These adorable Halloween Skeleton cupcakes featuring the face of Jack Skellington are the perfect addition to your Halloween party. Fun, spooky, and perfect for kids and adults alike, these cupcakes are a showstopper for any Halloween gathering.
Ingredients of Skeleton Cupcakes
- Chocolate cake mix (prepared according to package instructions)
- Canned chocolate frosting
- Chocolate cookie sprinkles (see note)
- White fudge covered pretzels
- Large marshmallows (standard S’mores size)
- Mini marshmallows
- Black edible food coloring pen
Equipment
- Purple foil cupcake wrappers
- 6-inch lollipop sticks
Instructions
Prepare and Frost the Cupcakes
- Prepare the chocolate cupcakes according to the package directions with the purple foil cupcake wrappers. Cool completely.
- Using a small icing knife, spread the chocolate frosting in an even layer over each cupcake.
- Sprinkle with chocolate cookie sprinkles to resemble dirt.
Draw the Skeleton Faces
- Using a black edible food coloring marker, draw a skeleton face onto the flat side of each larger marshmallow.
Assemble the Skeletons
- Insert the lollipop stick straight up into a cupcake, about ⅓ of the way across the surface.
- Thread a mini marshmallow onto the stick, then thread a white pretzel through the smallest opening. Repeat two more times so you have 3 sets of “ribs”. Top with another mini marshmallow.
- Add the marshmallow face on top.
- Break small pieces of pretzels to make the skeleton arms and carefully place them on the top pretzel “rib” through the two larger openings.
How to Serve
Serve immediately for the best presentation. These cupcakes are ideal for Halloween parties, school events, or a spooky dessert table.
How to Store
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate, but assemble the skeletons just before serving to maintain their shape.
Tips for Best Results
- Use large marshmallows for the skeleton head for a better drawing surface.
- Be gentle when threading pretzels and mini marshmallows to avoid breaking them.
- Chocolate cookie sprinkles add texture and the appearance of “dirt” for a more realistic look.
Recipe Variations
- Substitute vanilla cupcakes for chocolate for a lighter skeleton base.
- Use colored candy melts to decorate the skeleton for a festive twist.
- Create smaller skeletons using mini cupcakes and toothpicks instead of lollipop sticks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake and frost cupcakes a day in advance. Assemble skeletons just before serving.
Can I use homemade cupcakes instead of mix?
Absolutely! Any chocolate cupcake recipe will work.
What if I don’t have black edible markers?
You can use black icing or gel tubes to draw the skeleton faces.
