If you are looking for a dessert recipe that is as visually striking as it is delicious, these mango strawberry sunset cupcakes are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Inspired by the warm hues of a summer sunset, this dessert combines the tropical sweetness of mango with the bright, fruity flavor of strawberries in a cupcake that tastes just as good as it looks. Soft, moist mango-infused cake forms the base, a hidden strawberry center adds surprise and contrast, and a beautifully swirled tri-color frosting crowns each cupcake like a painted sky at dusk.
What makes this mango strawberry sunset cupcakes dessert recipe so special is the harmony of flavors and textures. Mango brings a mellow, sun-ripened sweetness that feels rich but never heavy, while strawberries add a refreshing, slightly tart note that keeps each bite balanced. Together, they create a cupcake that feels celebratory, playful, and elegant all at once—perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, baby showers, or anytime you want a dessert that feels extra special.
Beyond their beauty, these cupcakes are surprisingly approachable to make. Each step is simple, and the dramatic look comes from clever frosting techniques rather than complicated baking skills. Whether you are a seasoned baker or trying a show-stopping dessert recipe for the first time, these cupcakes offer impressive results with manageable effort.
Why You’ll Love This Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes Recipe
This dessert recipe checks all the boxes: flavor, texture, appearance, and versatility. The cupcake crumb is tender and moist thanks to the mango purée, while the strawberry jam filling provides a burst of fruity sweetness in the center. The frosting is creamy, smooth, and lightly flavored with real fruit purées, creating a natural color gradient that resembles a glowing sunset.
These cupcakes also adapt easily to different occasions. Serve them as a refined plated dessert, display them as the centerpiece of a dessert table, or package them individually as thoughtful homemade gifts. No matter how you serve them, they leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients
Cupcake Batter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup mango purée (fresh or canned)
Filling
- ¼ cup strawberry jam
Frosting
2 tbsp strawberry purée
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp mango purée
Every ingredient in this mango strawberry sunset cupcakes dessert recipe plays a role in creating both flavor and structure.
- All-purpose flour provides a soft but stable base for the cupcakes.
- Baking powder ensures a light rise and fluffy texture.
- Unsalted butter adds richness and keeps both cake and frosting smooth.
- Granulated sugar sweetens the batter without overpowering the fruit.
- Eggs give structure and moisture.
- Milk helps create a tender crumb.
- Mango purée infuses the cupcakes and frosting with tropical flavor and natural color.
- Strawberry jam and purée bring brightness, sweetness, and contrast.
- Powdered sugar and cream create a silky, pipeable frosting perfect for swirls.
Using high-quality fruit purées—especially fresh mango and strawberries when available—elevates the entire dessert.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This ensures even baking and easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening, helping the cupcakes rise evenly.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which contributes to a soft cupcake texture.
4. Add Eggs and Flavor
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mixing gradually ensures a smooth, well-emulsified batter.
5. Incorporate Milk and Mango Purée
Add the milk and mango purée, mixing until fully combined. The batter will be creamy and lightly golden, with a subtle fruity aroma.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cupcakes tender.
7. Bake
Fill cupcake liners about three-quarters full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely before filling or frosting.
Filling the Cupcakes With Strawberry Flavor
Once cooled, remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake using a knife or piping tip. Spoon in strawberry jam to create a hidden fruity core that adds moisture and surprise to every bite.
Creating the Sunset Swirl Frosting
Beat softened butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in vanilla and cream until light and fluffy. Divide the frosting into three bowls: leave one plain, mix mango purée into the second, and strawberry purée into the third.
Place the three frostings side by side into one piping bag fitted with a decorative tip. As you pipe, the colors naturally blend, forming a stunning sunset swirl without mixing the frosting beforehand.
Decorating and Serving
Pipe generous swirls onto each cupcake, letting the colors fade naturally into one another. For extra flair, garnish with a small slice of fresh mango or strawberry.
Serve these cupcakes at room temperature to fully enjoy the flavors and texture. They pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or fresh fruit beverages.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store finished cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Bring them to room temperature before serving. Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to two months and decorated fresh when needed.
