Is There a Real Difference Between Cupcakes and Muffins?

Well, I think so! Cupcake recipes are exactly the same as cake recipes — it’s just that the “cake” is in a “cup”. So they are light and fluffy and sweet (usually with icing…to be even sweeter). Muffin recipes are based on “quick bread” (bread that does not need time to rise; they are slightly sweeter than regular bread, usually made from fruits such as banana or vegetables such as carrots). So muffins are not as sweet as cupcakes (and never with frosting!!) and the texture is denser. Muffins are great for breakfast or even breakfast, but if it’s dessert you’re looking for, go for a cupcake!

You can see the difference in textures in the first picture, with muffins on the left and cupcakes on the right.

Small (cupcake‐sized) cheesecakes are also available.

Cupcakes & Muffins Pictures