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Cute Ghost Cupcakes: Best Halloween Treats

cute ghost cupcakes - featured image

Soft, moist vanilla cupcakes topped with fluffy white buttercream and cute marshmallow ghost faces. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for Halloween parties or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted (for frosting)
  • 23 tbsp heavy cream (for frosting)
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (for frosting)
  • ¼ tsp salt (for frosting)
  • 1 pack mini marshmallows
  • Black licorice strings or edible food markers

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes).
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
  5. Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix on low until combined. Add milk and mix again. Add remaining dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. While cupcakes cool, make the buttercream: Beat softened butter until creamy. Add sifted confectioners’ sugar one cup at a time on low speed. Increase speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes. Add heavy cream, vanilla bean paste, and salt; beat on high for 3 minutes until fluffy.
  10. Pipe or spoon frosting onto cooled cupcakes.
  11. Place two mini marshmallows for eyes and a small piece of licorice for a mouth on the soft frosting. Press gently to adhere.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender. Let frosting crust slightly for 10 minutes before adding marshmallow faces to prevent sliding. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween cupcakes, ghost cupcakes, marshmallow ghosts, easy baking, Halloween treats, vanilla cupcakes, buttercream frosting, kid-friendly recipes