Create these fun spring-inspired cupcakes with this easy do-together recipe. Your kids will enjoy discovering the jelly bean surprise in the center.
1 box vanilla or white cake mix
Muffin tins (regular-sized or mini-sized)
Colorful cupcake baking cups
1 bag small colorful jelly beans
1 one-lb. box confectioners' sugar
1 stick softened butter (not margarine)
3-4 tsp. milk or soy milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Assorted food dyes
1 tube green decorative food gel
Step 1
Preheat the oven according to the cake recipe instructions. Set up the muffin tins and add the baking cups. Prepare your favorite cake mix according to the instructions on the box.
Step 2
Add the mix to the baking cups and put in the oven to bake.
TIP: Mini-muffin tins are ideal for making kid-sized treats.
Step 3
When the cupcakes have baked for about 6-8 minutes (depending on your oven) add two jelly beans to the center of each baking cup.
The cupcakes need to bake a little before adding the jelly beans. If you add them at the very beginning of the baking process, they'll sink to the bottom instead of being suspended in the center.
While the cupcakes are baking, prepare the butter cream frosting.
Step 4
Mix the confectioners' sugar with the softened stick of butter, vanilla extract, and enough of the milk to make the frosting spreadably smooth. If you want your frosting to have color, add several drops of your favorite food dye. Use sparingly to keep the colors bright.
Step 5
Once the cupcakes have cooled, top with the frosting. Let your kids help you decorate the tops by using the jelly beans to create flower patterns. Draw in leaves or flower stems with the decorative gel.
