I saw these cute cakes at a grocery store and decided to make my own version at home. They’re a hit at any fall gathering.
—JENNIFER DORFF WAUKESHA, WI
PREP: 1 1/2 HOURS • BAKE: 20 MIN. + STANDING • MAKES: 1 DOZEN
1 package spice cake mix (regular size)
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 large eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup canola oil
3/4 cup chopped walnuts
ORANGE GLAZE
7 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon maple flavoring
Red and yellow food coloring
GARNISH
3 cups confectioners’ sugar
3 tablespoons water
Green food coloring
4 Tootsie Rolls (2 1/4 ounces and 6 inches each), cut into 2-inch pieces
1. In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds; beat on medium for 2 minutes. Fold in walnuts. Spoon by 1/2 cupfuls into 12 greased miniature fluted tube pans. Bake at 350° until set, about 20-25 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
2. For the glaze, in a large bowl, beat the confectioners’ sugar, water and maple flavoring until smooth; tint orange with red and yellow food coloring. Place wire racks with cakes over waxed paper. Spoon half of the glaze evenly over tops and sides of cakes, letting excess drip off. Let stand until glaze is set. Repeat with remaining glaze.
3. For the garnish, in a small bowl, beat the confectioners’ sugar and water until smooth; tint green. Cut a small hole in the corner of a pastry or plastic bag; insert a #4 round pastry tip. Fill bag with green frosting. Pipe vines on the pumpkins. For stem, insert a Tootsie Roll piece in the center of each pumpkin.