Tropical, sweet, and full of coconut and pineapple flavor — these Bahama Mama cupcakes are a fun, island-inspired treat perfect for parties or a special dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, moist cupcakes with tropical pineapple and coconut flavor.
• Sweet and creamy frosting with a hint of coconut extract.
• Fun, festive presentation with optional maraschino cherries and mini umbrellas.
• Perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or any occasion that calls for a tropical twist.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut, toasted

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1 tsp coconut extract
• Maraschino cherries and mini umbrellas for garnish (optional)

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Calories: ~320 kcal per cupcake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with pineapple juice and coconut milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.

Step 5: Fold in pineapple and coconut

Gently fold in crushed pineapple and toasted coconut until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake the cupcakes

Divide batter among liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.

Step 7: Make the frosting

Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and coconut extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost and garnish

Frost the cooled cupcakes. Garnish with maraschino cherries and mini umbrellas if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, bake and frost them a day in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, just drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Is there a dairy-free option?
Use a plant-based butter and coconut milk, and the cupcakes will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

Bahama Mama Cupcakes bring the flavors of a tropical getaway straight to your kitchen — soft, fruity, and festive, they’re perfect for any celebration or just a sweet escape!