Printable | Taste of Home

Apple Spice Cupcakes

1 package (18-1/4 ounces) spice cake mix
1-1/4 cups water
3 eggs
1/3 cup applesauce
FROSTING:
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners' sugar
Red paste or liquid food coloring
24 pieces black licorice (3/4 inch)
12 green spice gumdrops

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cake mix, water, eggs and applesauce

Printed from tasteofhome.com May 17, 2008

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Apple Spice Cupcakes cont.

on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Fill
paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350° for 18-22
minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes
before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. In a
small bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla until fluffy.
Gradually add sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in food coloring.
Frost tops of cupcakes. Insert licorice into centers for apple stems.
Cut gumdrops in half; flatten and pinch to form leaves. Place one
leaf next to each stem.

Yield: 2 dozen.