Why You’ll Love Marshmallow Cupcakes + Marshmallow Frosting Recipe

It’s playful and fun — little surprises inside each cupcake.
The marshmallow frosting is creamy and indulgent.
You can customize by adding flavors or decorations.
Great for parties, holiday treats, or anytime you want something whimsical but satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cupcakes:

Prepared cupcakes
Marshmallows
French vanilla syrup (or simple syrup)

For the Frosting:

Butter or margarine, softened
Marshmallow cream
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream or milk

Directions

Bake your cupcakes using your favorite or a prepared mix. Let them cool completely.
Use an apple corer or a small knife to cut a small hole or well in the center of each cupcake, being careful not to go all the way through to the bottom.
If desired, brush the top or inside edges of the cupcake holes with French vanilla syrup (or simple syrup) to add moisture and flavor.
Insert a marshmallow into each hollow you’ve made.
Prepare the frosting: in a mixing bowl, combine softened butter (or margarine), marshmallow cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing as you go. Use heavy cream or milk as needed to adjust the consistency so it’s pipeable yet holds shape.
Frost each cupcake generously with the marshmallow frosting.
Optionally decorate with more marshmallows, sprinkles, or small cookies on top for a festive touch.

Servings and timing

Makes about 24 cupcakes
Preparation time: ~20 minutes (not including baking)
Baking & cooling time: depends on the cupcake recipe used

Variations

Use chocolate cupcakes instead of plain for a chocolate‑marshmallow combo
Add a drop of food coloring to the frosting for a fun pastel effect
Mix in flavored extracts (lemon, almond, mint) into the frosting
Top with toasted mini marshmallows or a drizzle of chocolate
Make these as mini cupcakes or jumbo size depending on your crowd

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
If in a hot climate, store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days
Let refrigerated cupcakes come to room temperature before serving for best texture
Do not freeze frosted cupcakes, as the marshmallow texture may degrade

FAQs

How far in advance can I make these cupcakes?

You can bake the cupcakes a day before, keep them unfrosted, then fill and frost them on the day you plan to serve.

Can I use regular frosting instead of marshmallow frosting?

Yes — you can substitute your favorite buttercream or cream cheese frosting, though you’ll lose that signature marshmallow fluff flavor.

What if I don’t have French vanilla syrup?

You can use simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) or skip the syrup entirely. The syrup just adds extra moisture and flavor.

Can I use mini marshmallows instead of full‑size?

Yes — mini marshmallows work well and may fit more neatly inside the cupcake holes.

Is it possible to make these gluten‑free?

Absolutely — just use a gluten‑free cupcake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten‑free.

Can I freeze the unfrosted filled cupcakes?

You can freeze plain cupcakes (unfilled, unfrosted), then thaw, fill, and frost before serving. But filled/frosted ones may lose quality when frozen.

The frosting seems too stiff — what do I do?

Add a little more heavy cream or milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach a pipeable consistency.

The frosting is too runny — how can I fix it?

Add more powdered sugar gradually until it thickens to your liking.

How do I transport these cupcakes without ruining the marshmallows or frosting?

Use a sturdy box with cupcake inserts or dividers to keep them from shifting. Chill them before transport so the frosting firms up.

Can I make this recipe dairy‑free or vegan?

You could try substituting vegan butter or margarine and using a vegan marshmallow cream (if available). Be sure to check all ingredient labels for dairy content.

Conclusion

These marshmallow‑filled cupcakes with marshmallow frosting bring a playful twist to a classic treat. With every bite, you get cake, gooey marshmallow, and creamy frosting. They’re perfect for celebrations or whenever you want a dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at. Enjoy making them your own with flavors or decorations, and delight your friends and family with something special.