Description
These Easy Reindeer Cupcakes are a festive and fun treat perfect for holiday celebrations. Moist chocolate cupcakes are topped with a rich homemade cocoa buttercream frosting and decorated with mini pretzels, candy eyes, and red M&Ms to resemble adorable reindeer faces. They’re simple to make, kid-friendly, and sure to bring holiday cheer to any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcakes
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or your favorite cupcake recipe)
- Ingredients needed for the cake mix (eggs, oil, water, etc.) as per package instructions
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Decorations
- Mini pretzels (for antlers)
- Red M&Ms or red candy (for Rudolph’s nose)
- Candy eyes (available at baking supply stores)
- Mini marshmallows (optional, for a snowy look)
Instructions
- Prepare Cupcakes: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Prepare the chocolate cupcake batter as directed by the package or your recipe, then evenly divide the batter into a lined cupcake pan. Bake for the time recommended, usually about 18-22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before decorating.
- Make Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy and smooth using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well until combined. Add milk one tablespoon at a time to achieve a spreadable consistency. Stir in vanilla extract and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
- Frost Cupcakes: Using a knife or piping bag, generously frost each cooled cupcake with the chocolate buttercream. Make sure the frosting is thick enough to hold the decorations securely.
- Decorate the Reindeer Faces: Place two candy eyes near the top center of each cupcake. Insert mini pretzels on each side above the eyes to create antlers. Place one red M&M or red candy in the center front for Rudolph’s nose. Optionally, scatter mini marshmallows around the cupcakes to add a snowy festive touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange cupcakes on a platter and serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and taste.
Notes
- Ensure cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
- You can substitute red candy with small strawberries or cherries for a natural nose alternative.
- Mini pretzels can be gently broken if needed for smaller antlers.
- Store cupcakes in a cool place to keep the decorations intact and frosting firm.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all candies and decorations are gluten-free.
