Gnome Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cupcakes are customizable, fun, and kid-friendly. Soft, moist cupcakes are topped with creamy frosting and decorated like adorable gnomes.

Ingredients

• 1 box of vanilla cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake recipe)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of water
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1 batch of buttercream frosting (store-bought or homemade)
• Red, white, and beige food coloring
• Mini marshmallows
• Chocolate chips
• Candy melts (optional for hat decorations)
• Sprinkles (optional for additional decoration)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely.
5. While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream frosting. Divide the frosting into three bowls.
6. Color one bowl red, one beige, and leave one white.
7. Once the cupcakes are cool, frost them with the beige-colored frosting to cover the entire top.
8. For the gnome hats, pipe the red frosting into a cone shape on top of the cupcake.
9. Add a mini marshmallow to the center of the cupcake for the gnome’s nose.
10. Optional: Decorate the hats with sprinkles or small candy melts for added flair.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 cupcakes and takes about 1-1.5 hours from start to finish.

Variations

• Seasonal Gnome Cupcakes: Add seasonal accessories to match holidays, such as using green frosting for a Christmas theme or orange for Halloween.
• Different Flavors: Try using chocolate or red velvet cake mix for a twist on flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store gnome cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cupcakes (without decorations) and thaw before decorating.

FAQs

1. How long do gnome cupcakes last?

They last up to 2 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

2. Can I use a different frosting?

Yes, you can use cream cheese frosting or even whipped cream frosting for a lighter texture.

3. How do I make the cupcakes gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure the frosting ingredients are also gluten-free.

4. Can I use store-bought cake mix?

Absolutely! Using a store-bought cake mix will save time and still give you a delicious result.

5. How do I store the cupcakes?

Keep the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to store them longer, freeze them undecorated and decorate once thawed.

6. How do I make the hats stay in place?

You can secure the hats with a bit of extra frosting or even a toothpick if necessary.

7. Can I make the cupcakes in advance?

Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day ahead and decorate them the next day.

8. Are these cupcakes suitable for kids to make?

Yes, these cupcakes are simple enough for kids to help decorate, and they’ll enjoy the creative process.

9. Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without the decorations. Thaw them before decorating.

10. Can I make mini gnome cupcakes?

Yes, simply adjust the baking time (about 12-15 minutes) for mini cupcakes.

Conclusion

Gnome cupcakes are fun, creative, and a hit for any occasion. Whether for a party, school event, or just a fun family project, these cupcakes will bring joy to everyone! With endless decorating possibilities, you can make them for any season or celebration.