I always love baking! Especially as the holidays come around.
This semester, Arts-n-Ed offered a “Let’s Get Crafty” arts and crafts class, and we make all sorts of creative things. Reindeer Cupcakes were our latest creation! It was fun, easy and very sweet!! The kids had an absolute blast so if you’re looking for an afternoon activity, you have to give this a try. Here’s what you’ll need:
- unfrosted cupcakes
- chocolate frosting
- vanilla wafers
- m&ms
- mini pretzels
- candy eyes
*Thankfully, this is an opportunity to be creative so you can make substitutions!
Side note! This is one of the things I loved about being able to decorate cupcakes virtually with my class. In person, there are learners who have allergies or who’s parents like to limit sugar intake which makes it hard to do activities like this with an entire class. I was excited that parents took the liberty to make marshmallow frosting instead of a dairy based frosting, use skittles instead of m&m’s and even make vegan cupackes so that each learner could have a blast participating. It was sooo much fun!
Step 1: Start with an unfrosted cupcake!
This is a fun chance to bake with your learner. Yes, you can grab some cupcakes from the store, but baking is a great way to get your learner involved! They can read the directions, measure the ingredients, set a timer – it’s all math!
Step 2: Frost the cupcake!
I make my frosting from scratch, but you can easily buy this as well. Be sure to use a good amount of frosting so that all the added elements stick!
Step 3: Add your cookie!
Grab one vanilla wafer and place it on the cupcake so that the bottom of the cookie is on the edge of the cupcake. Do not place the cookie in the center.
Step 4: Add a nose!
Use a small bit of frosting to stick an m&m on the top edge of your vanilla wafer. (I choose brown for all of my cupcakes except one…gotta have Rudolf!) Quick tip – put the frosting on the side that has the “m” on it. That way, you won’t see it when you place it on your vanilla wafer.
Step 5: Add your eyes!
I always keep candy eyes on hand ( I do a lot of fun baking!). However, if you don’t have any, you do not have to run to the store and buy some. Remember, this is a time to get creative! Try using m&ms, chocolate chips, even a little frosting! Place your “eyes” just above your m&m and cookie, right in the frosting.
Step 6: Add the antlers!
Grab two mini pretzels and stick them in the frosting at the top of your cupcake. You can even break parts of the pretzel off to make it more life-like.
Step 7: ENJOY!
You did it! Look at that yummy masterpiece!
