Filled cupcakes are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a little surprise in every bite. Whether you call them stuffed cupcakes or filled cupcakes, the concept is the same: a soft, fluffy cupcake hiding a delicious secret center just waiting to be discovered. That first bite is always the best moment!
Each of these filled cupcake recipes is unique, bold, and totally fun to make, so whether you're a beginner or a seasoned baker, you're going to enjoy every step of the process. I’m sharing the recipes made with carefully tested techniques and ingredients that deliver reliable results in a home kitchen.
I first posted this recipe collection on the blog in 2024. Cupcakes offer endless dessert possibilities, and I’ve been updating this article regularly with new recipes to keep my readers inspired!
Katalin's key take on how to fill cupcakes
Forget the grocery store and bakery cupcakes! I have 30+ cupcake recipes on this blog; many are filled, and I even wrote a guide on how to fill cupcakes.
Filling cupcakes is one of the easiest ways to take your baking to the next level. The most popular tools are an apple corer, a small knife, or a piping bag. Each one creates a small cavity in the center of the cupcake that you can pack with whatever filling your heart desires. If you don't have any of those on hand, a spoon, a measuring spoon, or even your fingers work just as well, depending on the type of filling you're using.
When it comes to fillings, the options are truly endless. Chocolate ganache, Nutella, lemon curd, caramel, jam, fresh berries, cream cheese frosting, and nut butters are all delicious. Thicker fillings tend to work best since they keep the cupcake from getting soggy, but even a runnier filling like lemon curd can work perfectly when handled right.
Keep a few simple rules in mind. Always wait until your cupcakes are completely cooled, or at least at room temperature, before filling them. Adding filling to a warm cupcake can cause it to fall apart or make the filling melt and runny. Aim for about 1 to 2 tablespoons of filling per cupcake for a generous center without overflow. Get that right, and every single bite will have that perfect, delicious surprise.
Besides filling, choosing the right frosting for your cupcakes is part science, part art. I've collected 25+ delicious cupcake frosting ideas that I recommend you check.
Finally, don't forget how to store and freeze cupcakes properly.
Jump to:
- Katalin's key take on how to fill cupcakes
- Best Filled Cupcake
- 1. White Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes
- 2. Mango cupcakes
- 3. Chocolate raspberry cupcakes
- 4. Nutella Cupcakes
- 5. Biscoff Cupcakes
- 6. Strawberry Filled Cupcakes
- 7. Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes
- 8. Christmas Tree Cupcakes
- 9. Apple Pie Cupcakes
- 10. Lemon Poppy Seed Cupcakes
- 11. Germany Chocolate Cupcakes
- 12. Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
- 13. Boston Cream Cupcakes
- 14. Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Cupcakes
- 15. Peanut Butter Filled Cupcake
- 16. Lamington Cupcakes
- 17. Dark Chocolate Raspberry Curd Filled Cupcake
- 18. Cherry Cupcakes
- 19. Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
- 20. Funfetti Cream Pie Filled Cupcake
- 21. Homemade Hostess Cupcakes
- 22. Dulce De Leche Mocha Cupcakes
- 23. Blueberry Filled Cupcakes
- 24. White Chocolate Strawberry Filled Cupcakes
- 25. Chocolate Cookie Dough Stuffed Cupcakes
- 30. Almond Wedding Cake Cupcakes with Raspberry Filling
- 31. Pecan Pie Filled Cupcake
- 32. Coconut Blackberry Filled Cupcake
- 33. Pinata Cupcakes
- 34. Cranberry Vanilla Cupcakes
- 35. Banana Caramel Cupcakes
- 36. Reeses Peanut Butter Filled Cupcake
- 37. Key Lime Pie Cupcakes
- 38. Banana Pudding Cupcakes
- 39. Vanilla Cupcakes With Ganache Filling and Oreo Frosting
- 40. Whiskey Maple Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes
- 41. Passionfruit Martini Cupcakes
- How long do filled cupcakes last?
- Can you freeze filled cupcakes?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best Filled Cupcake
1. White Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes
I love raspberries and white chocolate together! It’s a flavor combination made in heaven. Sweet yet tart raspberries pair beautifully with white chocolate, and the textures of the moist sponge, juicy filling, and silky frosting come together in an irresistible way. Top each cupcake with fresh raspberries. This will undoubtedly become one of your favorite raspberry desserts.
2. Mango cupcakes
Who doesn’t love a bit of tropical flair? Mango cupcakes have a fluffy sponge cupcake base, silky Swiss meringue buttercream frosting, and creamy mango curd filling. They are perfect for summer gatherings or simply when you want a taste of sunshine. Making homemade mango curd might seem daunting, but I promise it is much easier than you might think!
3. Chocolate raspberry cupcakes
Perfectly moist, deeply chocolatey cupcakes, full of intense flavor, are decadent with a raspberry filling. The cupcake base, raspberry filling, and creamy raspberry frosting come together easily.
4. Nutella Cupcakes
My Nutella cupcakes are totally sinful. They are filled with creamy, rich Nutella that pairs perfectly with the sweet chocolate cake made with oil, which adds moisture. Finally, Nutella frosting tops the beautiful cupcake, making this stuffed cupcake a dessert lover's dream.
5. Biscoff Cupcakes
If you love cookie butter, then you will adore these Biscoff cupcakes. These moist, caramel-flavored cupcakes are stuffed with Biscoff cream and topped with perfect Biscoff buttercream. These cupcakes look incredible and have a rich flavor that you will be obsessed with.
6. Strawberry Filled Cupcakes
I adore these light and fluffy strawberry-filled cupcakes, one of my favorite strawberry desserts. The sweet vanilla mini cake is filled with fresh strawberry jam, and you will go crazy for the airy whipped cream frosting. It really makes this stuffed cupcake completely flawless!
7. Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes
There is nothing quite as delicious as chocolate and caramel paired together, my favorite caramel dessert. My caramel filled cupcakes are the epitome of a perfect dessert. They are decadent, sweet, and individually sized, which makes them nice and easy to eat! In conclusion, this may be your favorite filled cupcake recipe on this entire list.
8. Christmas Tree Cupcakes
These Christmas tree cupcakes will impress everyone around the Christmas table as they look as good as they taste! The recipe is easy, fun, and delicious, with a tender, moist chocolate cupcake and creamy buttercream frosting. It's the perfect festive cupcake to please all your family and friends!
9. Apple Pie Cupcakes
These easy-filled cupcakes are perfect for fall. The brown sugar cupcakes are stuffed with apple pie filling and finished with my favorite whipped mascarpone frosting made of mascarpone and heavy cream. The result is a cupcake-and-pie combo! In conclusion, you will have fun making and eating these filled cupcakes, and you can try a few more classic American Desserts that are just as good as apple pie.
10. Lemon Poppy Seed Cupcakes
I love these easy lemon-filled cupcakes that are light, bright, and bold. The lemon curd filling is creamy and sweet. It adds an intense pop of flavor to an already tasty cake.
11. Germany Chocolate Cupcakes
If you're searching for the ultimate German chocolate cupcakes recipe, this one ticks all the boxes! It's a handheld version of the classic cake, featuring moist chocolate cupcake sponges topped with decadent chocolate buttercream frosting and a rich pecan coconut frosting. It's an irresistible treat for any occasion!
12. Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
These fruity strawberry shortcake cupcakes are a portable twist on the classic favorite dessert! Featuring moist vanilla cake, luscious Chantilly whipped cream topping, and freshly chopped strawberries, they're the perfect sweet finish to a meal or to enjoy as a mid-day treat!
13. Boston Cream Cupcakes
The vanilla cream filling of these cupcakes is to die for. It goes so well with the chocolate ganache frosting and moist vanilla cake. If you love Boston cream cakes, then you will obsess over these cupcakes!
14. Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Cupcakes
Your favorite chocolate cupcake just got a whole lot better! Stuffing chocolate cupcakes with creamy, rich cheesecake is the best plan ever. Everyone will adore these rich, sweet little stuffed cakes, and you can find more delicious chocolate dessert recipes here!
15. Peanut Butter Filled Cupcake
Chocolate-filled cupcakes with peanut butter are the perfect mix of sweet and salty. These cakes are moist, tender, and totally delicious. Finally, add a peanut butter and chocolate drizzle to make the cupcakes even more irresistible. These are going to become your favorite chocolate cupcakes ever.
16. Lamington Cupcakes
This classic Australian treat is one you will adore. The soft vanilla cupcakes are filled with jam, then covered in chocolate glaze and rolled in shredded coconut. If you are looking for a new cupcake recipe to try, this is the one to pick!
17. Dark Chocolate Raspberry Curd Filled Cupcake
These dense chocolate-filled cupcakes are extremely rich. I love the bright raspberry curd filling that cuts through the intense taste of the chocolate. Simple vanilla buttercream is a great frosting choice for these pretty filled cupcakes.
18. Cherry Cupcakes
Soft vanilla cake with a secret cherry filling is what you'll get when you try making these cherry cupcakes. Even the frosting is made with cherries! Make these cupcakes in the spring or summer when cherries are in season.
19. Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
Fudge chocolate cupcakes are stuffed with strawberries and then topped with an intense fudge frosting. I love the fresh heart cutout toppers that will make these cupcakes look equally delicious and impressive. You only need a few basic ingredients like baking soda, cocoa powder, eggs, and butter to make these tasty treats!
20. Funfetti Cream Pie Filled Cupcake
Transform basic funfetti cupcakes into a fancy dessert with this easy cupcake recipe. First, bake the airy, sprinkle-filled cake to perfection. Next, generously fill it with luscious vanilla mousse. With this combination of flavors and textures, these colorful filled cupcakes are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
21. Homemade Hostess Cupcakes
If you love Hostess chocolate cupcakes, then this cream-filled chocolate cupcakes recipe is for you! These cupcakes are filled with a white, airy cream that pairs well with the rich chocolate. You will find that these yummy cupcakes taste just like Hostess cakes, but even better!
22. Dulce De Leche Mocha Cupcakes
First, the dulce de leche filling in these mocha cupcakes is truly divine. In addition, the mocha Swiss meringue buttercream, with its balanced sweetness, adds an extra layer of sophistication to this delectable treat. Altogether, this filled cupcake recipe is a testament to perfect flavor harmony, making it a truly exceptional dessert.
23. Blueberry Filled Cupcakes
Beautiful white cupcakes are filled with a gorgeous blueberry filling that makes a stunning contrast. The cupcakes are topped with tangy, sweet crème fraîche frosting. This stuffed cupcake recipe is one you need to try!
24. White Chocolate Strawberry Filled Cupcakes
White chocolate and strawberries are a great combination that everyone always loves. These cupcakes not only showcase vanilla's great flavor but also tantalize the taste buds with the freshness of ripe strawberries.
25. Chocolate Cookie Dough Stuffed Cupcakes
When you can't decide between cookies and cupcakes, make this recipe! To make these filled cupcakes, stuff edible cookie dough into chocolate cupcakes, then top with vanilla bean buttercream. The result is seriously intense, filled chocolate cupcakes that will make you go crazy!
30. Almond Wedding Cake Cupcakes with Raspberry Filling
The almond cake part of these cupcakes is extremely delicious, especially when paired with a raspberry filling. The tasty cupcakes are perfectly white, which makes them an ideal wedding dessert!
31. Pecan Pie Filled Cupcake
Combine pecan pie and cupcakes to create a perfect individual dessert that will basically make you swoon. The brown sugar, vanilla extract cupcake is unique and exciting, and the pecan pie filling is absolutely amazing.
32. Coconut Blackberry Filled Cupcake
The two types of buttercream frosting on these coconut cupcakes look and taste incredible. Also, pipe fresh blackberry jam into each fluffy cupcake for a delicious surprise!
33. Pinata Cupcakes
Made with vanilla cake batter, these cupcakes are light and springy, topped with delicious vanilla frosting. The sprinkle filling is easy to customize with color for any occasion, and we will show you how to use your favorite colors to add a pretty swirl to the frosting!
34. Cranberry Vanilla Cupcakes
I love making these cupcakes in the winter when cranberries are in season. And I know you will, too. The silky white chocolate frosting and tart cranberry filling are a great combination. In addition, the red filling and white cupcakes look stunning.
35. Banana Caramel Cupcakes
Dense banana cake is filled with homemade caramel sauce, making a rich cupcake you will adore. Also, the caramel cream cheese and toffee sprinkles complete these decadent cupcakes and make them irresistible. I love making these cupcakes in the winter when I need a satisfying sweet treat.
36. Reeses Peanut Butter Filled Cupcake
Chocolate and peanut butter are a match that is made in heaven. If you love Reese's peanut butter cups, then you will go crazy for these cupcakes. Stuffed into the cupcake are peanut butter cups, ensuring you get candy in every bite!
37. Key Lime Pie Cupcakes
All the best bits of a tasty key lime pie in cupcake form! This recipe has a soft, airy cupcake base filled with delicious key lime curd. Finally, it’s topped with a fluffy, silky frosting. Delicious!
38. Banana Pudding Cupcakes
These banana pudding cupcakes are so decadent! They are made with a moist, tender banana cupcake base, then filled with banana pudding. So far, so good! Finally, frost them with stabilized whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
39. Vanilla Cupcakes With Ganache Filling and Oreo Frosting
I love anything with Oreos in it. And if you’re an Oreo lover, too, try these filled cupcakes! A moist vanilla cupcake is filled with silky smooth chocolate ganache mixed with Oreo cookies and topped with the most delicious Oreo buttercream frosting.
40. Whiskey Maple Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes
Using a whiskey maple buttercream frosting on top of chocolate ganache-filled chocolate cupcakes might seem like too much of a good thing, but trust me, it is heaven! These are a truly decadent treat that will put all other chocolate cupcakes to shame.
41. Passionfruit Martini Cupcakes
I’ll bet you won’t have tasted anything like this before! It might not suit kids, but you don’t always have to share cupcakes with them. Delicious passionfruit martini cupcakes have a vodka passion fruit curd filling and vodka buttercream frosting. Definitely bake them as soon as you can.
How long do filled cupcakes last?
It depends on the filling and frosting. Plain buttercream cupcakes last 2–3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. Cupcakes filled or frosted with cream cheese, whipped cream, pastry cream, or fresh fruit need to be refrigerated and will last 2-3 days.
Always bring refrigerated cupcakes back to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can you freeze filled cupcakes?
Yes, but it depends on the filling.
The best approach is to freeze them unfrosted. Once fully cooled and filled, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. When you're ready to serve them, let them thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours before adding your frosting.
Keep in mind that fillings like jam, ganache, and buttercream freeze beautifully, while custard, fresh fruits, or cream-based fillings can change in texture after freezing, so those are best enjoyed fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will filled cupcakes get soggy?
Filled cupcakes can get soggy, but only if the filling is too wet or if they sit too long before being eaten. The key is choosing the right filling. Thicker fillings like ganache or Nutella won't affect the cupcake base's texture. Thinner, more liquid fillings like a very loose curd or fresh berries can seep into the crumb over time and soften it. To keep your filled cupcakes fresh and firm, fill them as close to serving time as possible, don't overfill them, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge if your filling requires it.
Can you fill cupcakes before baking?
Yes, you can fill cupcakes before baking, and it's a great technique for certain types of fillings. To do it, simply fill your cupcake liners halfway with batter, add a small spoonful of filling in the center, then cover it with a little more batter. This works especially well for fillings that can handle the oven's heat, like Nutella, peanut butter, cream cheese, fruit jam, or a chunk of chocolate. The filling melts slightly and gets gooey during baking, creating an incredible molten center.
That said, not all fillings are oven-friendly. Delicate fillings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or anything custard-based should always be added after baking since they won't survive the heat. For those, it's best to bake your cupcakes first, let them cool completely, and then fill them using your preferred method. Both approaches have their place depending on what you're making, so it really just comes down to the filling you choose.
What to fill cupcakes with for a gender reveal?
Gender reveal cupcakes are such a fun idea. The most popular filling is colored buttercream (tinted pink for a girl or blue for a boy) piped into the center so guests see the color when they take a bite. It's simple, delicious, and always gets a great reaction.
Beyond buttercream, you can also use colored sprinkles and candy-coated chocolates tucked into the center for a confetti-style reveal. If you want to go the extra mile, a pink or blue fruit curd like raspberry or blueberry adds beautiful natural color and delicious flavor. Whatever you choose, make sure the outside of the cupcake gives nothing away. Keep the batter, frosting, and decorations neutral so the color.
Cristy Bushatz
thanks for cupcakes recipe and love to cook