Description
These spooky Zombie Brain Cupcake Treats are perfect for Halloween or any fun-themed gathering. With a light and fluffy cupcake base topped with pink buttercream and fondant decorations, they are as delicious as they are decorative!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 package of fondant (white or pink)
- Pink food coloring
- ½ cup corn syrup (optional for sweetness)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcakes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tray with 12 liners. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Buttercream Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract. Add milk to reach the desired consistency. Mix in a few drops of pink food coloring to achieve a pale pink shade.
- Prepare the Fondant Brain Decoration: Knead the fondant until pliable. If using white fondant, knead in pink food coloring until evenly colored. Roll small portions of fondant into thin ropes and shape the ropes into brain-like patterns on a flat surface. Add corn syrup for added sweetness if desired.
- Assemble the Cupcakes: Frost the cooled cupcakes with a thin layer of pink buttercream. Gently place the fondant brain decorations on top, pressing slightly to secure.
Notes
- Use a small amount of cornstarch or powdered sugar to prevent fondant from sticking when shaping.
- For authentic-looking brains, focus on creating twisting patterns with the fondant ropes.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container to keep the fondant from drying out.
- Feel free to add extra flavored extracts like almond or coconut for unique cupcake flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake