Introduction & Inspiration
This Ice Cream Stuffed Cupcakes recipe is a delightful and surprisingly easy way to combine two classic desserts: cupcakes and ice cream! I’m always looking for ways to create fun and unexpected treats, and these cupcakes are the perfect example. It is a great surprise.
The inspiration came from a desire to create a dessert that was both visually appealing and incredibly delicious, something that would be a hit at birthday parties, summer gatherings, or any time you’re craving a cool and creamy treat. I wanted a cupcake that had a hidden surprise inside.
The combination of a moist chocolate cupcake, a scoop of your favorite ice cream, a fluffy whipped topping, and a drizzle of melted chocolate creates a truly unforgettable dessert that’s sure to impress.
I’m excited to share this recipe because these cupcakes are always a hit. They’re fun to make, fun to decorate, and even more fun to eat! They’re also a great way to use up leftover cupcakes or ice cream.
Nostalgic Appeal
Cupcakes and ice cream are two classic treats that often evoke feelings of nostalgia and childhood celebrations. They’re desserts that are often associated with birthday parties, school events, and happy memories.
These Ice Cream Stuffed Cupcakes tap into that nostalgia, offering a fun and creative way to combine these two beloved treats. They’re a reminder that baking can be both playful and delicious.
The hidden ice cream surprise also adds an element of fun and whimsy, reminiscent of surprise-inside cakes and other playful desserts. It’s a treat that’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
And that’s the beauty of these cupcakes – they combine the familiar comfort of classic desserts with a fun and unexpected twist, creating a treat that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying.
Homemade Focus
Semi-homemade and impressive.
Flavor Goal
Chocolate cupcake and the ice cream flavor of your choice!
Ingredient Insights
Chocolate cake mix, ice cream, whipped topping, semisweet chocolate chips, Mini M&Ms.
Essential Equipment
Two 12-cup muffin tins, cupcake liners, melon baller or tablespoon, piping bag (optional).
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 box chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box
- 1 1/2 qt. ice cream (such as Breyers 2-in-1 Snickers and M&Ms)
- 2 cups whipped topping
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1/2 cup Mini M&Ms

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350º and line two 12-cup muffin tins with cupcake liners.
- Make Cupcake Batter and Bake: Prepare cupcake batter according to package directions and divide between cupcake liners. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool completely before stuffing.
- Core Cupcakes: Using a melon baller or tablespoon, scoop out middle of each cupcake to create a well. (Trim bottoms of scooped cupcakes so you have flat tops.) Set aside.
- Fill with Ice Cream: Fill each well with a small scoop ice cream, then top with reserved cupcake top.
- Freeze
- Decorate.

Troubleshooting
*Cupcakes sinking in the middle: *Ice cream melting too quickly
Tips and Variations
- Different Ice Cream Flavors:
- Different Cake Mix Flavors:
- Add a Layer of Fudge:
- Use Different Toppings:
Customize these cupcakes
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Birthday parties, summer gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Enjoy these treats!
PrintIce Cream Stuffed Cupcakes
This Ice Cream Stuffed Cupcakes recipe is a delightful and surprisingly easy way to combine two classic desserts: cupcakes and ice cream! I’m always looking for ways to create fun and unexpected treats, and these cupcakes are the perfect example. It is a great surprise
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box
- 1 1/2 qt. ice cream (such as Breyers 2-in-1 Snickers and M&Ms)
- 2 cups whipped topping
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1/2 cup Mini M&Ms
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350º and line two 12-cup muffin tins with cupcake liners.
- Make Cupcake Batter and Bake: Prepare cupcake batter according to package directions and divide between cupcake liners. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool completely before stuffing.
- Core Cupcakes: Using a melon baller or tablespoon, scoop out middle of each cupcake to create a well. (Trim bottoms of scooped cupcakes so you have flat tops.) Set aside.
- Fill with Ice Cream: Fill each well with a small scoop ice cream, then top with reserved cupcake top.
- Freeze
- Decorate.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
A fun and delicious surprise-inside cupcake.
Q: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? A: Yes
Q: Can I use homemade cupcake batter and whipped cream? A: Absolutely!
Q: How long will these cupcakes last in the freezer? A: Several days.