Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Candy apples make me think of carnivals and fall festivals! What don’t they make me think about? Cupcakes. That said, I still decided to combine the two (with chocolate, none the less). And, they were super yummy! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I am not a baker. We can’t all be the Cake Boss. Even though I’m completely a from-the-box kind of mom when it comes to baking those school party or PTA bake sale treats, I do like to get my creativity out.

 I don’t have a ridiculously scrumptious recipe for cake or frosting (if you do, feel free to add a link to the comments section below). What I do have are a few artsy ideas for taking a super-simple cupcake mix recipe from blah to bling. As a bonus, it makes baking even more fun for the kids! Not only can your child boost her math skills by measuring, learn properties of matter science lessons by watching the baking processes, but she can get creative and make cupcake art.

This fall themed treat recipe is insanely simple, but so tasty. I really couldn’t stop eating these (yes, I have poor self-control when it comes to sweets). So, if you’re expecting a chef-quality blueprint to follow, you won’t find it here. But, if you’re looking for a creatively cute way to dress up a cupcake that doesn’t require years at pastry arts school, you’re in the right spot.

Here’s What You’ll Need:

·        Chocolate cake mix – I used the box stuff, but if you have a favorite recipe, go for it.

·        Caramel sauce – Apple dip cuts out a sticky cooking mess.

·        Green gumdrop candies – I found leaf-shaped ones that were perfect for the top of the apple.

Here’s What to Do:

1.     Mix the cake batter. If you want to add another layer of “apple” to your cupcakes, swap out the oil for applesauce. While kids can help to measure and mix, never allow your child to do the actual baking (i.e., don’t let her use or near the oven).

2.     Cut the top off of one cupcake and place it on top of the other to make a round, apple shape. Use a layer of caramel to hold the two pieces together.

 

3.     Coat the top of the cupcake stack with caramel sauce.
 

4.     Push gum drop leaves into the top. If you’re using regular gumdrops, cut them into slices to make pieces that resemble leaves.

Are you looking for more cupcakes? Follow my Pinterest board for ideas!

Follow Mini Monets and Mommies's board Cupcakes! Yum! on Pinterest.