Super Bowl Desserts Mini Cupcake Platter

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Mini Cupcake Platter
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 mini cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Colorful sprinkles; Mini chocolate chips; Red and blue colored sugar (for team colors)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can’t tell you how much joy these mini cupcakes have brought to my Super Bowl parties! Each cupcake bursts with flavor and is the perfect bite-sized treat to enjoy while cheering for my favorite team. I love how customizable they are too—you can change up the flavors, toppings, and decorations to match any team colors. These cupcakes are not only adorable but also incredibly fun to make, especially when the whole family pitches in. Trust me, they’ll be a hit during your next game day gathering!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:31:19.909Z

While preparing for the Super Bowl, I wanted to create a dessert that would stand out. After several attempts at different recipes, I settled on mini cupcakes because they not only look inviting but also allow for a variety of toppings and flavors. My favorite combination has to be chocolate with peanut butter frosting topped with colorful sprinkles.

Through trial and error, I discovered that using a light hand when mixing the batter keeps the cupcakes fluffy and moist. I also recommend letting them cool completely before frosting to ensure the icing doesn’t melt away. It’s these little details that make all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfectly portioned for easy serving and sharing
Customizable flavors and decorations for any taste
Light, fluffy texture that pairs wonderfully with vibrant toppings

      

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

When it comes to baking, the quality of your ingredients can make a huge difference in the final outcome. For these mini cupcakes, using fresh and high-quality ingredients like unsalted butter and real vanilla extract will enhance the flavor significantly. I recommend checking that your baking powder and baking soda are still active; old leavening agents can lead to dense cupcakes instead of the light, fluffy texture we strive for.

The choice of flour also plays a critical role. All-purpose flour is perfect for this recipe as it provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. If you need a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead, but ensure that it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to help with texture.

Frosting Tips and Variations

Getting the perfect peanut butter frosting is all about the right consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more heavy cream to achieve a smooth, spreadable texture. Conversely, if it’s too runny, a little extra powdered sugar will help thicken it. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some crushed peanuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.

If peanut butter isn't your thing, feel free to switch it out with other delicious frostings. Cream cheese or chocolate frosting can be great alternatives, each offering a unique flavor profile while still complementing the mini cupcakes beautifully. You can also infuse your frosting with additional flavors like almond extract or even a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate variant.

Ingredients

Mini Cupcake Batter

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

Peanut Butter Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decoration

Colorful sprinkles
Mini chocolate chips
Red and blue colored sugar (for team colors)

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini cupcake tray with paper liners.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Fill and Bake

Fill each mini cupcake liner about 2/3 full and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then add the cream and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each one with the peanut butter frosting.

Decorate

Top with your choice of sprinkles, chocolate chips, or colored sugar to match your team.

Enjoy Your Treats!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top before adding sprinkles.

Storing and Make-Ahead Options

These mini cupcakes can be made ahead of time, which makes them a great option for busy game days. Once baked and cooled, store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prepare them even earlier, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.

To thaw frozen cupcakes, simply leave them in the fridge overnight. Frost them once they're completely thawed for the best results. The frosting can also be made a day in advance; just store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick mix before using it to frost the cupcakes.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

One of the best things about these mini cupcakes is their versatility. You can change up the base flavor by incorporating different extracts or add-ins like lemon zest or mini chocolate chips directly into the batter. This allows you to create a variety of flavor profiles that can appeal to all your guests' preferences during your Super Bowl party.

For serving, consider arranging the cupcakes on a large platter or tiered stand to make them visually appealing. You can also provide various toppings and let your guests customize their cupcakes. Offering a selection of sprinkles, nuts, and small candies will add an interactive element to your dessert table, making it even more fun!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them on the day of your event for the freshest taste.

→ What other frosting flavors work well?

Chocolate, vanilla, and cream cheese frosting all pair wonderfully with these cupcakes. Feel free to get creative!

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, and the recipe will still work great!

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.