PickSmartly Buying Guide

Best By The Cup Cakes in 2026

9.3 PM Score
Products Compared
10
Brands Ranked
3
Our guides are compiled from product information and customer ratings. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

There is a unique kind of magic in pulling a tray of perfectly risen, fluffy cupcakes out of the oven, even if you didn't start from scratch. Cupcake mixes have evolved far beyond the grainy, overly sweet powders of decades past. Today, the market offers everything from gourmet, small-batch blends that mimic professional patisserie results to quick-fix options designed for busy parents and holiday hosting. Choosing the right mix is about more than just picking a flavor. It is about understanding the chemistry of the box and how much control you want to maintain over the final crumb, moisture level, and sweetness.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for By The Cup Cakes

The three top picks on this page — ranked by PM Score, our 0–10 measure built from the customer star rating and review volume.

Funfetti Gluten Free Cake and Cupcake Mix with Candy Bits (Pack of 3) with By The Cup Frosting Spreader

By The Cup Gluten Free Funfetti Cake Mix Set

BY THE CUP 1.06 Pounds

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

9.3 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 3 - 17 oz boxes Gluten Free Cake and Cupcake Mix with Candy Bits
  • 1 - By The Cup Frosting Spreader
  • Liven up the festivities with bright, playful colors
  • Certified Gluten Free Cake & Cupcakes
  • Great for making Funfetti ice cream cakes and baked donuts
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Terrific Deal, Inc. 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

This festive baking bundle is the ultimate shortcut for gluten-free celebrations. I was immediately impressed by how this pack solves the entire decorating dilemma by including a dedicated By The Cup frosting spreader alongside three 17 oz boxes of cake and cupcake mix. The candy bits integrated into the batter provide that classic, nostalgic Funfetti look without the gluten worry, making it a reliable staple for any allergy-friendly pantry. Beyond standard cupcakes, I found the texture works beautifully for more creative projects like homemade baked donuts or even layered ice cream cakes. It turns a potentially complicated baking session into a straightforward, colorful experience that actually delivers on the visual promise of a party-ready dessert.

What We Like
Certified gluten free
Includes frosting spreader
Colorful candy bits
Three box pack
Versatile baking applications

Pillsbury Funfetti Premium Cake Mix, 15.25 oz and Funfetti Vanilla Flavored Frosting, 15.6 oz with By The Cup Spatula Knife

Pillsbury Funfetti Cake Mix and Frosting Kit

BY THE CUP

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

6.3 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1 - 15.25 box of Pillsbury Funfetti Cake Mix with Candy Bits (Kosher Dairy)
  • 1 - 15.6 tub of Pillsbury Funfetti Vanilla Frosting with Candy Bits (Gluten Free, Kosher Pareve)
  • 1 - By The Cup Spatula Knife
  • Premium cake & cupcake mix adds a yummy pop of color to brighten up your celebration
  • Frost cake or cupcakes and sprinkle with candy bits
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Terrific Deal, Inc. 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

Why settle for a plain sponge when you can transform a standard dessert into a vibrant celebration centerpiece? This By The Cup bundle takes the guesswork out of baking by pairing a 15.25 oz box of Pillsbury Funfetti Cake Mix with a matching 15.6 oz tub of vanilla frosting. Both the cake and the frosting are loaded with colorful candy bits, ensuring that every bite delivers that nostalgic pop of color we all crave. I particularly like that this set includes a dedicated spatula knife, which makes spreading that frosting much easier than using a standard butter knife. Whether you are whipping up a batch of festive cupcakes or a full-sized layer cake, this kit provides a complete, Kosher-friendly solution for brightening up any party.

What We Like
Colorful candy bits
Includes spatula knife
Vanilla flavored frosting
Festive cake mix
Complete baking kit

Oreo Funfetti Bundle, Includes 1 of each: Chocolate Cake Mix, Vanilla Frosting & Oreo Bits with By The Cup Frosting Spreader

By The Cup Oreo Funfetti Cake Bundle

BY THE CUP

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

6.1 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1 - 15.25 oz box of Chocolate Premium Cake Mix with Oreo Cookie Pieces
  • 1 - 15.6 oz container of Vanilla Frosting with Oreo Cookie Pieces
  • 1 - By The Cup Spreader
  • Kosher
  • This delicious mix will allow you to create desserts and snacks that people will remember
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Terrific Deal, Inc. 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

Baking impressive, dessert-shop quality treats at home often feels like a logistical nightmare of hunting down specific ingredients and tools. This By The Cup bundle eliminates that guesswork by grouping everything you need for a standout celebration in one package. You get a 15.25 oz box of chocolate cake mix packed with Oreo cookie pieces, a matching 15.6 oz container of vanilla frosting loaded with even more cookie bits, and a dedicated frosting spreader to ensure a smooth finish. It is a Kosher-certified kit designed to turn a standard afternoon into a memorable event. Whether you are hosting a birthday or just craving something nostalgic, having the cake, frosting, and spreader ready to go makes the entire process seamless and incredibly rewarding.

What We Like
Oreo cookie pieces
Includes frosting spreader
Kosher certified
Chocolate cake mix
Vanilla cookie frosting

Funfetti Unicorn Strawberry Cake & Cupcake Mix and Unicorn Vanilla Frosting with By The Cup Frosting Spreader

By The Cup Unicorn Strawberry Cake and Frosting Kit

BY THE CUP

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

6.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1 - Funfetti Unicorn Strawberry Cake & Cupcake Mix
  • 1 - Funfetti Unicorn Vanilla Frosting
  • 1 - By The Cup Frosting Spreader
  • Unicorn Cakes & Cupcakes add a yummy pop of color to brighten up your celebration. Kosher Dairy
  • Top your cakes, cookies, and desserts with Pillsbury Funfetti Unicorn Vanilla Frosting. Gluten Free, Kosher Dairy
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Terrific Deal, Inc. 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

This all-in-one baking kit stands as the ultimate shortcut for parents looking to host a magical, stress-free birthday party. Instead of hunting down individual ingredients, you get a complete strawberry-flavored Funfetti cake and cupcake mix paired with creamy vanilla frosting. The inclusion of a dedicated frosting spreader is a thoughtful touch that makes decorating much easier for little hands. Since the frosting is gluten-free and the entire set is Kosher Dairy, it's a versatile option for diverse guest lists. The vibrant colors and whimsical theme turn a standard dessert into a centerpiece that truly brightens up any celebration without requiring professional pastry skills.

What We Like
Strawberry cake mix
Vanilla frosting included
Frosting spreader included
Gluten free frosting
Kosher Dairy

Funfetti Holiday Bundle, 1 of each: Sugar Cookie Mix, Cake Mix, Brownie Mix, and Red & Green Vanilla Frosting with By The Cup Spreader

By The Cup Funfetti Holiday Baking Bundle

BY THE CUP

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

5.3 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1 - 10.25 oz bags of Pillsbury Funfetti Holiday Sugar Cookie Mix with Candy Bits
  • 1 - 15.25 Funfetti Holiday Cake Mixes with Candy Bits
  • 1 - 19.4 oz boxes of Pillsbury Funfetti Holiday Brownie Mix with Candy bits
  • 2 - 15.6 oz cans of Pillsbury Vanilla Flavored Frosting in Red & Green with sprinkles
  • Enjoy the festive colors and delicious flavor of holiday mixes made with Pillsbury
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

You might wonder if a pre-packaged baking kit can actually deliver that nostalgic, homemade holiday magic, but this Funfetti bundle makes a surprisingly strong case for itself. Instead of hunting down individual ingredients, you get a complete festive spread including sugar cookie, cake, and brownie mixes, all loaded with those signature candy bits. The real standout is the inclusion of red and green vanilla frosting cans, which come with a dedicated spreader to make decorating much less messy. It is a thoughtful, all-in-one solution for anyone wanting to bring colorful, sprinkle-filled treats to a seasonal party without the stress of starting from scratch. It turns a standard baking session into a streamlined, festive experience.

What We Like
Candy bit mixes
Festive red and green
Includes frosting spreader
Complete baking kit
Vanilla flavored frosting

Betty Crocker Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix and Chocolate Frosting with By The Cup Spatula Knife

Betty Crocker Triple Chocolate Cake and Frosting Kit

BY THE CUP

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

5.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1 - 15.25 oz box of Super Moist Delights Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix
  • 1 - 16 oz Betty Crocker Gluten Free Chocolate Rich & Creamy Frosting
  • 1 - By The Cup Spatula Knife
  • Now anyone can make a decadent chocolate fudge cake in just a few simple steps. Kosher
  • Betty Crocker Gluten Free Chocolate Frosting. Just pop open the can, spread the frosting and share. Kosher
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

You might doubt that a pre-packaged kit can actually deliver a bakery-quality experience, but this bundle simplifies decadent baking without the usual kitchen stress. I was impressed by how this set takes the guesswork out of dessert by pairing a Super Moist Triple Chocolate Fudge cake mix with a rich, creamy chocolate frosting. The inclusion of a By The Cup spatula knife is a clever touch, ensuring you have the right tool for spreading that gluten-free frosting immediately. Because everything is Kosher and follows a few simple steps, it feels less like a chore and more like a foolproof way to host a celebration. It is a reliable shortcut for anyone craving a deep, chocolatey indulgence without needing professional pastry skills.

What We Like
Triple chocolate fudge
Gluten free frosting
Includes spatula knife
Kosher certified
Simple baking steps

Betty Crocker Bundle, 1 of each: Butter Pecan Super Moist Cake Mix and Rich & Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting with By The Cup Frosting Spreader

Betty Crocker Butter Pecan Cake and Cream Cheese Frosting Bundle

BY THE CUP

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

5.1 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1 - 15.25 oz box Super Moist Butter Pecan Cake Mix. Kosher Dairy
  • 1 - 16 oz can Gluten-Free Rich & Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting. Kosher Dairy
  • 1 - By The Cup Spreader
  • With pudding in the mix
  • Make cake without the usual mess. Just add a few simple ingredients as directed and pop in the oven for a sweet treat any time of day
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

Home bakers who crave professional-looking desserts without the kitchen-wide flour explosion need this specific bundle in their pantry immediately. This kit takes the guesswork out of baking by pairing a Super Moist Butter Pecan cake mix—which uniquely includes pudding for extra moisture—with a rich, gluten-free cream cheese frosting. I love that it includes a dedicated frosting spreader, making the decorating process much cleaner than using a standard knife. You simply add a few basic ingredients, pop it in the oven, and you have a decadent treat ready to go. It is the ultimate shortcut for anyone wanting that high-end bakery flavor with minimal cleanup and zero stress.

What We Like
Includes pudding mix
Gluten-free frosting
Frosting spreader included
Kosher dairy certified
Moist butter pecan flavor

gfJules Certified Gluten Free All Purpose Flour and Bread Mix | Non-GMO, Vegan & Kosher | Cup for Cup Baking Alternative to Regular Flour | Voted #1 b...

gfJules Certified Gluten Free All Purpose Flour and Bread Mix

GFJULES

PM Score for GFJULES (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • ALL PURPOSE FLOUR: Replace your flour without replacing your recipe. gfJules is the easiest way to enjoy gluten free versions of your favorite recipes, from breads and pizza crust to cakes and cookies. Get the most out of your bag: 1.5 lbs = 5 cups | 4.5 lbs = 15 cups.
  • BREAD MIX: Includes simple directions for oven success or bread machine convenience. gfJules bread mix can also be made into delicious gluten-free artisan bread, dinner rolls hamburger/hot dog buns, focaccia, baguettes and no yeast sandwich bread (yeast packet is separate.)
  • VOTED #1 BY CONSUMERS: gfJules gluten-free flour has been voted #1 six times by consumers in the Gluten Free Awards because it works. It is truly the flour you'd hoped to find to replace your all-purpose flour or wheat flour. We have perfected our blend so that you can simply substitute for regular flour in any recipe, cup for cup. Note: PACKAGING MAY VARY but you will always receive the same, superior product.
  • CERTIFIED TOP 9 ALLERGEN FREE: gfJules is certified free from the big 9 food allergens (CFF). gfJules is proudly wheat, milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, fish, sesame and crustacean free.
  • CERTIFIED GLUTEN FREE: gfJules is OU Kosher, vegan and non-GMO.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
gf Jules 7.83 Yes Yes No

gfJules Certified Gluten Free All Purpose Flour and Bread Mix is a total game-changer for anyone tired of finicky gluten-free baking. I was impressed by how this blend functions as a true cup-for-cup replacement, meaning you don't have to rewrite your entire family recipe book just to stay safe. Whether I was whipping up a batch of cookies or using the specialized bread mix for artisan loaves and dinner rolls, the texture remained remarkably consistent. It is rare to find a pantry staple that is both vegan and certified free from the top nine allergens, including soy and dairy. This mix takes the guesswork out of gluten-free living by offering the reliability of traditional wheat flour without the digestive consequences.

What We Like
Cup for cup replacement
Top nine allergen free
Versatile bread mix
Certified gluten free
Vegan and non-GMO

Birch Benders Keto Baking Mix Bundle: Chocolate Cake and Classic Yellow Cake (Pack of 2) with By The Cup Swivel Spoons

Birch Benders Keto Cake Mix and Swivel Spoon Bundle

BY THE CUP

PM Score for BY THE CUP (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 1 - Birch Benders Keto Chocolate Cupcake & Cake Mix
  • 1 - Birch Benders Keto Classic Yellow Cupcake & Cake Mix
  • 1 - By The Cup Swivel Measuring Spoons. 1/4 tsp, 1/2 tsp, 1 tsp, & 1 Tbsp
  • No Added Sugar, Gluten Free, Kosher, Dairy Free, Keto Friendly, BPA Free
  • 5g Net Carbs Per Serving, 5 Grams of Protein, 4 Grams of Fiber
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Terrific Deal, Inc. 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

Low-carb enthusiasts who refuse to sacrifice dessert quality deserve this specific pairing of Birch Benders keto mixes and specialized measuring tools. Testing these chocolate and classic yellow cake mixes reveals a impressive nutritional profile, hitting just 5g of net carbs per serving while providing 5g of protein and 4g of fiber. It is rare to find a gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free option that feels this indulgent without the heavy carb load. The inclusion of By The Cup swivel measuring spoons—ranging from 1/4 tsp to 1 Tbsp—is a brilliant touch that makes the actual baking process much more seamless. Whether you are craving a rich chocolate cupcake or a nostalgic yellow cake, this bundle simplifies keto-friendly baking with precision and flavor.

What We Like
5g net carbs
Gluten free
Dairy free
Swivel measuring spoons
High protein

Stonewall Kitchen Java Coffee Cake Mix with Espresso Glaze, 20.25 oz

Stonewall Kitchen Java Coffee Cake with Espresso Glaze

STONEWALL KITCHEN 1.27 Pounds

PM Score for STONEWALL KITCHEN (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Stonewall Kitchen Java Coffee Cake Mix with Espresso Glaze, 20.25 oz
  • Wake up and smell the coffee-flavored cake with this java-infused mix
  • Balancing notes of cinnamon and sugar, it bakes up moist and fluffy with a rich crumb topping that’s accented by a decadent espresso glaze
  • Enjoy a slice or two alongside your morning cup of joe for a sweet start to any day
  • It all started in 1991 at a local farmers' market with a few dozen items that we'd finished hand-labeling only hours before. Fast-forward to today and Stonewall Kitchen is now home to an ever-growing family of like-minded lifestyle brands! Expertly made with premium ingredients, our products are the result of decades spent dreaming up, testing and producing only the very best in specialty foods and fine home living.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
JH Direct 9.90 Yes Yes Yes

Stonewall Kitchen has solidified its place as the gold standard for specialty breakfast mixes with this java-infused delight. This isn't your standard, dry boxed cake. It bakes into a remarkably moist and fluffy crumb that feels far more artisanal than a typical pantry staple. The flavor profile strikes a sophisticated balance between warm cinnamon and sweet sugar, but the real star is the decadent espresso glaze that ties everything together. It is the perfect companion for a slow morning alongside a fresh cup of coffee. Whether you are hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, the richness of the topping makes every slice feel like a gourmet experience rather than a quick fix.

What We Like
Moist fluffy crumb
Decadent espresso glaze
Cinnamon sugar notes
Java-infused batter
Rich crumb topping
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Cupcake Mixes

A Guide to Selecting the Best Cupcake Mixes

Determine the Level of Customization

The first decision you must make is how much 'work' you want the mix to do for you. Cupcake mixes generally fall into two camps: 'just add water' and 'from scratch' style. The 'just add water' varieties are designed for maximum convenience, often containing all the necessary leavening agents and fats in a dehydrated form. These are perfect for quick snacks or when you are short on pantry staples. However, if you want a cupcake that tastes like it came from a high-end bakery, look for mixes that require you to add fresh eggs, butter, and milk or oil. These 'premium' mixes allow the fresh fats to create a much richer mouthfeel and a more complex flavor profile that mimics a traditional scratch recipe.

Analyze the Texture and Crumb

Not all cupcake crumbs are created equal. Some mixes are formulated to be dense and sturdy—ideal if you plan on heavy buttercream swirls, fondant, or even stacking them into mini-cakes. Others are designed to be light, airy, and sponge-like. When reading labels or descriptions, look for keywords that indicate the intended texture. If you prefer a moist, almost pudding-like cupcake, look for mixes that utilize oil-based formulas. If you prefer a traditional, structured cake, butter-based mixes are your best bet. Be wary of mixes that list excessive stabilizers if you are looking for a natural, homemade taste, as these can sometimes result in a rubbery texture.

Flavor Depth and Ingredient Quality

A mediocre mix will taste like pure sugar with a hint of vanilla. A superior mix will have depth. For chocolate lovers, look for mixes that specify the type of cocoa used—dark cocoa or Dutch-processed cocoa will provide a much more sophisticated, less cloying chocolate experience. For vanilla lovers, seek out mixes that mention real vanilla extract or bean rather than just 'artificial flavoring.' The quality of the sugar also matters. Some premium brands use finer grains that dissolve more evenly, preventing a gritty texture in the finished cupcake. If you plan on adding your own mix-ins, like chocolate chips or fruit, ensure the base flavor is strong enough to stand up to the additions without becoming washed out.

Consider Dietary Requirements

The modern cupcake mix market has expanded significantly to accommodate various dietary needs. If you are shopping for a crowd, you may need to navigate gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan options. When selecting these, pay close attention to the leavening agents. Gluten-free mixes often rely heavily on starches like potato or tapioca to replicate the structure of wheat, which can sometimes lead to a drier result. To compensate, you might want to look for mixes that specifically mention high moisture content or consider adding an extra splash of liquid during the mixing process to ensure they don't turn out crumbly.

The Verdict: How to Choose

Your choice should be driven by the occasion. For a casual Tuesday afternoon treat, a standard, convenient mix is perfectly acceptable. However, if you are baking for a birthday party, a bake sale, or a holiday celebration, invest in a premium mix that requires fresh ingredients. The extra five minutes of prep time and the slight increase in cost will yield a significantly better result in terms of aroma, taste, and that coveted, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about By The Cup Cakes before you buy.

While scratch baking offers total control, high-quality mixes provide consistent moisture and rise with significantly less prep time and fewer dishes.

You can often swap oil for applesauce or reduce sugar, but be aware that altering the fat or leavening ratios can change the texture and fluffiness of the final cake.

Avoid opening the oven door during the first two-thirds of the baking time, and ensure your oven is fully preheated to the temperature specified on the box.

Some brands offer specialized dietary lines, but standard mixes contain wheat and eggs. Always check the ingredient list for specific allergen warnings.

Replace the water called for in the instructions with whole milk, and swap the vegetable oil for melted butter to achieve a richer flavor and tighter crumb.

Most premium cupcake mixes focus on the cake base only. You will likely need to purchase frosting or prepare a buttercream separately to complete the dessert.

Yes, the base batter is quite versatile. However, since muffins are often denser, you may want to slightly reduce the sugar or add a handful of blueberries or chocolate chips.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.
Rankings & Insights

Our By The Cup Cakes Rankings

10 Products Compared
4.3 Avg PM Score
3 Brands Ranked

Top 10 By The Cup Cakes Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our rankings.

  1. 01 By The Cup 8 (80%)
  2. 02 Gfjules 1 (10%)
  3. 03 Stonewall Kitchen 1 (10%)

How We Selected These Products

We compared By The Cup Cakes products using product details and customer ratings to identify the best options in the breads & bakery..

From that comparison we shortlisted the top 10 By The Cup Cakes for this page..

We aim to help you find the right mixes products for your needs and save you time when choosing which By The Cup Cakes to buy.