Description
These whimsical Gnome Cupcakes bring a magical touch to any celebration. Featuring moist vanilla or chocolate cupcakes topped with creamy buttercream frosting and adorable fondant decorations shaped like gnome hats and faces, these treats are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for parties or festive gatherings, each cupcake is a delightful blend of classic flavors and charming design.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box vanilla or chocolate cake mix (or homemade recipe)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water (or as per box instructions)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Decorations
- 1/4 lb fondant (white, red, and skin tone colors)
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch (for rolling the fondant)
- 1 small edible marker (for facial features)
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (for gnome noses)
- Edible glitter (optional, for extra sparkle)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Prepare the cake mix according to the box instructions or your homemade recipe. Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the cupcakes for 18-20 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, remove the cupcakes and let them cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and two tablespoons of milk. If the frosting is too thick, add milk gradually until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Cupcakes: With the cupcakes cooled, spread a generous layer of buttercream frosting on top of each cupcake using a spatula or butter knife, smoothing it evenly across the surface.
- Make the Gnome Hats and Faces: Roll out a small piece of red fondant dusted lightly with cornstarch into a cone shape to form the gnome hat. Place the hat on top of the frosted cupcake. Then, roll skin-tone fondant into a small circle and flatten it slightly to create the gnome’s face, positioning it just below the hat on the cupcake.
- Add the Nose: Roll a small ball of white fondant and gently press a mini chocolate chip into it to form the gnome’s nose. Attach this nose to the center of the fondant face on the cupcake.
- Add Facial Features: Using the edible marker, draw small eyes, a smile, and any other desired features onto the fondant face to personalize your gnome. Optionally, mold additional small fondant pieces for eyebrows or eyes for extra detail.
- Finishing Touches: For an extra magical effect, sprinkle edible glitter over the gnome hats or the entire cupcake to give a sparkly finish that enchants your guests.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your charming Gnome Cupcakes are now ready to be served. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any festive occasion, these cupcakes are sure to delight kids and adults alike.
Notes
- You can customize the cupcake flavor by choosing either vanilla or chocolate cake mix, or using your favorite homemade recipe.
- Make sure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting and decorating to prevent melting.
- When rolling fondant, lightly dust your surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Edible markers are food safe and can be found at specialty baking or craft stores.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Allow refrigerated cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
