Christmas Tree Cupcakes
Delightful festive cupcakes shaped like Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings and family fun.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cupcakes
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil or applesauce
- 0.75 cup sour cream Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute
- 0.75 cup heavy cream
- 4 pieces eggs Can substitute with flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water)
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 0.25 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp espresso powder Optional for enhanced chocolate flavor
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- 2 cups butter Cold and cut into chunks
- 10 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp vanilla
- 0.5 cup heavy cream Plus 2 tablespoons
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 drop Green Gel Food Coloring Adjust amount to desired shade
- Golden Star Sprinkles For decoration
- Holiday Sprinkles For decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your workspace with all ingredients and equipment.
Making the Cupcake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, cocoa powder, and espresso powder.
- Add vegetable oil, sour cream, heavy cream, and eggs. Mix until smooth and combined.
Baking the Cupcakes
- Line a cupcake pan with liners and fill each about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooling the Cupcakes
- Remove from oven and cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Buttercream Frosting
- Beat cold butter in a large bowl until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy.
Coloring the Frosting
- Add green gel food coloring to the frosting and mix until the desired shade is achieved.
Frosting the Cupcakes
- Use a piping bag to frost each cupcake in a circular motion to create a tree shape.
Decorating the Cupcakes
- Sprinkle golden star sprinkles on top and add holiday-themed sprinkles around the edges.
Serving the Cupcakes
- Arrange the cupcakes on a platter and enjoy with family and friends.
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Notes
Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting.