A Monkey on a Cupcake - So good you will want to rip into them...

How to Make Conversation Heart Cupcakes

If you’re looking for Valentine’s Day dessert ideas, these conversation heart cupcakes are the perfect treat. They come with a recipe and instructions to make them at home!

I am so excited to share today’s recipe with you! These conversation heart cupcakes are super easy to make and they look absolutely adorable. I love the idea of baking these, giving them away as a gift, or having some for myself too!

There is something about baked goods that just makes me feel warm inside. I hope you enjoy this recipe and let me know what you think in the comments below.

Conversation Heart Candy History

The history of conversation heart candy is fascinating. It was created in 1848 by a candy maker named Oliver R. Chase and it is still made the same way today with natural ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, food coloring; citric acid (to make them sour), and ammonium chloride which gives them their shape through a process called conching where they are mixed for hours at high temperature to break down the molecules of cocoa butter into smaller pieces so that they melt more easily on your tongue.

A lot of words to explain that he basically created the first machine to whip these candy lozenges out faster and in a fun shape.

Yup – they were originally sore throat lozenges – that were designed to help ailing patients. That candy maker was originally a pharmacist!

Food historians say that the conversation heart shape was chosen because it resembles a human mouth with teeth. They are also said to represent kisses and were first called “sweethearts.”

The German word for these candies is Herzensbonbons, which translates as “Heart’s Delight” or “Sugar of my Heart,” and they have been known in Japan since 1907 as Kokin-no-tama or Sweetheart Ball.

In 1912, President Taft became the first American president to receive this type of candy when he received them from his wife who had traveled abroad. The popularity spread quickly around America until World War II where sugar shortages made their production difficult, but after WWII they never stopped being made.

They used to be larger and had longer sayings on them. As with all things over time, the price goes up and the size goes down. The latest development? The candy endearments now speak with common text phrases.

Conversation Heart Shortage

In 2018 Necco declared bankruptcy. The original plant closed and their candy brands were sold off. The rights to Sweethearts were acquired by the Spangler Candy Company. With the purchase of the brand by Spangler, Sweethearts were unavailable for Valentine’s Day 2019 as Spangler set up production of the confections in a new plant.

Sweethearts returned in 2020 with the original flavors from before Necco’s 2010 change to more vivid colors and sour flavors, but due to equipment problems, the familiar sayings were largely either incomplete or missing entirely.

They seem to have all the bugs worked out though and are headed in the correct direction.

Whew!

Other Valentine’s Day inspired cupcakes

I have used the trendy treats of the season before to inspire things like our Homemade Hostess Cupcakes for Valentine’s Day and even my Amazing Chocolate Peanut Butter Heart Cupcakes. A little more whimsical? Adorable Valentine’s Day Bear Cupcakes might be just the ticket if your Valentine is pint-sized.

Now, I can add these Conversation Heart Cupcakes to the list!

Heart Shaped Cupcakes Are a Lie!

Yes – I have heard of the old trick about placing a marble or small ball of tinfoil between the cupcake liner and the muffin tin wall before adding batter and then baking them.

Contrary to the often shared knowledge – you do NOT get a heart shaped cupcake from this. You get a cupcake that looks like it is a scratch-n-dent special.

I blame Tupperware ladies for this rumor – they shared the tip at parties for 30 years.

How do you store Conversation Heart Cupcake?

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The best way to usually store your finished creations? Room Temperature.

Granted, they aren’t going to be around that long – my family of three could easily take them out in two to three days. Since you are using canned frosting instead of buttercream frosting or fondant, they should be fine for five to six days. You can learn more about that in our article How To Frost A Cupcake.

Our awesome Conversation Heart Cupcakes

You can make your cupcake bases as you see fit. I love to use my Best Yellow Cupcake Recipe from Scratch recipe but you could use a boxed cake mix too. They are on sale all the time, always just a buck at your local Dollar Tree store, and super easy to dress up so no one knows you used a boxed mix.

I often keep cupcake bases in my freezer for those times I want to whip up something fun and whimsical – like these Conversation Heart cupcakes or even my Oreo cupcakes.

I must admit – I am not in love with these and will probably try to improve on them later. The red gel icing needs to go and white lettering to replace it.

The conversation heart candy – just. nope.

But – these are a fun thing to let the kids decorate – and easily doable.

Conversation Heart Cupcakes Ingredients

Yellow cupcakes – cooled and at room temperature
White frosting – either canned or homemade
Blue, green, pink, and yellow food coloring
Red gel icing, for writing

How to make Conversation Heart Cupcakes

Divide your white frosting into 4 separate bowls.

In each bowl, add just a drop or two of food coloring to create 4 different pastel tones.

Place 3 dollops of frosting on each cupcake in the desired color, 2 at top and 1 in the middle, and smooth and shape into a heart or pipe the frosting on in a heart shape.

Use red gel icing to write words or symbols

See – this is what didn’t seem to really work for me. White – that is what is needed, even if the message won’t show up as well. And the candy was overkill –

What do you think?

Like our conversation heart cupcakes recipe? Try these fun ideas:

Happy Valentine’s Day!

How To Make Apple Shaped Cupcakes

How To Make Apple Shaped Cupcakes? Apple season is here! This means that it’s time to whip up a batch of apple shaped cupcakes. These cupcakes are perfect for school parties, thanksgiving dinner, or just as an after-dinner treat.

How do you like your cupcakes? How about apple shaped ones? If you are looking for an easy and fun recipe to make with the kids, look no further. This is a really simple recipe that will yield delicious results!

Why are apples linked to fall?

Apples are more than just a delicious fruit. They’re symbolic of the harvest season and a time to share our gratitude for all that we have in life with family and friends.

Apple pies, apple cider, apple crisps….apple everything!

On our main site, we have done recipes like Apple Pie Rolls That are Totally Brunch Worthy, Apple Pepper Jelly Made in the Instant Pot that is amazing poured over cream cheese as an appetizer or used to add a little zip to that ham or turkey sandwich. Beyond Easy Instant Pot Apple Butter is a classic for that fresh-baked bread, and the Apple Fritter Pull-Apart Bread will make you roll your eyes back up into your head when you take that first bite.

Of course, we can’t forget the classic staple: our Rustic Apple Pie Recipe. This screams “comfort food of fall” and is best served with french vanilla ice cream. The real kind that has the little black specks of vanilla bean in it – not the generic store brand poor cousin that is bargain prices. Even better? Cinnamon ice cream. Ahhh…I can taste it now.

Let’s talk a bit about Johnny Appleseed …

You can tie these apple shaped cupcakes into a lesson plan for the kids on Johnny Appleseed! Johnny Appleseed was a real person, born in 1774. His given name was John Chapman. He became known as “Johnny Appleseed” because he planted apple trees everywhere on his travels. He died at the age of 80 years old and his gravesite is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana – who to this day celebrates him with the Johnny Appleseed Festival.

What did Johnny do?

Johnny Appleseed planted apple trees He wanted to make sure the land was ready for people and animals and believed that apples would help lay the way for them.

What kind of apples did he plant?

Johnny Appleseed planted apple trees of many different types. He would plant the seeds and then cover them with dirt or moss to keep out weeds.

Did he just hand-plant these apples?

No, Johnny went all around Ohio planting apple trees – usually by throwing the seeds from his pockets into a hole in the earth – about six inches deep!

He’s become a part of Disney history with this video clip and song – which a lot of churches use with their children’s ministry. Do you think he could envision still being thought of almost 250 years after he was born? What a crazy notion, right?

What did John Chapman do for money?

He made some extra cash selling nursery stock and cidering supplies too. How cool is that?!

Fun Facts: Did you know that there are still over 300 varieties of apples grown in America today thanks to Johnny Appleseed’s efforts? And it wasn’t until 1893 when someone discovered how to get the juice out of them for that fun fall ritual, apple cider!

Now – let’s get back to that cupcake recipe….

How do you store Apple Shaped Cupcakes?

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The best way to usually store your finished creations? Room Temperature.

Granted, they aren’t going to be around that long – my family of three could easily take them out in two to three days. If you are using canned frosting instead of buttercream frosting or fondant, they should be fine for five to six days…but the pretzel stick will get soggy. You can learn more about that in our article How To Frost A Cupcake.

Apple Cupcake Recipe

I often keep cupcake bases in my freezer for those times I want to whip up something fun and whimsical – like these Apple Shaped cupcakes or even my Oreo cupcakes.

Apple Shaped Cupcake Ingredients

Yellow cupcakes – already and cooled to room temperature
Red and green frosting – either homemade or store bought
Pretzel sticks

That’s it!

I promise, I will make the next ones a little more challenging for you…

How to make apple shaped cupcakes

Bake cupcakes per recipe and cool completely.

Pipe green frosting with Wilton 233 tip to create grass around the outside of the cupcake. This is the same tip I use to make grass or hair on any cupcake.

Pipe red frosting with Wilton 1A tip in a wide round circle in the middle of the cupcake to create the apple.

Place a pretzel stick in the center of the apple

Pipe green frosting with Wilton tip 73 to create leaves next to the stem

Don’t they look yummy! Perfect for Teacher Appreciation Week!

Other apple cupcake recipes we have:

How to Make the Best Apple Pie Cupcakes
Caramel Apple Cupcakes
oops- that is it, I guess I am a slacker!

Other cupcakes we have done recently:

Santa Belt Cupcakes: An Easy Holiday Recipe

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holidays are a time for family, friends, and delicious treats (like Santa Belt Cupcakes!). In this blog post, we will share a very easy recipe that you can make with your kids. These cupcakes are sure to bring joy to everyone in your life – even if they don’t believe in Santa!

It includes an easy recipe with pictures and step-by-step instructions on how to make these festive treats. These Santa belt cupcakes are the perfect dessert for the holiday season!

Why do we all love Santa so much?

The answer is simple. Kids love Santa because he brings presents – it is pretty much ingrained in the littles as parents use him to curry favor with the idea of good behavior.

Adults love him because he’s magical and gives us hope in the darkest of times. I know it’s not like he is Jesus or anything, but the concept of “love thy neighbor” is usually pretty prevalent over the holiday season.

The history of Santa:

The legend goes that St. Nicholas lived in the fourth century and was a generous man who would give away his inheritance, secretly through the night to people he felt were less fortunate than himself. He became known as Father Christmas (or Santa Claus) which is Latin for “Saint Nicolas”.

He eventually died on December 25th of 343 AD, but not before becoming the patron saint of children everywhere!

His legacy lives on today when we celebrate with our families over the holidays…and eat tons of delicious food like our Santa belt cupcakes!

Do you love Christmas?

If you are like me and are a true fanatic of the holiday season – may I suggest you check out my website Joyful Xmas? There is a wide range of things on there from tasty treats to holiday legends. Recently I have been adding a lot of homemade ornament ideas and gift lists for the hard-to-shop-for people in our lives.

Christmas Cupcakes Ideas

We have played with a few fun ideas for Christmas Cupcakes already – if you are a fan of Elf on the Shelf you may want to make these with the kids: How to Make Elf Cupcakes: Elf Pet Saint Bernard. Is Junior in your church holiday pageant as an Angel? Celebrate the event with our Angel Wing Cupcakes. Even our Tree Shaped Fondant Christmas Cupcake Toppers make for a fun office treat when you use shredded coconut as your snow base!

We WILL be adding more fun gems to our Christmas Cupcakes Ideas section but are starting with our Santa Belt Cupcakes right now. I suppose you could add our Vanilla Snowflake Cupcakes Scream Winter Refreshment to the list too – after all, who doesn’t dream of a White Christmas?

How do you store Santa Belt Cupcakes

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The best way to usually store your finished creations?

Room Temperature. Granted, they aren’t going to be around that long – my family of three could easily take them out in two to three days.

Easy Santa Belt Cupcakes

You can use a boxed mix for your cupcake base or make them from scratch. We like our yellow cake recipe from scratch and used those. Either way, you need to make sure your cupcakes are totally cooled before going on to the next steps.

You can make your frosting from scratch – it can be a bit challenging to get the deeper and darker red color so we opted this time for a can of store bought frosting. I should have whipped it in my stand mixer for a bit with a cup of powdered sugar – you wouldn’t see the “bubbles” that seemed to pop after it was piped on to the cupcakes.

(sigh) Lesson learned.

Santa Belt Cupcake Ingredients

Yellow cupcakes
Red frosting
Black fondant for the belt & buckle
Gold glitter for buckle
Mini marshmallows, cut into quarters, for beard – if desired

Personally, I like them without the beard – but the kid loves the beard.

How to Make Santa Belt Cupcakes

Bake cupcakes per recipe and cool completely. (our recipe from scratch is located here: Best Yellow Cupcake Recipe from Scratch

Using a Wilton 1A tip pipe frosting on the cupcake and tap gently to create round belly rolls for Santa’s body. Less “pointy” is a good thing. The tap is what also popped my bubbles… ugh.

Roll a small piece of fondant into a rectangle shape and cut lengthwise to create the desired number of equal size belts for your cupcakes.

Lay the belts horizontally across the cupcake.

Shape another piece of fondant into a long rectangle and cut into desired number of pieces needed to create buckles

Gently press buckles into the gold glitter.

Place the buckle in the center of the belt – a tiny bit of water on your finger can act like the “glue” to hold it in place.

If the beard is desired, place cut marshmallows at the top of the cupcake in a beard shape.

Other fun cupcake ideas you may enjoy if you liked our Santa Belt Cupcakes:

How to Make Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes

How to Make Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes? Boston cream pie is a decadent dessert that has been popular in the United States since it was invented. The Boston cream pie cupcake recipe is a variation of this classic cake, allowing you to bake your favorite treat without having to make several larger cakes.

Perfect for any occasion, these Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are not only easy to make, but they are a delicious and decadent dessert that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

The perfect balance of cake, pastry cream, and chocolate ganache will leave you wanting more! This blog post will teach you how to create your own Boston cream pie cupcakes in four simple steps.

Is Boston Cream Pie really a cake?

Yes, it is usually a 2-layer yellow or sponge cake that is filled with thick vanilla custard and topped with a chocolate glaze or ganache. It is cut into wedges like a pie before it is devoured.

The History of Boston cream pie

Boston cream pie was invented in 1856 by a French Chef who was hired to run the kitchens for the opening of The Parker House Hotel. The hotel was famed for its Parker House rolls, and the new pastry chef wanted to honor this with a special recipe.

He took his inspiration from “chocolate cream pie,” which had been popular in France since at least 1839, according to Boston-based cookbook author Bill Corbett.

This version of chocolate cream pie was made by adding egg yolks to a custard that contained both chocolate and milk; once the eggs were incorporated into the mixture, it was poured onto a crust consisting of flour or cornstarch mixed with butter.

It’s unclear if he ever used French vanilla extract in his original recipe – but most modern recipes do call for it because it adds an extra layer of flavor. The first published recipe for a chocolate cream pie with an outer crust (instead of being served in ramekins) dates back to 1875, according to Corbett.

Needless to say, we are honoring that great historical treat with our own mini versions.

How do you store Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes?

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The best way to usually store your finished creations?

Room Temperature. Granted, they aren’t going to be around that long – my family of three could easily take them out in two to three days.

BUT, you are using a custard-filled gem here and then topped with chocolate ganache so you should keep these in the fridge. Keep in mind that the longer you keep them, the soggier the insides will become as that custard will slowly make the yellow cake mushy.

Boston Cream Pie with Vanilla Pudding?

That is one way to speed up the process, but it is SOOO worth making the pastry cream from scratch, as our recipe does.

If you choose to use a boxed cake mix, look at our tips on how to dress up a boxed cake mix.

Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes with Cake Mix

Best Ever Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes Ingredients:

Yellow cake mix recipe – you need yellow cupcake bases. You can either make them from scratch or with a boxed cake mix. Just make sure they are completely cooled before you move on to filling them and glazing them.

How to make Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes Pastry Cream:

2 egg yolks
6 tablespoons sugar
1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
1 cup + 2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla

Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes with Ganache.

Let’s face it – this adds a great layer to the flavor and is soooo much better than chocolate frosting.

What IS chocolate ganache?

Chocolate ganache is a 1:1 mixture of chocolate and warm cream. Stirred until smooth, silky, and shiny, ganache is a staple in any baker’s kitchen. It’s not only easy and quick, it’s uniquely versatile. Chocolate ganache can be a filling, dip, spread, frosting, topping, or layer in a cake.

Ingredients for our Chocolate Ganache:

12 oz semi sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons corn syrup
¾ cup + 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Homemade Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes Preparation Instructions:

Bake cupcakes per recipe, cool completely

How to make your pastry cream:

Place egg yolks in a bowl, beat slightly, set aside

In a saucepan over medium-high heat stir or whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and milk until smooth – cook, stirring constantly, until thick and bubbly

Reduce to medium heat, simmer for 2 minutes then remove from heat

Add a little milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisk

Then add eggs to milk mixture in saucepan

Boil lightly for 2 minutes, remove from heat and add butter and vanilla, stirring until smooth – set aside to cool

Scoop out a small piece in the center of the cupcake and fill with pastry cream

How to Make Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes: Making the Ganache:

Place chocolate chips and corn syrup in a large heat proof bowl

In a saucepan over medium high heat bring the cream to a boil

Pour cream over chocolate chips and allow to sit for 3-5 minutes, then whisk, allow to cool

For smooth, flat cupcake frosting spoon ganache in the center of the filled cupcake and gently push out to the side

To pipe the ganache, let it cool in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until firm then pipe onto filled cupcakes

Like our how to make Boston Cream Pie cupcakes? Check out these recipes:

How to Make Gnome Cupcakes They Will Adore

Ever wanted to know how to make gnome cupcakes? If you are looking for a cute and creative dessert, then this is the recipe for you. These adorable little guys will become the delicious treats everyone will ask for again and again!

Making gnome cupcakes is a great way to make your kids happy. Not only do they look adorable, but they taste delicious too! The simplicity out of making gnome hats out of waffle cones makes them even more fun for the kids. This post will teach you how to make these delightful treats!

But what is our fascination with Gnomes?

If you are going to look at how to make gnome cupcakes, you should know the gnome basics.

The gnome is a mythical creature that lives underground. They are usually depicted as short, bearded humanoids with pointy hats and funny clothes who speak an unintelligible language or use gestures to communicate.

We know you can’t live without them now! So what are you waiting for? Get your kids involved by making these adorable cupcakes today!

The Garden Gnome; A Culture All It’s Own

The Garden Gnome is not just another yard figurine. It has its own distinguished history, culture, and controversy attached to it. Before you buy a Garden Gnome for your home be sure to know all of the factors that go along with it.

For starters, the history of the Garden Gnome dates back to Germany in the 1800s. The original statues were made out of clay and were handcrafted. They then made their way to England in the mid-1800s. Around the late 1800s to the 1900s they made their way into America.

During WWII production of these figurines came to an abrupt halt. The German factories were commandeered and converted to support the war efforts. In the 1960s the gnomes picked up popularity again however, they were mass-produced using plastic. Because so many of them were produced they gained the stigma for being a tacky lawn ornament.

The clay hand-carved Garden Gnomes have been family heirlooms for many families. The Clay figurines are making a come back of sorts, more companies are reviving the old tradition.

Any Garden Gnome enthusiast will tell you that Garden Gnomes are wonderful creatures that are very good luck

to have in your garden. They are primarily vegetarians, joyful little people who enjoy having fun and helping out with things. It is believed that having one in your garden will be helpful in the day-to-day activities that are necessary for proper garden management. It is believed that they have an excellent ability to be able to reflect on history and an even better perspective on the future.

Not all people have such a jovial perception of the Garden Gnome. There are some that disagree with the use of these little guys. They believe that to have a Garden Gnome in the home is slavery and that the Garden Gnome should be freed.

There are groups that will take a Garden Gnome from a yard if they see it. Relocating it to the forest where they believe they find their freedom. A few of the groups choose to operate under the radar, sneaking into people’s yards and stealing these figurines. There is a political group that actively lobbies for the ban of Garden Gnome slavery.

Whether you are a follower of the Garden Gnome culture or just someone who thinks they are cute enough to go in your yard these figurines have a lot of history behind them and can be a wonderful addition to your yard. Just be sure to keep them away from the gnome liberators if you would like to keep them for a long period of time.

How to Make Gnome Cupcakes They Will Adore

You can make your cupcake bases as you see fit. I love to use my chocolate cupcake recipe but you could use a boxed cake mix too. They are on sale all the time, always just a buck at your local Dollar Tree store, and super easy to dress up so no one knows you used a boxed mix.

I often keep cupcake bases in my freezer for those times I want to whip up something fun and whimsical – like these witch hat cupcakes or even my Oreo cupcakes.

How do you store your Gnome Cupcakes?

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The best way to usually store your finished creations? Room Temperature. Granted, they aren’t going to be around that long – my family of three could easily take them out in two to three days. Since you are using canned frosting instead of buttercream frosting or fondant, they should be fine for five to six days. You can learn more about that in our article How To Frost A Cupcake.

Gnome Cupcake Ingredients

So, you will need sugar cones for the Gnome Hat Cupcake Toppers. They can be found at your local grocery store- I was lucky to score them at Kroger but they always have a 12-count box at your local Dollar Tree store.

Sugar ice cream cones – 1 for each cupcake
6-8 oz melting chocolate
1-2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
Red and white frosting
Soft yellow, pink, or peach colored jelly beans

Gnome Hat Cupcake Toppers

The first thing you will want to do is to make the Gnome hat cupcake toppers. They need a little time to set up before you fully assemble your adorable little garden guy creations.

Melt chocolate and shortening together to make the chocolate thin enough for dipping the cones.

Dip cones in chocolate and set aside or place in refrigerator to set

how to dip an ice cream cone in chcolate

Pipe red frosting on each cupcake

Place a chocolate dipped cone on top of each cupcake at a slight angle

Pipe the beard onto the center front of the cupcake using a tip that will create the look of hair. I used Wilton tip 233.

Place a jelly bean in the middle of the beard, right at the base of the cone for the nose.

Your gnome is ready!

Other whimsical cupcake designs you may enjoy if you liked how to make Gnome cupcakes:

How to Make Witch Hat Cupcakes the Easy Way

How to make witch hat cupcakes? Making witch hat cupcakes is a fun way to get in the Halloween spirit! These mini cakes are easy enough for kids to make and they’re also delicious.

Making witch hat cupcakes for Halloween is surprisingly easy. You don’t need to be a pastry chef or have any fancy kitchen tools to make these fun and festive treats, just a little bit of time! Check out this recipe for how to make witch hat cupcakes with step-by-step instructions and pictures.

Halloween Witch Hat Cupcakes

The witch is certainly a powerful and popular figure, and the witch has appeared and reappeared in myths, cultural stories, legends, and literature through the ages.

In fact, in almost every culture, in almost every period, you can find a witch-like figure. There is Lilith, a female witch-demon who appears in Jewish folklore, as well as Iranian, Christian, Greek, Mexican, and Arab literature.

In recent years, there are the young wizards and witches of J.K. Rowlings beloved Harry Potter series. It is rare indeed to go an entire Halloween night and not see a few dozen Harry Potter Halloween costumes.

So which witch do you want to be for your Halloween costume? Do you want to be a spooky witch, a green-faced witch, or even a good witch? Below I’ve given a brief explanation of three popular witch figures and legends, as well as some suggestions on how to make a great witch Halloween costume.

I’ll Get You, My Pretty!

Often, the first witch people think of is the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz, with her flowing black robes, pointed black hat, buckle shoes, warty nose, and emerald green skin. Add in a good cackle, maybe even a flying evil monkey and you’ve got a great Halloween costume.

It’s also a good Halloween costume to make at the last minute. You just need some black clothing, green face paint, a household broom, and some brown or black makeup. If you can scrounge up a black hat, you’ll surely be instantly recognized as a witch. Many Halloween costume shops sell or rent out witch costumes, which is often cheaper and less time-intensive than buying all your items individually.

Double, Double Toil and Trouble.

For those Shakespeare buffs out there, why not find two good friends and go as the three witches from William Shakespeare’s Macbeth? Actually, if you have a group of four friends, have one of you dress up as Hecate, the powerful and historic witch of the night.

As Shakespeare does not provide too much detail about the witches’ costumes, you and your friends can let your imagination decide what your Halloween costumes will look like. You could even rent one of the many versions of Macbeth (Scotland, PA is a particularly odd one), and see how other people have imagined the witches.

This Halloween costume gives you a great excuse to dress up as a spooky, dark witch and memorize some beautifully creepy Shakespearean witch lines like Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air.

I Saw Sarah Good with the Devil! I Saw Goody Osburn with the Devil!

My last suggestion for a witch Halloween costume is to do a little research about the Salem Witch Trials and Arthur Millers The Crucible. Most people encountered The Crucible in high school classes.

It is a play detailing a witch-hunt that occurs in a Puritan community. This sounds like an odd lead-in to Halloween costume advice, but Millers’ tale about people accusing others of witchcraft and dancing with the devil in the forest provides a lot of fun possibilities for Halloween costumes.

Like the Macbeth witches, this could be a great group Halloween costume idea. Have some bewitched Puritans, have some religious folk, and maybe even a witch or a devil.

Witch Hat Cupcakes Recipe

I often keep cupcake bases in my freezer for those times I want to whip up something fun and whimsical – like these witch hat cupcakes or even my Oreo cupcakes.

How do you store The Best Little Shop of Horror Witch Hat Cupcakes?

Witch Hat Cupcake Ingredients

So, you will need sugar cones for the With Hat Cupcake Toppers. It can be found at your local grocery store- I was lucky to score them at Kroger but they always have a 12-count box at your local Dollar Tree store.

For Witch Hat Cupcakes you will need:

Chocolate cupcakes, cooled are ready to decorate.
Sugar ice cream cones, 1 for each cupcake
Any round, flat cookie, 1 for each cupcake
Green and purple frosting
Sprinkles – again, you can get these at the Dollar Tree.
10-12 oz chocolate
1-2 tablespoons of vegetable shortening

Witch Hat Cupcake Toppers

The first thing you will want to do is to make the witch hat cupcake toppers. They need a little time to set up before you fully assemble your Halloween Witch Hat Cupcake creations.

Melt chocolate and shortening together to make the chocolate thin enough for dipping the cookies and cones.

Dip cookies and cones in chocolate and set aside or place in refrigerator to set

how to make witch hat halloween cupcakes

How to Make Witch Hat Cupcakes

Pipe frosting onto cooled cupcakes, alternating colors as you wish

Pipe a line of frosting around the opening of the cone and place it in the center of the cookie to create the witch hat.

Pipe frosting all the way around where the cookie and cone meet and pour on sprinkles to create a hatband.

Place the hat on top of cupcake.

Pipe a thin square shaped buckle in the center front of the hat band.

Your witch hat cupcakes are ready to entertain your spooky guests with!

If you liked how to make witch hat cupcakes, you may like these recipes:

Easy Melting Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes Recipe For Kids

This recipe is a fun way to serve up ice cream in cupcake form. You can make these Melting Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes with any flavor of cake mix and frosting you like, so they are perfect for any occasion! These fun cupcakes require only a few ingredients and roughly 30 minutes of your time – what could be better?

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes how to store

If you’re looking for an easy dessert idea that the kids can help you make, look no further.

Easy Melting Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes Recipe

Melted ice Cream Cones are just a fact in summer. Occasionally, it is so hot that they melt before you can get that cold dairy goodness in your mouth.

What is the worst thing to happen? When part of that ice cream actually falls off your cone! Or how about when you actually drop your ice cream cone and it lands upside down, on the ground.

I won’t lie, this is definitely me when I drop my ice cream…..

(sigh)

That is why I have an easy melting ice cream cone cupcakes recipe. Let’s turn that unhappy possibility into a whimsical treat that reminds us that life may be full of surprises, but we can still enjoy it.

How do you store Melting Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes?

The best way to usually store your finished creations? Room Temperature. Considering the buttercream frosting, they should be fine for five to six days. You can learn more about that in our article How To Frost A Cupcake.

Just like any of our cupcake recipes, you can make the cupcake bases in advance. I actually have some red, white, and blue cupcakes in my freezer right now for July 4th.

Generally, the rule of thumb is that if you plan to frost and enjoy them within a couple of days you should be storing your cupcakes at room temperature. If you do not plan to frost or enjoy them within a couple of days then it’s best to freeze them.

You can learn more about Batch Baking During the Winter Months in my other post if you want to, but batch baking and freezing are some of my trade secrets. Rarely would I pop them in the fridge – the constantly circulating air dries them out too much.

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes how to transport

Some people have a tough time figuring this out logistically. I personally think it is a lot easier than trying to transport my ice cream cone cupcakes.

These are a cupcake with funky toppings – so they SHOULD fit even in the generic cupcake carriers that your local dollar store sells.

That makes them VERY easy to transport.

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes recipe

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes with cake mix? Yes, these start with a boxed cake mix. This recipe is intended to be made with the kids and you teach them reading skills, measuring (math) skills, and how to follow instructions in a step-by-step manner.

If you don’t want to use a boxed cake mix, feel free to use one or two of our recipes to make the cupcake bases: Best Yellow Cupcake Recipe from Scratch or Best Chocolate Cupcake Recipe, or Strawberry Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe.

Why not make all three and mix it up a bit?

What is Neopolitan Ice Cream?

Neapolitan ice cream consists of three layers, each of a different color and flavor (chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla), molded into a block and cut into slices. That is the inspiration for these melted ice cream cone cupcakes – you will see the three same flavors of frosting used: chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla.

Not only does it make for a great color combination when you are serving them, it makes it easier to serve a crowd where a few picky people are hiding.

Get this – my dad doesn’t like chocolate. At. All.

Isn’t that twisted? Even birthday cakes have to be something like angel food cake.

I think he is adopted….

How to Make Melted Ice Cream Cupcakes

These are SUPER easy to make with the kids – and they can learn a lot of lessons while baking. 7 Ways Kids Learn From Cooking is a great article for parents to read and shows you why it is important to get in the kitchen with the littles!

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes ingredients

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes how to make

Yellow cake mix and all the items that the boxed mix calls for
Chocolate canned frosting or make your own
Vanilla canned frosting or make your own
Strawberry canned frosting or make your own
Ice cream cones
Sprinkles

I like to get my sprinkles at the local dollar store – The Dollar Tree has a nice sized shaker for just a buck, compared to the grocery store price of $4.

Bake your cupcakes:

Line your cupcake tins with cupcake liners and preheat your oven to what the boxed cake mix asks for – usually 350 degrees.

Bake cupcakes per the recipe on the box and cool them completely before going on to the next step.

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes decorating

Alternate frosting flavors per preference… if you are using canned frosting, you really have a lot of choices to play with.

Scoop a good size dollop of frosting on the cupcake – it’s supposed to look a little messy and “melty”

Place the cone at an angle on top of the frosting. Again, this is super easy for the littles to do!

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes quick and easy

Add the sprinkles…

Melting ice cream cone cupcakes are quick and easy as well as a super fun activity for the kids to do!

If you are looking for other great things for doing with the kids, you really need to check out this fun site – she started college at the age of 9 and has a TON of fun and FREE printables for kids: Sarah Lyn Gay.

Other cupcake recipes you may find fun:

The Most Amazing Coffee Cake Cupcakes Recipe

If you are looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dessert recipe that will impress your guests at any party then look no further. The most amazing coffee cake cupcakes recipe is here and it will not disappoint!

These moist, fluffy delights are sure to please everyone’s sweet tooth with their incredible flavor. So what are you waiting for? Get out your oven mitts and start baking up some of these awesome treats today!

The Most Amazing Coffee Cake Cupcakes Recipe

Who doesn’t love a great coffee cake? How about cupcakes? The best of both worlds in one delicious recipe! These delectable, moist and fluffy Coffee Cake Cupcakes are the perfect treats for any occasion. Get your ingredients ready to whip up these scrumptious treats today!

History of coffee cake

Coffee cake is a type of sweet yeast bread that originated in Europe, particularly Hungary. Some people beg to differ and say Germany, or Austria specifically. With its dense and moist texture, it can be eaten as an alternative to dessert or served for breakfast with coffee.

The dough contains baking powder and/or baking soda (to provide the typical cakes’ lightness) butter and eggs which give the crumb softness, sweetness, and richness.

Other ingredients usually include sugar, vanilla extract (though sometimes replaced by cinnamon), lemon zest, or citron peel garnish; raisins are often used once they have been soaked in water as well additional flavorings like rum-soaked cherries.

It is called coffee cake as it is served WITH coffee – not that it usually contains coffee. While it MAY contain coffee – that isn’t very common in any coffee cake recipe.

My Coffee Cake Recipe

When we had our restaurant, we whipped up a coffee cake that had a streusel topping and a cinnamon swirl inside. It was basically a yellow cake – that helped make it a bit sweeter.

These cupcakes are a fresh take on that treat that we always sold out of.

Coffee cake cupcakes with cake mix

Yes, these cupcakes are based on a boxed cake mix. If you want to make your yellow cupcake bases from scratch – feel free to use our recipe: Best Yellow Cupcake Recipe from Scratch.

Just remember, you need to pop a layer of the cinnamon swirl crumb mix in the middle of them – you can see more below on how to do that.

How do you store Coffee Cake Cupcakes?

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The bases of these can be made WEEKS in advance and popped into your freezer.

When you are ready to finish them off, you take out the night before and leave at room temperature to thaw out.

The best way to usually store your finished creations? Room Temperature.

Granted, these are so freaking delicious that they aren’t going to be safe that long. You can learn more about that in our article How To Frost A Cupcake.

Cinnamon Coffee cake cupcakes

Why is cinnamon so great? Why is it so popular in coffee cake recipes?

Cinnamon is a popular ingredient not only because of its flavor but also because it has been shown to help regulate blood sugar.

Add that to the health benefits of a cuppa in the morning and you are starting your day of well.

If it makes you feel any better, you can simply refer to these as coffee cake muffins.

How to make Coffee cake cupcakes

While these coffee cake cupcakes start with a yellow cake mix, there are a few steps involved to make the swirl in the cupcakes, then the crumb topping, and finally to drizzle the glaze over them.

Trust me – they are soooo worth it.

Coffee Cake Cupcakes With Cake Mix

Yes, we are using a yellow cake mix to base these off of – my favorite brand? Sale. What ever is on sale.

You can usually get a boxed name brand cake mix for a buck – at your local grocery store. If the local stores aren’t accommodating you with their sales fliers, then you might want to hit your local dollar store. The Dollar Tree ALWAYS has cake mixes for a buck.

Coffee cake cupcakes recipe Ingredients:

Recipe for Coffee cake cupcakes ingredients

Recipe for Coffee cake cupcakes Cinnamon Swirl Middle:

¼ cup sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Recipe for Coffee cake cupcakes Frosting:

Store bought vanilla frosting
1 tablespoon cinnamon

Recipe for Coffee cake cupcakes Crumb Topping:

3 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon no salt butter, room temperature

Recipe for Coffee cake cupcakes Icing Drizzle:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2-4 tablespoons of milk
1 teaspoon vanilla

Recipe for Coffee cake cupcakes:

In a small bowl combine cinnamon swirl ingredients and then set it aside.

Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners and preset your oven temperature.

Whip up the batter for the yellow cake mix, according to the package.

Create the cinnamon swirl in the cupcake by layering the cake mix, swirl mix, and cake mix.

Bake cupcakes per the box recipe, and let them cool completely.

Recipe for Coffee cake cupcakes crumb topping

Stir crumb topping ingredients until well combined, set aside.

Stir cinnamon into the vanilla frosting.

coffeecake cupcakes recipe with cinnamon frosting

Lightly frost each cupcake, just enough to hold crumb topping in place. Trust me on this – that layer adds SO MUCH flavor to your finished cupcakes. Do NOT skip the cinnamon.

Sprinkle on or dip cupcake into crumb topping. Dipping is easier and fun for the kids to help you with.

Mix icing drizzle ingredients together, adding milk one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Drizzle that fantastic icing over your crumb-topped cupcakes.

Now, call a friend, put on a pot of coffee, and have a visit.

Other recipes you may find fun:

How to Make the Best S’mores Cupcakes

What makes perfect S’mores cupcakes? The perfect S’mores Cupcake starts with a moist chocolate cake, iced with fluffy marshmallow frosting. Finally, there comes a layer of crushed graham crackers on top!

These s’mores cupcakes are easy to make and taste like that decadent campfire dessert without all the flame.

How to Make the Best S’mores Cupcakes

You have to know what S’mores are before you can turn them into a cupcake

History of s’mores

No one knows for sure who invented the s’more. However, the first published recipe for “some mores” was in a 1927 publication called Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts. Loretta Scott Crew, who made them for Girl Scouts by the campfire, is given credit for the recipe.

It is said that s’mores were originally created in 1922 at a campfire. A group of Girl Scouts made them for the first time and then brought S’mores back to their troop. There are different variations, but they have all been influenced by this recipe from an original one that was invented over 100 years ago!

Back then, it was called a graham cracker sandwich.

How did they get the name “S’mores”?

S’more is a contraction of the phrase “some more”. It is said that both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts would always ask for some more – and eventually, it stuck. By 1938 this tasty treat was officially called s’mores in the camping guides for kids.

By 1957 even Betty Crocker was in on the recipe.

How to make s’mores

S’mores are traditionally cooked over a campfire, although they can also be made at home over the flame of a wood-burning fireplace, in an oven, over a stove’s flame, in a microwave, or with a s’mores-making kit.

Honestly, I hate microwaved marshmallows – I don’t think they really get “toasted” they just frow and get gooey. They will puff up when heated in the microwave and then deflate back down as they melt and cool…and make a sticky mess.

S’mores have influenced a lot of treats

Everything from Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts to Girl Scout Cookies – you can find a variation of the graham cracker, marshmallow, and chocolate bar treat.

These S’mores cupcakes are our own take on it – and yes, we incorporate all three ingredients to make a delightful delicacy.

How do you store S’mores Cupcakes?

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The best way to usually store your finished creations? Room Temperature.

Granted, with a Marshmallow topping, they aren’t going to be safe that long at room temperature. This is the ONE exception I make to sticking them in the fridge – normally I say “no” to the fridge, but this is a rare exception. You can learn more about that in our article How To Frost A Cupcake.

S’mores cupcakes nutrition facts?

Puh-Leeze. People actually search this and it cracks me up. What kind of nutrition do you actually expect to get from cupcakes? Fiber? Protein?

Let’s face it – cupcakes are here to help provide us with those 3 simple things we all crave: salt, sugar, and fat.

That is why they are so freaking delicious.

DIY S’mores cupcakes

These s’mores cupcakes with graham cracker crumb topping are basically just gooey chocolate S’more cupcakes. We make the marshmallow frosting from scratch and THAT is what makes all of the difference in this recipe.

If you want to get really creative – you can serve them like we show here: on a rustic wooden slice platter with a faux campfire in the middle.

Isn’t that just adorable and a great way to bring the outdoors inside?

S’mores cupcakes from scratch

You will need a chocolate cupcake base for these – You can use our recipe below to make them from scratch or your can use a chocolate cake mix to make your bases if you are looking for s’mores cupcakes quick.

Our Chocolate Cupcake Recipe

You will need:

2 C sugar
1 3/4 C flour
3/4 C cocoa
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 eggs, room temp
1 C whole milk, room temp
1/2 C canola oil
2 tsp vanilla*
1 C boiling water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake tins with paper liners.
Whisk the sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Combine the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla in another bowl. Add this to the dry ingredients beating on medium until the batter is smooth.
Gradually add the boiling water, milk, and oil and blend together until the batter is smooth.
Using a medium scoop fill the paper-lined cupcake tins with the prepared batter.
Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Allow to slightly cool before transferring to wire racks.

Let them cool completely before starting to decorate them.

S’mores cupcakes ingredients:

Chocolate cupcakes
2 graham crackers, crushed fine

S’mores cupcakes frosting ingredients:

2 egg whites
½ cup sugar
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
½ teaspoon vanilla

S’mores cupcakes recipe:

Bake chocolate cupcakes and cool completely.

Crush graham crackers, place in small bowl, set them aside.

S’mores cupcakes marshmallow frosting:

In a bowl over simmering water whisk egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar until the sugar melts.

Remove from heat and use hand mixer to whip until stiff peaks form

Place frosting into piping bag and frost cooled cupcakes

Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the top

Other cupcake recipes you may enjoy:

Mouth-watering and Delicious Watermelon Cupcakes

Watermelon cupcakes? On a hot summer day, there is nothing like biting into a crisp, cold slice of juicey red melon. I love how refreshing and simple it is.

I must say, I am a fan of the heirloom variety – that has the seeds. It just seems sweeter to me than the genetically modified version that has no seeds. The bonus? You can have a seed spitting contest with your family and friends!

How to Make Watermelon Cupcakes

Watermelon is packed with water, up to 90% in fact, which helps to keep you hydrated in the hot summer heat.

Where did watermelons come from?

These beautiful melons are native to Africa and Asia, but today they grow almost anywhere – like in California. They came to America with the African American slave trade – one of the very very very few good things that came out of that dark period of our history.

Jazz and BBQ were the only other things I can think of that were born out of that era also.

What is the best way to eat watermelon?

Watermelons are really juicy, so it is usually just cut into slices and eaten fresh. You can also make watermelon juice – which I will do for my recipe below!

What else is watermelon used for?

The rind of the watermelon can be preserved to use as a natural dye because it has pigments that create shades of pink or red depending on how long you cook the fruit.

It has been juiced, dehydrated, and turned in to jellies. The rind has even been turned into pickles – wasting not a single bit of that fun fruit!

However, the watermelon season only lasts a few short months. We need to take advantage of it while we can! That is when I came up with the idea for these delicious watermelon cupcakes. It seemed like a great way to enjoy that refreshing flavor all year round…or at least the fun colors of it.

Can you make Watermelon Cupcakes in Advance?

Just like any of our cupcake recipes, you can make the cupcake bases in advance. I actually have some chocolate cupcakes in my freezer right now for the 4th of July. Generally, the rule of thumb is that if you plan to frost and enjoy them within a couple of days you should be storing your cupcakes at room temperature.

If you do not plan to frost or enjoy them within a couple of days then it’s best to freeze them. You can learn more about Batch Baking During the Winter Months in my other post if you want to, but batch baking and freezing are some of my trade secrets. Rarely would I pop them in the fridge – the constantly circulating air dries them out too much.

How do you store Watermelon Cupcakes?

Here is the thing – with the more futzy designs, I like to make them in advance of an event or get-together. The best way to usually store your finished creations? Room Temperature. Using store-bought frosting eliminates some of the challenges of buttercream or fondant, so they should be fine for five to six days. You can learn more about that in our article How To Frost A Cupcake.

Easy Watermelon Cupcakes

There are many recipes for watermelon cupcakes out there, but this one is sure to be a hit with your friends and family! This recipe includes a step-by-step guide on how to make these delicious treats.

How to Make Watermelon Cupcakes

This starts with a boxed mix so it can be beyond easy to make with the kids. Duncan Hines has a nice strawberry-flavored mix and is often on sale for just a buck. You also use canned frosting – so by keeping the list of ingredients short, it is a fun, family project.

Watermelon Jell-O cupcakes

If you can’t find a box of strawberry flavored cake mix for this recipe, then try using a vanilla (white) cake mix and 1 box of Strawberry Jello. Still follow the instructions on the box of the cake mix – but you will have your pink, strawberry cupcakes!

You will need:

Strawberry cake mix
All items that the boxed mix requires
White vanilla frosting
Green food coloring
Mini chocolate chips

DIY Watermelon cupcakes Instructions:

Prepare cake mix according to the recipe on the box and add ½ to 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter. These will serve as the “seeds” of the inside of the watermelon.

Bake cupcakes according to the boxed mix instructions and then let them cool completely.

Add green food coloring to frosting until the desired color is reached.

Stir until well combined and place in a piping bag with a star tip.

Frost cooled cupcakes and sprinkle on additional mini chocolate chips for garnish and your Watermelon decorated cupcakes are complete!

Your Watermelon looking cupcakes are now ready to share – or just sit there by yourself and rip into them like a monkey on a cupcake.