A Whimsical Treat for Any Occasion
Transport yourself to a whimsical wonderland with these delightful Rabbit Hole Cupcakes! Bursting with flavors of chocolate and orange and adorned with charming decorations, these cupcakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Perfect for themed parties, Easter gatherings, or any occasion where a touch of magic is desired, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
For the cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups sifted cake flour, spooned and leveled
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 teaspoon pure orange extract
For the frosting and decorations:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 (16-ounce) package confectioners' sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon orange gel paste food coloring
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 orange for zest
- 3/4 cup crushed chocolate wafer cookies (12 cookies)
- 12 small mint sprigs
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line 12 standard muffin cups with liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and nutmeg.
- Add oil and beat with an electric mixer until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating until incorporated after each addition. Beat in vanilla.
- Stir in grated carrots and chopped pecans.
- Transfer batter to prepared muffin cups, dividing evenly.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Transfer cupcakes to a wire rack and cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Frosting
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, and salt until creamy.
- Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar.
- Beat in vanilla and orange zest until fluffy.
- Transfer 3/4 cup of frosting to a separate bowl and add orange food coloring, and orange zest stirring until combined. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a 3/4-inch piping tip.
- Sift cocoa over the remaining frosting and beat until combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes
- Using a melon baller or small measuring spoon, create a hole in the center of each cupcake about 3/4 inch wide and 1/2 inch deep.
- Spread chocolate frosting on cupcakes, leaving the hole unfrosted.
- Roll or sprinkle crushed cookies over the frosting.
- Pipe orange frosting into the holes, extending slightly above the cupcake tops.
- Insert mint sprigs to resemble "carrots."
- For added fun, place cupcakes in mini flower pots for whimsical décor.
Indulge in the magic of these Rabbit Hole Cupcakes, where every bite takes you on a journey down the rabbit hole to a world of sweetness and delight. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a special treat, these cupcakes are bound to enchant all who taste them. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and embark on a culinary adventure that's sure to leave a lasting impression!
Photos by
Treshawn Fraser