosting & Topping
- ½ cup salted butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ to 1 teaspoon coconut extract, to taste
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
- Extra coconut for topping, optional
Optional
- Winter-themed cupcake liners
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F and line two cupcake pans with liners.
- In a large bowl, prepare the almond cake mix according to the package directions, substituting buttermilk for the water. Add the dry pudding mix and beat until smooth and fully combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool briefly in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar gradually, mixing well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla, coconut extract, and shredded coconut until fluffy.
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost generously. Finish with a sprinkle of coconut if you like.
- Store covered in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different cake mix?
A vanilla or white cake mix works if needed, but the almond flavor really makes these special.
How strong is the coconut flavor?
It’s light and balanced. You can adjust the coconut extract to make it more subtle or more noticeable.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
The unfrosted cupcakes freeze well for up to two months. Thaw completely before frosting.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, once frosted, because of the cream cheese frosting.
Can I toast the coconut on top?
Yes. Toast it lightly for extra flavor, then let it cool completely before topping the cupcakes.
Sprinkle of Fun
Turn these cupcakes into a Snow Day Treat Break. Bake them in the afternoon when the day feels extra quiet, then enjoy one with a warm drink in the evening. Put on a winter movie, wrap up in a blanket, and let dessert be the highlight that breaks up a cold, cozy day.
get access to my weekly recipe updates!
