Gnome Cupcakes
These Gnome Cupcakes are an adorable and whimsical treat that is sure to impress at any gathering. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or a fun baking day with kids, these cupcakes combine delicious moist cake with creative, fun gnome decorations. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow, and you can get creative with the toppings. Let’s bring a little magic to your kitchen with these charming, delicious treats!
Ingredients
- For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk or dairy-free alternatives such as almond or oat milk
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional for extra flavor
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or dairy-free milk
- Blue food coloring optional for gnome hats
- For the Gnome Decorations:
- 12 marzipan balls or fondant if marzipan is unavailable
- Red fondant for gnome hats
- Small candy pieces for noses like chocolate chips or mini marshmallows
- Black icing for eyes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.
- Prepare the Cupcake Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until fully combined. Mix until smooth.
- Bake the Cupcakes:
- Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of milk. For a fun gnome look, add a few drops of blue food coloring.
- Decorate the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of each. Shape the marzipan (or fondant) into gnome hats and place them on top of the frosted cupcakes. Use a candy piece for the nose and pipe black icing for the eyes. Place the gnome decoration on top.
Notes
Decorating the Gnomes: Get creative with the gnome decorations! You can make different colored hats or add small details like scarves or beards from fondant.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use non-dairy butter and milk for a vegan version.
Flavor Variations: Add lemon zest or almond extract to the batter to give the cupcakes a unique flavor.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!