Festive Christmas Light Cupcakes

1. Prepare the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with festive cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the sour cream for extra moisture.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Buttercream Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add green food coloring a little at a time, mixing until the desired shade of green is achieved.

3. Decorate the Cupcakes:

1. Frost the Cupcakes:
   • Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe a swirl of green frosting onto each cupcake. Alternatively, spread the frosting with an offset spatula for a simpler look.
2. Create the “Light String”:
   • Arrange a strand of black licorice on the frosting to mimic the string of Christmas lights. Alternatively, use black decorating gel to draw a wavy line across the frosting.
3. Add the M&M “Lights”:
   • Press mini M&Ms along the “string” in a random pattern to create the effect of colorful Christmas lights. Use red, green, blue, yellow, and orange M&Ms for a festive, bright look.

Tips for Success

• Cupcake Variations: You can make chocolate or gingerbread-flavored cupcakes instead of vanilla for a holiday twist.
• Frosting Options: If you don’t have black licorice or gel, you can use dark chocolate piping to create the string effect.
• Festive Liners: Use holiday-themed cupcake liners to add extra cheer.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Decorate on the day of serving for maximum freshness.

Serving and Storing:

These Christmas Light Cupcakes are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

• Festive Appeal: The colorful M&M “lights” bring a joyful and whimsical holiday vibe to the table.
• Simple Yet Stunning: Easy to decorate, even for beginners, but impressive enough for any holiday party.
• Customizable: Use your favorite cupcake and frosting flavors to make them uniquely yours.

Bring the holiday spirit to life with these delicious and delightful Christmas Light Cupcakes! Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in, they’re sure to brighten everyone’s day.

[adinserter name=”Block 5″