A dreamy combo of rich chocolate cake and donut-shop frosting you’ll want to eat by the spoonful.
These Whipped Vanilla Donut-Inspired Cupcakes are where classic chocolate cake meets donut-shop fun. Topped with a fluffy whipped frosting made with marshmallow fluff and donut glaze, they’re soft, sweet, and full of sweet flavor. This cupcake-donut mashup is the perfect anytime treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a fun mashup of cupcakes and donuts—what’s not to love?
- Uses a simple chocolate cake mix for an easy base.
- The whipped vanilla donut frosting is light, fluffy, and full of flavor.
- Marshmallow fluff + donut glaze = next-level texture and taste.
- Perfect for parties, birthdays, or weekend baking with kids.
- Easy to customize with donut holes, sprinkles, or fun toppers.
Ingredient Notes
- Chocolate Cake Mix – Any brand works, but go for one with rich flavor like devil’s food or triple chocolate for the best base.
- Buttermilk – Swapping this in for the water gives the cupcakes a bakery-style upgrade with extra moisture and a slight tang.
- Salted Butter – Adds depth to the frosting and balances the sweetness. Make sure it’s softened for easy whipping.
- Marshmallow Fluff – Gives the frosting that light, dreamy texture with a hint of gooey sweetness.
- Donut Glaze – A quick mix of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla that brings authentic donut-shop flavor to the frosting.
- Clear Vanilla Extract – Keeps the frosting extra white, but regular vanilla works just as well.
- Heavy Cream or Milk – Use as needed to get your perfect whipped consistency—start with 1 tablespoon and adjust from there.
- Munchkins or Donut Holes – For that fun finishing touch! Halve them before topping to keep everything balanced.
Before You Bake
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature and frost before serving.
Can I use unsalted butter in the frosting?
You can—just add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
No buttermilk on hand?
Make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.
Whipped Vanilla Donut-Inspired Cupcakes
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 cup buttermilk (substitute this in place of the water on the box)
Whipped Donut Frosting
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup marshmallow fluff
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar donut glaze (recipe below)
- 1 tsp clear vanilla extract (or regular vanilla)
- 1–2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (optional, for texture)
Quick Donut Glaze (for frosting)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Topping Ideas
- Dunkin’ Munchkins or store-bought donut holes, cut in half
- Optional: mini donut royal icing toppers or sprinkles for a playful finish
Instructions
Cupcakes
- Bake the cupcakes according to the directions on the box, swapping the water for buttermilk for an extra rich and bakery-style flavor. Let cool completely before frosting.
Whipped Donut Frosting
- Beat butter on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
- Add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the marshmallow fluff, vanilla, and 2 tbsp of the donut glaze.
- Beat on high for 2–3 minutes until light, whipped, and slightly glossy.
- Add cream or milk as needed for a fluffy, pipeable consistency.
Quick Donut Glaze (for frosting)
- Whisk everything together until smooth. Use 2 tablespoons of this glaze in the frosting above.
FAQ
What makes these donut-inspired cupcakes different from regular cupcakes?
The fluffy frosting is made with marshmallow fluff and donut glaze, giving it a true donut-shop taste.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! Vanilla, funfetti, or even red velvet would all pair well with the donut-style frosting.
Do I have to use donut holes on top?
Nope! They’re just a fun touch. You can skip them or swap in sprinkles, a mini cookie, or a drizzle of glaze.
How should I store the frosted cupcakes?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temp before serving for the fluffiest frosting texture.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes! Freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.
Sprinkle of Fun
Hosting a Sunday brunch? These Whipped Vanilla Donut-Inspired Cupcakes make the perfect sweet finish, but the fun doesn’t stop at the food!
Simple + Fun Brunch Menu
- Cheesy breakfast casserole
- Mini croissant sandwiches (ham & Swiss, egg salad, or turkey + pesto)
- Whipped Vanilla Donut-Inspired Cupcakes for a sweet, playful twist
Make It a Fun-Day Brunch
Add a few easy, interactive elements to make the vibe feel special and laid-back:
- Brunch Bingo – create cards with things like “refilled my mimosa,” “talked about the weather,” or “asked for the recipe”
- Build-Your-Own Mocktail Bar – juice, fruit, and sparkling water with cute cups and stirrers
- DIY Flower Station – set out small bud vases and let guests arrange their own mini bouquet
- Polaroid Photo Corner – props, a simple backdrop, and instant keepsakes
- Cozy Game Time – play a round of “We’re Not Really Strangers,” brunch edition, or do a light trivia game
End on a sweet note with cupcakes and keep it playful, low-pressure, and sprinkled with fun!
Grab More Treats
Love easy and sweet recipes like this? Download my Sprinkletastic ebook or grab my cookbook Just Add Sprinkles.
Looking for another fun cupcake idea? Check out this delicious creation: Strawberry Reese’s PB&J Cupcakes
Love cupcakes as much as we do? See all cupcake recipes here
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