Easter Cupcake Recipe: Delicious Holiday Treats Made Easy

If Easter sneaks up on you faster than a toddler on a sugar high, you’re not alone. Between egg hunts, family dinners, and the general whirlwind of springtime chaos, planning a show-stopping dessert can feel like one more thing to juggle. But don’t worry—this Easter cupcake recipe is here to save the day (and your sanity).

These Easter Cupcakes are a delicious mix of rich chocolatey goodness and fluffy coconut frosting, crowned with playful toppings that’ll have your guests thinking you’ve been secretly moonlighting as a pastry chef. But here’s the real magic: they’re completely doable. No fancy tools. No endless hours in the kitchen. Just straight-up joy, wrapped in pastel-colored liners and topped with sweet little Easter eggs.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who usually lets the grocery store do the baking, this recipe is your golden ticket. It’s easy enough to whip up during naptime and impressive enough to earn you MVP status at any spring gathering. Plus, we’ve added a coconut twist that brings a tropical breeze to your dessert table—even if it’s still snowing where you are.

So grab your apron, toss on your favorite playlist, and let’s dive into this fun, fuss-free Easter cupcake recipe that’s bound to bring smiles (and second helpings).


Why You’ll Love This Easter Cupcake Recipe

  • It’s quick and beginner-friendly—no culinary degree required.
  • The combo of deep chocolate and coconut frosting is a flavor bomb in every bite.
  • Perfect for kids and adults alike, especially those with a sweet tooth and a love for festive fun.
  • These cupcakes double as table decor—adorable and edible!

Ingredients :

Chocolate Easter Cupcake Base:

  • 5 oz bittersweet chocolate (finely chopped)
  • 1/3 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup boiling water
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (shaken or whisked smooth)
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk (room temp)
  • 2 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Coconut Buttercream Frosting:

  • 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
  • 8 oz unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/4 tsp fine salt
  • 1/2 to 1 tsp coconut extract (taste and adjust)
  • 2 tbsp canned coconut milk

Toppings:

  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • Easter egg candies (your choice—mini chocolate, jelly beans, pastel-coated gems)

What You’ll Need: Your Easter Cupcake Toolkit

Before you get started, round up these essentials. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already:

  • 2 mixing bowls (one for wet, one for dry ingredients)
  • Heatproof bowl (for melting chocolate)
  • Whisk
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Muffin tin (12-cup standard size)
  • Cupcake liners
  • Rubber spatula
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Use a standard-sized spoon or scoop to ensure each portion of batter is evenly measured
  • Piping bag and star tip (optional, but makes frosting extra pretty)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sifter or fine mesh sieve (for powdered sugar)

Let’s Bake: Step-by-Step Easter Cupcake Recipe

Step 1: Get Everything Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place paper cups in the muffin tray and keep it ready for the batter. This is a great time to get your eggs to room temperature if you haven’t already—just place them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

A close-up overhead view of Dutch-process cocoa powder scattered on a white background, showcasing its rich texture and reddish-brown color.
Finely ground Dutch-process cocoa powder—perfect for baking rich chocolate desserts with deep flavor and smooth texture.

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped bittersweet chocolate with the Dutch-process cocoa. Pour the boiling water over it and let it sit for a minute. Then whisk until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly. (Don’t skip this step—this rich chocolate mix is what gives these Easter Cupcakes their irresistible flavor.)

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and baking soda. Make sure there are no lumps—this is where a little sifting magic can help.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the coconut milk (make sure it’s shaken or whisked smooth), melted coconut oil, eggs, egg yolk, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until smooth. Then gradually add the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to fold the mixture gently until just combined—no overmixing! Your batter should be thick, luscious, and slightly glossy.

Step 6: Fill and Bake

Scoop the batter evenly into your Easter Cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay!).

While they bake, your kitchen will smell like every chocolate lover’s dream—seriously, it’s better than any candle.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let the Easter Cupcakes sit in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is key—frosting warm cupcakes will turn that beautiful buttercream into a melty mess.

Make the Coconut Buttercream:

Step 8: Cream the Butter

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes on medium speed. This step is what gives your frosting that dreamy, cloud-like texture.

Step 9: Add the Sugar

Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Beat on low speed to avoid a sugar storm, then increase to medium-high once it starts to incorporate.

Step 10: Add Flavor and Smoothness

Mix in the salt, coconut extract, and coconut milk. Beat until the frosting is smooth, silky, and holds its shape. If it feels too thick, add a teaspoon more coconut milk. If too thin, add a bit more sugar.

Step 11: Frost Like a Pro

This detailed image captures the beauty and texture of high-quality Dutch-process cocoa powder, a baking essential known for its smooth, less acidic profile and deep chocolate flavor. Ideal for recipes like chocolate cupcakes, brownies, and rich cakes, the cocoa is shown in its raw form—mounded on a clean white background for striking contrast. With its fine granules and earthy tones, this ingredient adds both depth and richness to any dessert it touches.
Simple and elegant chocolate cupcake finished with a smooth swirl of coconut buttercream—perfect for minimalist dessert lovers.

Once the Easter Cupcakes are cool, use a piping bag with a star tip (or a good ol’ butter knife) to frost each one generously. Don’t stress if it’s not bakery-perfect—the charm of homemade cupcakes is in their little imperfections.

Step 12: Toppings for the Win

Moist Easter chocolate cupcake with creamy coconut frosting, toasted coconut flakes, and pastel mini candy eggs, with a bite revealing the rich, fudgy texture.
A decadent Easter chocolate cupcake topped with coconut buttercream, golden toasted coconut, and festive candy eggs—perfect for spring celebrations.

Sprinkle shredded sweetened coconut over the frosting like it’s Easter grass. Then gently press an Easter egg candy (or two!) into the top of each Easter Cupcake. Suddenly, they’re dressed for the holiday and ready to party.


Cooking Tips & Tricks

  • No Dutch-process cocoa? You can use regular cocoa, but Dutch-process gives a deeper, smoother chocolate flavor.
  • Cupcake too dense? Make sure not to overmix the batter. Stir until the ingredients just come together.
  • Want a whiter buttercream? Beat the butter a little longer at the beginning and use clear coconut extract.
  • Don’t skip the vinegar! It reacts with the baking soda to give these cupcakes their rise and tender crumb. You won’t taste it.
  • Batch-saving hack: Make the Easter Cupcake a day ahead and frost them the next day. They actually taste better after resting overnight.

And if your frosting ever feels like it’s misbehaving—too soft or too stiff—just give it a chill or a splash of coconut milk, You can see the Guide on How to Bake a Cupcake or Cake: Many Tips for Perfect Cupcakes or Cakes. You’ve got this!


A Little Family Story to Sweeten the Moment

The first time I made this Easter cupcake recipe, my youngest decided to “help” by adding jelly beans instead of chocolate eggs. The result? Surprisingly adorable… and weirdly tasty. Now it’s a tradition—we bake, decorate, and laugh through the sugar-fueled chaos together. It’s those little kitchen memories, the messy fingers and the coconut sprinkles stuck to everything, that make recipes like this so much more than food. They’re tiny, edible time capsules of joy.


Storage Tips to Keep Your Easter Cupcakes Fresh and Fabulous

You’ve baked a batch of these dreamy Easter cupcakes, and now you’re wondering—what’s the best way to keep them tasting just as good tomorrow (or even next week)? Good news: these cupcakes hold up beautifully with just a little TLC.

Short-Term Storage:

Planning to eat them in the next couple of days?

  • Store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature (around 68–72°F).
  • Keep them out of direct sunlight or any heat sources—coconut buttercream melts faster than your resolve on a cheat day, Toasted coconut adds a delicate crunch, while pastel mini eggs on top bring a festive touch. If you’re a fan of coconut flavors, our Coconut Cupcake Recipe is a must-try.
  • If your kitchen runs warm, it’s better to pop them in the fridge and bring them back to room temp before serving (about 30 minutes should do the trick).

Fridge-Friendly Tips:

  • When stored in the refrigerator, cupcakes stay fresh for up to 5 days.
  • To prevent the cake from drying out, loosely cover each cupcake with plastic wrap or place parchment paper between layers in a lidded container.

Freezer Storage:

Thinking of making extras to have on hand later?

  • Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a tray for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months.
  • To freeze frosted cupcakes, place them on a tray in the freezer uncovered for an hour. Once the buttercream is firm, wrap each one gently in plastic wrap and store in a container.
  • Let them sit in the fridge overnight or defrost on the counter for a few hours before serving.

Bonus tip: Hold off on adding the Easter egg toppings until you’re ready to serve. It keeps them looking fresh and festive!

Nutrition Breakdown: What’s Inside Every Delicious Bite?

Let’s face it—dessert is meant to be enjoyed. But for those who like to keep tabs on their nutritional intake, here’s what you’ll find in each of these Easter cupcakes.

These Easter Cupcakes offer a comforting blend of fats, carbs, and a touch of protein. Thanks to coconut milk and coconut oil, there’s a pleasant amount of healthy fats that give the Easter Cupcake its rich texture. The bittersweet chocolate brings in antioxidants, while the sugars provide that quick burst of joy we all crave now and then.

While not exactly a health food, these cupcakes avoid artificial ingredients and rely on real pantry staples. And hey, a little indulgence—especially when it brings joy to your table—is totally worth it.

If you’re managing your intake, enjoy one with a glass of water or a light salad lunch, and you’ll have room to savor this sweet treat without tipping the balance.

Nutritional Table (Per Cupcake, based on 12 servings):

NutrientAmount per Serving
Serving Size1 cupcake
Calories315 kcal
Total Fat17 g
Saturated Fat11 g
Unsaturated Fat5 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol55 mg
Sodium125 mg
Carbohydrates39 g
Fiber2 g
Sugar28 g
Protein3 g
Calcium35 mg
Iron1.7 mg
Potassium110 mg
Vitamin A310 IU
Vitamin C0 mg
Vitamin D0.2 mcg

Note: Values are approximate and may vary slightly depending on exact ingredients and brands used.


Timing Is Everything: Easter Cupcake Cooking Time at a Glance

You know how precious every minute is—especially when you’re trying to bake in between school pickups, laundry loads, or that one Zoom call that could’ve been an email. That’s why this Easter cupcake recipe fits beautifully into even the busiest schedules.

Whether you’re planning ahead for Sunday brunch or whipping up a sweet surprise the night before, here’s a quick breakdown of the time commitment (spoiler: it’s totally manageable).

Cooking Time Table

TaskTime Required
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time18–20 minutes
Cooling Time30 minutes
Frosting Time15 minutes
Chilling Time (optional)20 minutes (for firmer buttercream)
Decorating Time10 minutes
Total TimeAbout 1 hour 30 minutes

Tip: You can prep the frosting a day in advance and refrigerate it to save time the day-of. Just let it soften slightly before piping.

Yield and Serving Info

Yield TypeAmount
Cupcakes per Batch12 standard-sized cupcakes
Serving Size1 cupcake
Batch Doubles Easily?Yes—just double the ingredients and bake in two muffin tins.

Cuisine

Cuisine TypeDetails
CuisineAmerican
Inspired ByClassic American chocolate cupcakes with a tropical coconut twist

And there you have it—your kitchen’s about to smell like pure joy and chocolate dreams. With their tender crumb, coconut-kissed frosting, and playful candy toppers, these cupcakes are more than just a dessert—they’re a little celebration in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a big Easter brunch or just baking for fun with the kids, this Easter cupcake recipe brings everyone together with minimal fuss and maximum delight.

They’re festive, flavorful, and flexible enough to suit your style—go classic with a pastel swirl or get creative with a sprinkle explosion. No matter how you decorate them, they’ll be the sweet centerpiece your Easter table deserves. And the best part? You didn’t need a full day or a pastry degree to make them.

So the next time you’re looking for something that’s both charming and doable, save this Easter cupcake recipe—it just might become your new spring tradition.

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