Bahama Mama Cupcakes

Here’s a tropical treat that packs all the island flavor of the classic cocktail into a fun, fruity dessert: Bahama Mama Cupcakes! 🍹🧁 These cupcakes feature hints of pineapple, orange, coconut, and rum — just like the drink. They’re perfect for summer parties, beach-themed events, or anytime you need a little taste of paradise.

🧁 Bahama Mama Cupcakes

⭐ Servings: 12–16 | ⏱ Prep: 20 min | Bake: 18–22 min | Chill: Optional

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 box white or yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice

• 1/4 cup orange juice

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 3 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons coconut rum (like Malibu) – optional but authentic

• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained

• Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 3–4 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons coconut rum or pineapple juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for texture)

• Pinch of salt

• Optional: orange or pink gel food coloring for a tropical touch

Garnishes (Optional but fun!):

• Maraschino cherries

• Tiny umbrellas

• Pineapple wedges

• Toasted coconut flakes

Instructions:

1. Make the Cupcakes:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

• In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pineapple juice, orange juice, oil, eggs, rum, and orange zest.

• Mix with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.

• Gently fold in crushed pineapple.

• Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full.

• Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

• Let cool completely before frosting.

2. Make the Frosting:

• Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).

• Add powdered sugar gradually, alternating with rum or juice, vanilla, and cream until smooth and spreadable.

• Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

• If desired, mix in food coloring to match the tropical vibe.

3. Decorate:

• Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes.

• Top with cherries, pineapple, toasted coconut, or fun drink-themed toppers.

📝 Tips & Variations:

• Non-alcoholic version: Just skip the rum and use all juice — the tropical flavor still shines through!

• Add a splash of grenadine for a “sunset” swirl in the batter or frosting.

• Use coconut extract if you want extra coconut flavor without rum.