why make this recipe
Halloween cupcakes are a fun and festive treat that everyone will enjoy. These cupcakes not only look great but are also delicious with a delightful strawberry flavor. The process of decorating them can be a fun activity for kids and adults alike, making them perfect for Halloween parties or family gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a sweet treat that combines the spooky spirit of Halloween with a loved fruit?
how to make Halloween Cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (15.25 ounces) plus oil, water, and eggs necessary to prepare the cupcakes
- 2 sticks unsalted butter (1 cup)
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch kosher salt
- 1/4 cup strawberry syrup (for drizzling)
Directions
Use the cake mix to prepare 24 cupcakes according to package instructions. Let them cool completely before decorating.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter on medium speed until it is fluffy and smooth.
Add the strawberry jam and mix on medium speed until it is fully incorporated.
While beating on medium-low speed, add powdered sugar one cup at a time until all sugar is mixed in.
Add the vanilla extract and salt, and mix on medium speed until smooth.
Using an offset spatula, frost the top of each cupcake thinly with the prepared strawberry buttercream. Don’t worry about making it perfect; this base is just for the zombie brain frosting you will do later.
Place the remaining buttercream in a piping bag fitted with a small round frosting tip.
Pipe a line with a curve on the end (almost like an "L" shape) down the center of each cupcake. Then, pipe swirls and squiggles connecting from the end of that curve until you have covered the entire cupcake half. Repeat on the other side.
Place the cupcakes on a rimmed serving tray and drizzle lightly with strawberry syrup.
The frosted cupcakes will keep for 3 days in an airtight container. It is best to drizzle the strawberry syrup "blood" on just before serving.
how to serve Halloween Cupcakes
Serve the Halloween cupcakes on a festive platter or tray. You can make the setup spooky by adding some Halloween-themed decorations, such as mini pumpkins or fake spiders. These cupcakes are great for parties, and they will surely be a hit with both kids and adults.
how to store Halloween Cupcakes
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, it’s best to freeze them without the decoration. When ready to serve, simply frost them and drizzle with syrup.
tips to make Halloween Cupcakes
- Make sure to let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- If you want a stronger strawberry flavor, you can add more strawberry jam to the buttercream.
- Play with the decorating style: make the swirls and squiggles as detailed or simple as you like!
variation
You can switch up the flavor by using different cake mixes, like chocolate or vanilla, and pairing them with different jams. You can also try adding Halloween-themed sprinkles on top for extra decoration!
FAQs
1. Can I make these cupcakes in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day or two ahead. Just keep them in an airtight container until you’re ready to decorate.
2. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! You can use cream cheese frosting or even a chocolate frosting if you prefer.
3. How can I make these cupcakes more spooky?
You can use food coloring to dye the frosting or add Halloween-themed sprinkles, gummy worms, or little plastic insects for a creepy touch!
