Deliciously Easy Simple Cake In A Cup Recipe Everyone Will Love

Looking for a dessert that is festive, adorable, and incredibly easy to make? This Simple Cake In A Cup Recipe is the perfect treat. Not only is it fun and colorful, but it’s also ideal for birthdays, baby showers, bake sales, and even weekday desserts when you’re craving something sweet. Whether you serve them in mason jars, mini shooter cups, or clear glasses, these dessert shooters are sure to impress guests of all ages.

This recipe is especially great for beginner bakers, kids who want to help in the kitchen, or anyone planning a party who wants a beautiful presentation without the stress of decorating a full-sized cake. Plus, it’s extremely versatile—you can easily modify the colors and flavors for any celebration or season.

And if you love convenient, eye-catching desserts like these, you might also enjoy trying our Birthday Cake Pops, Pumpkin Cake Pops, or our adorable 3-Ingredient Pencil Cookies that are great for classroom parties or bake sales!

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What Is a Cake in a Cup?

A cake in a cup is exactly what it sounds like—delicious layers of fluffy cake and sweet frosting presented in an individual cup or jar. Unlike traditional cake slices, these desserts are more portable, easier to serve, and much cleaner to eat. Best of all, they look stunning when served in clear jars or mini dessert cups, where you can see each beautiful layer.

These treats are sometimes called mason jar desserts, dessert shooters, or DIY cake jars, and they’re popular at events where convenience and visual appeal matter. You might also find variations like S’mores Cookie Bars or Oreo Lasagna, which are perfect for layering in a similar style.

Ingredients for Simple Cake In A Cup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to create these colorful and festive birthday cake dessert cups. This list uses the exact ingredients from the original recipe.

For the Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles (optional)

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Optional Toppings:

• Extra rainbow sprinkles
• Mini candies or cookies
• Colorful whipped cream

This recipe is ideal for customizing. Feel free to experiment with themes—orange and black sprinkles for Halloween, pastel for Easter, or red and green for Christmas.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you get started, gather your tools to keep the process smooth and efficient. You’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• 9×13-inch cake pan
• Cooling rack
• Piping bag (optional but useful)
• Mason jars or small dessert shooter cups

If you’re prepping for a themed party, you can also get creative with the presentation—try using mini jars with lids or themed cupcake toppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Birthday Cake Dessert Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined. If you’re using rainbow sprinkles for a fun confetti look, gently fold them in at the end.

Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Buttercream Frosting
In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and just enough milk or cream to reach your desired consistency. Beat for another 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Cups
Cut the cooled cake into small cubes or rounds using a cookie cutter that fits your jar. Begin layering the jars or cups: a layer of cake, followed by a swirl of frosting (use a piping bag for a clean look), and repeat until the jar is full. Finish with a decorative swirl of frosting on top and a generous sprinkle of colorful toppings.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Place the dessert cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps set the frosting and improves the overall texture.

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Tips for Perfect Simple Cake In A Cup Every Time

Making dessert shooters might seem simple, but a few thoughtful tips will really elevate your final presentation.

• Always let the cake cool fully before assembling. Warm cake can melt the frosting and create a mess.
• Use a piping bag for cleaner, neater layers.
• Use clear jars to highlight the beautiful layers.
• Keep the layers even so each bite is balanced.
• Decorate the top with extra flair to make them Instagram-worthy.

For more beautifully layered recipes, check out our popular Blueberry Cheesecake which also relies on a layered approach.

Presentation Ideas for Simple Cake In A Cup Desserts

Presentation makes all the difference, especially if you’re preparing these for a party or sale. Here are some creative ideas:

• Tie ribbons around mason jars for added charm.
• Add a custom label with flavor name or event theme.
• Use seasonal sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Display the cups on a tiered stand for a professional look.
• Add mini spoons for easy grab-and-go serving.

If you love serving cute desserts for seasonal events, you might also love our Mini Halloween Pizzas or Ghost Wafer Cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Simple Cake In A Cup

It’s just as important to know what not to do. Avoid these common errors to ensure your cake cups turn out perfectly:

• Don’t overbake the cake. Dry cake won’t taste good even with great frosting.
• Avoid overfilling the jars. You’ll need space for toppings and a clean lid.
• Don’t skimp on chilling time. The frosting needs to set for optimal texture.
• Don’t use runny frosting—it should be thick enough to pipe neatly.

Storing and Serving DIY Mason Jar Desserts

These dessert cups are ideal for preparing ahead of time. Store them covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The airtight seal of a mason jar keeps them fresh and moist.

When you’re ready to serve, take them out 20–30 minutes beforehand. This allows the buttercream to soften slightly, giving you the best flavor and texture. If you’re giving these as gifts or party favors, store them in the fridge with a label and date for safety.

Creative Variations and Flavor Swaps

Once you master this recipe, try one of these easy variations:

• Chocolate Cake + Mint Frosting – Great for the holidays
• Red Velvet + Cream Cheese Frosting – A romantic dessert idea
• Lemon Cake + Blueberry Filling – Bright and fruity
• S’mores Dessert Shooters – Layer graham crackers, chocolate cake, and marshmallow fluff

Looking for more holiday-themed ideas? You might love our Halloween Chocolate Chip Cookies or Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles.

Perfect Pairings for Your Simple Cake In A Cup

Even though these treats shine on their own, they go great with:

• A glass of cold milk
• A warm cup of herbal tea
• A refreshing lemonade
• A fruity smoothie like our Matcha Smoothie

These drinks help balance the sweetness while making dessert time more enjoyable for kids and adults alike.

Bake Sale & Party Ideas Using Dessert Cups

These cake in a cup desserts are bake-sale gold. Not only are they budget-friendly to make in bulk, but they also stand out on the table.

• Make a double batch and assemble in disposable plastic cups with lids.
• Use color-coded ribbons and tags for events or seasonal sales.
• Stack them in a cooler to transport easily to school or fundraising events.
• Add flavor tags like “Birthday Cake,” “Cookies & Cream,” or “Confetti Fun.”

For more creative bake sale treats, don’t miss our Apple Brownies and Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake.

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Simple Cake In A Cup Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes, any boxed cake mix works. Chocolate, lemon, or even strawberry are great alternatives.

How far in advance can I make these?
Up to 4 days ahead if stored in the refrigerator with lids.

Can I freeze these dessert cups?
Freezing is not recommended for frosting texture, but you can freeze the cake and assemble fresh.

Is homemade cake necessary?
Not at all! Store-bought cake or frosting works perfectly in a time crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Cake In A Cup Recipe is the perfect combination of easy preparation, beautiful presentation, and crowd-pleasing flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for a bake sale, or making treats for the family, these adorable dessert shooters will be a huge hit.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog at recipesize.com for more delightful desserts, party treats, and creative food ideas. Your next favorite recipe is just a click away!

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