Apple Spice Cupcakes

Name: Apple Spice Cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 package spice cake mix (regular size); 1-1/4 cups water; 3 eggs; 1/3 cup applesauce; 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

11 ingredients

4 steps

Ingredients

1 package spice cake mix (regular size)
1-1/4 cups water
3 eggs
1/3 cup applesauce
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

Directions

1

In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, water, eggs and applesauce on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium for 2 minutes.
2

Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350° for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
3

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in food coloring.
4

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.