Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes are an adorable and festive dessert that brings joy to kids and adults alike. These cupcakes are baked directly in ice cream cones, making them a playful twist on traditional cupcakes. They are perfect for Fall parties, school events, or birthday celebrations. The combination of moist cake, creamy frosting, and candy decorations ensures that each bite is as delightful as it looks. With candy eyes, candy corn feathers, and chocolate frosting, these turkey cupcakes are not only visually appealing but also a fun hands-on activity for kids. Using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can create these charming desserts.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
List of Ingredients with Measurements
Cupcake Base
- 1 box cake mix, prepared according to package instructions (chocolate recommended, gluten-free optional)
- 18 ice cream cake cones (gluten-free if desired)
Frosting & Decorations
- 1 can store-bought chocolate frosting or homemade chocolate buttercream
- 36 candy eyes
- 2 tablespoons sprinkles
- 90 pieces candy corn (5 per cupcake: 1 for beak, 4 for feathers)
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- Use your favorite cake flavor instead of chocolate for variety.
- Frosting can be replaced with vanilla, cream cheese, or peanut butter frosting.
- Candy decorations can be substituted with small chocolate candies, mini marshmallows, or fruit pieces.
- For a healthier version, use natural sweeteners or reduced-sugar cake mixes.
How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix package. Use an electric hand mixer to ensure a smooth and lump-free batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cupcakes dense. Use a muffin scoop to evenly portion the batter into a greased muffin or cupcake pan. Fill each cup about ⅔ full to allow space for the ice cream cone and rising cake.
Step 2: Adding the Ice Cream Cones
Place an upside-down ice cream cone on top of the batter in each muffin cup. Make sure the cone is centered and gently press it slightly into the batter. This will create the base for your turkey’s body and help it hold its shape while baking.
Step 3: Baking the Cupcakes
Bake the cupcakes at 350°F for 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cones; they should not burn while the cake bakes. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan. Proper cooling is essential before frosting, as warm cupcakes can cause frosting to melt and decorations to slide off.
Step 4: Frosting the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost each one with chocolate frosting. You can spread the frosting evenly with an offset spatula or pipe it for a more decorative look. The frosting acts as the base for the turkey’s face and helps the candy decorations stick securely.
Step 5: Decorating the Turkey Faces
Decorate each cupcake with candy eyes, a single candy corn for the beak, and sprinkles as desired. For the turkey feathers, insert four candy corn pieces around the top of the cone with the pointed ends down into the frosting. Adjust placement for a full and symmetrical look. These playful decorations give each cupcake a unique and festive appearance, perfect for the Thanksgiving table.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
Best Ways to Serve
Serve these cupcakes at room temperature to enjoy the rich chocolate flavor and maintain the integrity of the candy decorations. They are ideal for family gatherings, classroom parties, or festive events.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
- Pair with hot apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, or milk for a comforting fall treat.
- Arrange cupcakes on a tiered stand or a decorative platter for a colorful centerpiece.
- For parties, place each cupcake in a clear plastic cup with candy or mini M&Ms at the bottom to stabilize the cone while adding a playful touch.
How to Store Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
Proper Storage Methods
- Keep cupcakes in the pan they were baked in, loosely covered with aluminum foil to stabilize the cones.
- Store at room temperature for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days, though candy decorations may soften slightly.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
- Do not heat decorated cupcakes, as candy pieces may melt.
- Cupcakes can be baked ahead and stored unfrosted for freezing. Decorate only before serving.
Tips to Make Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling muffin cups, which can cause batter to overflow around the cones.
- Baking at too high a temperature, risking burnt cones or uneven cake.
- Decorating while cupcakes are warm, which can result in melting frosting and sliding candies.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
- Use a muffin scoop for uniform cupcake portions.
- Keep candy decorations cool to prevent melting while decorating.
- Place cupcakes in plastic cups or muffin liners to stabilize cones during display or transport.
Variation of Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
- Use vanilla or spice cake instead of chocolate for a seasonal flavor twist.
- Decorate with colorful autumn sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or edible glitter for extra flair.
- Make mini versions for bite-sized treats at classroom parties.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and cones.
- Dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and frosting.
- Nut-free: Ensure candy decorations do not contain nuts and use nut-free frosting.
FAQs
What can I do if the cupcakes topple over?
Use clear plastic cups or small cupcake holders to stabilize the cones during display and transport. Placing a little foil around the base of the cone also helps.
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cupcakes ahead of time and store unfrosted in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage. Decorate just before serving for best results.
What can I substitute for the candy decorations?
- Candy eyes can be replaced with mini chocolate chips or fondant.
- Candy corn can be swapped with fruit pieces, chocolate buttons, or colored icing for the feathers and beak.
