Mountain Dew Cupcakes: A Zesty, Fizzy Treat You’ll Love

Get ready to add a burst of vibrant flavor to your baking repertoire! Today, we’re diving into a fun, innovative recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds: Mountain Dew Cupcakes. Forget everything you thought you knew about traditional cupcakes, because these delightful treats are infused with the unmistakable citrusy zing and subtle fizz of Mountain Dew soda. It’s a truly unique combination that transforms an everyday dessert into something extraordinary.

The Unique Charm of Mountain Dew Cupcakes

The idea of using soda in baking might seem unconventional, but it’s a fantastic secret ingredient that can elevate your desserts. For these Mountain Dew Cupcakes, the soda does more than just add a unique flavor profile; it contributes to the texture, creating a light and airy crumb that’s simply irresistible. The bright, lemon-lime notes of Mountain Dew perfectly cut through the sweetness of the cake and frosting, offering a refreshing balance that will surprise and delight anyone who tries them.

This recipe isn’t just about novelty; it’s about crafting a truly delicious dessert that stands out. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a creative potluck contribution, or simply want to treat yourself to something new, these Mountain Dew Cupcakes are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers, and the vibrant green and yellow frosting (inspired by the iconic soda can!) adds an extra layer of fun and visual appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Mountain Dew Cupcake Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The distinct citrus notes of Mountain Dew shine through, offering a zesty, refreshing taste.
• Light and Fluffy Texture: The soda helps create an exceptionally tender and moist cupcake.
• Visually Stunning: With the iconic green and yellow frosting, these cupcakes are as eye-catching as they are delicious.
• Easy to Make: Despite their unique nature, the recipe is straightforward and uses common baking ingredients.
• Conversation Starter: These cupcakes are sure to spark curiosity and compliments from guests!

Speaking of soda, do you call it soda or pop where you’re from? Here in the Pacific Northwest, “soda” is the common term. I’ve often received puzzled looks while traveling when I refer to it as soda, only to be reminded that in other regions, it’s firmly known as “pop.” Regardless of what you call it, this carbonated beverage truly works wonders in baking, adding both flavor and a unique lightness that you won’t get from just water or milk.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Mountain Dew Cupcakes

Before we embark on this baking adventure, let’s ensure you have all the necessary components for both the zesty cupcakes and the vibrant frosting. Using room temperature ingredients for the cupcakes is crucial for achieving a smooth, well-emulsified batter and an even texture.

Ingredients for the Zesty Mountain Dew Cupcakes

• 1 C (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 C (400g) granulated white sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 4 C (480g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• 1 can (12 oz / 355ml) Mountain Dew Soda

Crafting the Vibrant Mountain Dew Frosting

• 1 C (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 C (480g) confectioners’ (powdered) sugar
• 4 tablespoon Mountain Dew Soda, plus more if needed
• Green and yellow gel food coloring

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Mountain Dew Cupcakes

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect batch of Mountain Dew cupcakes. Precision and patience are key for achieving that desirable light and fluffy texture, combined with the signature zesty flavor.

Preparing the Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two standard 12-cup muffin tins with paper cupcake liners. This recipe typically yields about 24 cupcakes, so you may need a third tin or to bake in batches.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and prevents lumps, ensuring a smooth batter. Set this aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 3-5 minutes. This step is vital for incorporating air into the batter, contributing to the cupcakes’ light texture.
4. Add Eggs Gradually: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition for about one minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly combined.
5. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted flour mixture and the Mountain Dew soda to the butter mixture, alternating between the two. Start and end with the flour. A good rhythm is to add 1 cup of flour, blend until just combined, then add ¼ cup of Mountain Dew, blend, and repeat until all ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter; mix only until the ingredients are just combined to avoid tough cupcakes.
6. Stir in Vanilla: Finally, add the vanilla extract to the batter and blend briefly until just combined.
7. Fill Cupcake Liners: Using a large ice cream scoop or a spoon, fill each paper-lined cupcake tin about two-thirds full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.

Baking to Perfection

8. Bake: Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
9. Check for Doneness: The cupcakes are done when an inserted toothpick into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Once baked, remove the cupcake tins from the oven and let them cool in the tins for about 10 minutes. This allows them to set slightly before handling.
11. Transfer to Wire Rack: After 10 minutes, carefully remove the cupcakes from the tins and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Ensure they are fully cooled before frosting; otherwise, your frosting will melt.

Whipping Up the Signature Mountain Dew Frosting

The frosting is where these cupcakes truly get their signature Mountain Dew flair, not just in flavor but also in their vibrant, eye-catching appearance.

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and confectioners’ powdered sugar using an electric mixer. Start on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud, then increase to medium-high. Beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy.
2. Add Mountain Dew: If the frosting seems too thick or crumbly, gradually add the Mountain Dew soda, one tablespoon at a time, blending until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
3. Test Consistency: Test the frosting to ensure it can form and hold a stiff peak. If it’s too soft, add more powdered sugar (½ C at a time) and continue beating until the desired consistency is achieved. If it’s too stiff, add a tiny bit more Mountain Dew or milk, a teaspoon at a time.
4. Color the Frosting: Divide the frosting equally into two separate bowls. In the first bowl, add several drops of yellow gel food coloring and mix well until a consistent yellow shade is achieved. In the second bowl, add several drops of green gel food coloring and mix well until it’s a vibrant green.
5. Prepare Pastry Bag for Two-Tone Frosting: Scoop the green frosting into one side of a pastry bag fitted with a 1M or large round frosting tip (like a Wilton 1A or a 13-inch round tip). Then, carefully scoop the yellow frosting into the other side of the same pastry bag. Twist the open end of the pastry bag to push the frosting towards the tip. Before frosting your cupcakes, do a test swirl on a plate to ensure both green and yellow frosting colors are coming out together, creating a beautiful two-tone effect.
6. Frost Cupcakes: Frost each completely cooled cupcake, starting from the outside edge and spiraling inward towards the center.
7. Garnish: For an extra touch of whimsy, garnish each cupcake with a small, matching straw or a tiny slice of lime.

Tips for the Perfect Mountain Dew Cupcakes

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to emulsify better, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and a lighter texture.
• Do Not Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, dense cupcakes. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Measure Flour Correctly: For accurate measurement, spoon flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge. Don’t scoop directly from the bag, as this compacts the flour and results in too much.
• Gel Food Coloring is Best: For vibrant colors without altering the frosting consistency, use gel food coloring instead of liquid drops.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add more Mountain Dew (or milk) a teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar (a tablespoon at a time) until it reaches the desired stiff peak consistency.
• Cool Completely: Frosting warm cupcakes is a recipe for disaster. Ensure your cupcakes are entirely cool before applying frosting.

Mountain Dew Cupcake Variations and Customizations

While the classic Mountain Dew Cupcake is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with variations!

• Other Soda Flavors: Experiment with other citrus sodas like Sprite or 7-Up for a similar bright flavor profile, or try Orange Crush for a creamsicle-like cupcake. Root beer or Dr. Pepper could lead to interesting spiced or cherry-flavored cupcakes!
• Zest it Up: Add a teaspoon of fresh lime or lemon zest to the cupcake batter for an extra punch of citrus flavor.
• Extract Boost: Enhance the flavor with a few drops of lemon or lime extract in either the batter or the frosting.
• Garnish Galore: Beyond the straw, consider topping with green or yellow sprinkles, candied lemon/lime peels, or a light dusting of lime zest for an elegant finish.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: For a slightly tangier and richer frosting, swap half of the butter in the frosting recipe for cream cheese.
• Filling Fun: Core out a small center from each cupcake and fill it with lime curd or a dollop of lemon pie filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Mountain Dew Cupcakes

Q: Can I use diet Mountain Dew for this recipe?

A: While you can technically use diet Mountain Dew, be aware that the artificial sweeteners might react differently during baking, and the flavor profile might not be as robust or authentic. The sugar in regular Mountain Dew contributes to the texture and moisture of the cupcakes.

Q: Why add soda to cupcakes? What does it do?

A: Soda serves multiple purposes in baking. Firstly, it adds a unique flavor dimension. Secondly, the carbonation helps to create a light and airy texture in the cake. Thirdly, the acids in some sodas can react with baking soda or baking powder, contributing to a better rise.

Q: How far in advance can I make these cupcakes?

A: These cupcakes are best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If they are frosted with a butter-based frosting, they can also be refrigerated, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make these Mountain Dew cupcakes gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Follow the rest of the recipe as directed. Baking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on them.

Q: What kind of frosting tip should I use for the two-tone effect?

A: A large star tip (like Wilton 1M) or a large round tip (like Wilton 1A or a 13-inch round tip) works wonderfully for creating the swirled, two-tone effect. The larger the tip, the more pronounced the colors will be.

Conclusion: Get Ready to Fizz and Feast!

These Mountain Dew Cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience! With their distinctive citrus flavor, incredibly moist crumb, and playful two-tone frosting, they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone’s face. They’re a testament to how stepping outside the box with your baking ingredients can lead to truly memorable culinary creations. So, grab your can of Mountain Dew, preheat your oven, and prepare to bake a batch of these fizzy, zesty delights. They are truly a fun and easy recipe that will become a go-to for unique homemade treats.

Do you love creative recipes? Be sure to explore our other unique dessert ideas! Check out our copycat recipes for your favorite restaurant dishes, our general dessert recipes for every sweet craving, and our easy Crock Pot Recipes for delicious meals with minimal effort.

Mountain Dew Cupcakes Recipe

Print Recipe

Servings: 16 cupcakes

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

Cupcake Ingredients:

• 1 C (226g) Butter room temp
• 2 C (400g) Granulated Sugar
• 4 Eggs room temp
• 4 C (480g) All Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
• ½ tsp. Baking Soda
• 12 oz Mountain Dew Soda

Mountain Dew Frosting:

• 1 C (226g) Butter room temp
• 4 C (480g) Confectioners’ Powdered Sugar
• 4 Tablespoon Mountain Dew Soda
• Green and yellow gel food coloring

Instructions

Cupcake Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Line cupcake tins with paper liners.
3. Sift together the flour and baking soda; set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating for about a minute after each addition.
5. Gradually add the flour and baking soda mixture, alternating with ¼ C of Mountain Dew, blending as you go until all flour and soda have been added and the batter is well combined.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Using a large ice cream scoop, fill the paper-lined cupcake tins two-thirds full.
8. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes, or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
9. Remove from oven and allow to cool in the tins for 10 minutes.
10. Transfer cupcakes from the tins to a wire rack until completely cooled.

Frosting Directions:

1. Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and creamy.
2. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon or more of Mountain Dew, blending until smooth.
3. Test the frosting to see if it can form and hold a stiff peak.
4. If not, add more powdered sugar, ½ C at a time, and beat until it holds a stiff peak.
5. Divide the frosting equally into two bowls. In the first bowl, add several drops of yellow gel food coloring; in the second bowl, add several drops of green gel food coloring. Mix each bowl well until colors are even.
6. Scoop the green frosting into one side of a pastry bag fitted with a large round frosting tip, then add the yellow frosting to the other side. Twist the open end of the pastry bag to push the frosting towards the tip. Test on a plate to ensure both green and yellow frosting come out simultaneously for a two-tone effect.
7. Frost cupcakes from the outside edge to the center.
8. Garnish with a matching straw or a slice of lime.

Kitchen Tools

• Muffin Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Electric Mixer
• Pastry Bag with Large Round Tip
• Wire Cooling Rack

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