Christmas Tree Cupcakes
There’s something truly magical about the holidays, and Christmas Tree Cupcakes perfectly encapsulate that joy. I remember the first time I made these festive treats; it was a chilly December afternoon, and the scent of chocolate filled my kitchen. As the cupcakes baked, I imagined the excitement on my family’s faces when they would see these delightful little trees. With their vibrant green frosting and sparkly decorations, they were not just desserts; they were little pieces of holiday cheer. Whether it’s a family gathering, a classroom party, or just a way to indulge in the spirit of the season, these cupcakes bring smiles all around.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
20 mins
20 mins
Medium
350 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
18 g
Mixing Bowls, Electric Hand mixer or Stand mixer, 12 cup muffin pan, Cupcake liners, Star Punch
What We Adore About This Christmas Tree Cupcakes
Perfect for All Ages
One of the reasons I absolutely love Christmas Tree Cupcakes is that they’re a hit with both kids and adults. Everyone enjoys the whimsy of these festive treats, and kids love to help decorate them.
Creative Decorating Options
The decorating possibilities are endless! You can use different types of sprinkles, edible glitter, or even fondant to create unique designs. It’s a fun way to express your creativity and personalize each cupcake.
Easy to Make
If you’re nervous about baking, fear not! The process of making Christmas Tree Cupcakes is straightforward and forgiving. Even if your cupcakes aren’t perfect, the frosting and decorations will hide a multitude of baking sins!
Great for Gift Giving
These cupcakes make wonderful gifts during the holiday season. Package them in a festive box, and they become a delightful present for friends, neighbors, or co-workers.
Deliciously Chocolatey
The rich chocolate flavor of these cupcakes is simply irresistible. The combination of cocoa powder and butter creates a moist texture, making each bite a little piece of heaven.
Family Tradition
Making Christmas Tree Cupcakes can easily become a cherished family tradition. Set aside time each year to bake and decorate them together, creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Essential Ingredients for Christmas Tree Cupcakes
The ingredients for Christmas Tree Cupcakes are the heart of this festive treat. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. From the rich chocolate batter to the creamy frosting, these ingredients come together beautifully.
- ¾ cup (90g) all purpose flour: This provides structure to the cupcakes, ensuring they rise nicely.
- ⅓ cup (67g) cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor that complements the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise and achieve a light texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 2 large eggs: These provide moisture and contribute to the cake’s structure.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and gives a delightful tenderness.
- ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist and adds richness.
- ½ cup (120ml) milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the batter.
- 2 teaspoons (30ml) pure vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet flavor.
- 1½ cups (340g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature): Essential for the frosting, giving it a rich, creamy texture.
- 5½ cups (650g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and provides structure.
- 2 teaspoons (30ml) vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk: Helps achieve the desired consistency for the frosting.
- Green food coloring: Used to create the festive green hue of the tree frosting.
- Sprinkles or sugar pearls: For decoration, adding a festive touch.
- Red fondant (optional): Can be used to create decorations like small packages.
- Gold fondant (optional): Adds a glamorous touch to your decorations.
- Gold lustre powder (optional): For a shimmering finish on the decorations.
Recipe Directions for Christmas Tree Cupcakes
Making Christmas Tree Cupcakes is a joyful process that will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s get started on these sweet, festive treats!
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), or 140°C if using a fan oven. Line a muffin baking pan with 12 cupcake liners, making sure they fit snugly in the cavities.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You want to see the sugar mostly dissolved.
- Stir in the milk next, mixing until everything is just blended.
- Now, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Gently add the all purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix everything together until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. This will allow space for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Start by whipping the softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl for about 2 minutes until it’s light and creamy.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, starting at a low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase the speed and whip for an additional minute.
- Add the vanilla extract, milk, and a few drops of green food coloring. Mix again until everything is well combined and the frosting is smooth.
- To decorate, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create tree-shaped swirls of frosting on each cooled cupcake. Get creative with the height and shape!
- Sprinkle the cupcakes with sprinkles or sugar pearls for a festive touch. If using red fondant, you can create small packages and place them next to the tree.
- For a finishing touch, use gold fondant rolled into stars and dusted with gold lustre powder for the top of each tree.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for Holiday Parties: These cupcakes are a festive treat for any holiday gathering, bringing a touch of whimsy to your dessert table.
- Great for Kid-Friendly Events: Kids love these cupcakes, making them ideal for birthday parties or school functions.
- Accompany with Hot Cocoa: Serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa for a warm and cozy treat during winter.
- Gift Giving: Package them up in a pretty box with a ribbon for delightful homemade gifts for friends and family.
- Storage Tips: Keep unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If frosted, store in the fridge for up to five days.
- Pair with Holiday Cookies: Serve with a variety of holiday cookies for an impressive dessert spread.
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t Overmix: It’s crucial to mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting; warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt.
- Coloring the Frosting: For a vibrant green, start with a small amount of food coloring and gradually add more until you achieve the desired shade.
- Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too stiff, add a splash of milk; if it’s too runny, mix in more powdered sugar.
Recipe Notes about Christmas Tree Cupcakes
These tips will help you perfect your Christmas Tree Cupcakes and ensure they come out beautifully every time.
- Storage: Keep unfrosted cupcakes for up to a week at room temperature in an airtight container. Frosted cupcakes can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
- Freezing: You can freeze these cupcakes before frosting. Just wrap them tightly and store for up to three months.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors in the cake or frosting. Peppermint extract can add a festive twist!
- Decoration Ideas: Get creative with your decorations! Use colorful sprinkles or themed cupcake toppers for a personal touch.
- Batch Size: This recipe easily doubles if you need to make more cupcakes for a large gathering.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Christmas Tree Cupcakes, they shine at holiday gatherings. Pair them with a warm beverage, such as hot chocolate or spiced cider, to enhance the cozy atmosphere. These cupcakes are perfect for casual family dinners, festive parties, or as a delightful treat for children. You can also consider presenting them on a decorative platter, showcasing their vibrant colors and whimsical design. For an added festive touch, consider serving them with a side of whipped cream or ice cream to elevate the experience even more. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in pretty boxes or tins, spreading holiday cheer to friends and loved ones.
FAQ
Conclusion
Christmas Tree Cupcakes are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones. Their whimsical design and rich chocolate flavor make them a standout treat at any gathering. I encourage you to try making these festive cupcakes, as they are sure to bring smiles and joy to your table. Happy baking!
Christmas Tree Cupcakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), or 140°C if using a fan oven. Line a muffin baking pan with 12 cupcake liners, making sure they fit snugly in the cavities.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You want to see the sugar mostly dissolved.
- Stir in the milk next, mixing until everything is just blended.
- Now, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Gently add the all purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix everything together until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. This will allow space for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Start by whipping the softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl for about 2 minutes until it’s light and creamy.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, starting at a low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase the speed and whip for an additional minute.
- Add the vanilla extract, milk, and a few drops of green food coloring. Mix again until everything is well combined and the frosting is smooth.
- To decorate, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create tree-shaped swirls of frosting on each cooled cupcake. Get creative with the height and shape!
- Sprinkle the cupcakes with sprinkles or sugar pearls for a festive touch. If using red fondant, you can create small packages and place them next to the tree.
- For a finishing touch, use gold fondant rolled into stars and dusted with gold lustre powder for the top of each tree.
