Create the holiday magic with these Classic Christmas Tree Cupcakes! Fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with festive buttercream trees and sparkling decorations are sure to bring joy to your celebrations.
Preparation and Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
- Decorating Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size:
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
List of Ingredients with Accurate Measurements:
For the Vanilla Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Green gel food coloring
For Decoration:
- Star-shaped sprinkles or candies
- Mini colorful sprinkles
- Powdered sugar (for snow effect, optional)
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
5. Fill and Bake:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the Frosting:
In a bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed. Stir in the vanilla and heavy cream, then beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes until fluffy. Add green gel food coloring until the desired shade is achieved.
7. Decorate the Christmas Trees:
- Transfer the green frosting into a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
- Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes in a swirling motion to form a Christmas tree shape.
- Add star-shaped sprinkles on top as tree toppers and mini colorful sprinkles as ornaments.
- Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect (optional).
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These cupcakes are perfect for holiday gatherings or as edible gifts!
Accurate Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 375
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 39g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
Notes and FAQ:
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Frost and decorate just before serving.
Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! A cream cheese frosting also pairs beautifully with these cupcakes.
How do I store decorated cupcakes?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Are there other decoration options?
Get creative! Use edible glitter, fondant stars, or chocolate chips for unique tree decorations.