Bring these extra-special cupcakes to your next event and watch how quickly they disappear! Kids will go for the fun appearance and tasty toppings, while adults will appreciate the tender spiced cake underneath.
—DIANE HALFERTY CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
PREP: 25 MIN. • BAKE: 20 MIN. + COOLING • MAKES: 1 DOZEN
1package spice or carrot cake mix (regular size)
2cups chopped peeled tart apples
20caramels
3tablespoons 2% milk
1cup finely chopped pecans, toasted
12Popsicle sticks
1. Prepare cake batter according to the package directions; fold in the apples.
2. Fill 12 greased or paper-lined jumbo muffin cups three-fourths full. Bake at 350° for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pans to wire racks to cool completely.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the caramels with milk over low heat until smooth. Spread over the cupcakes. Sprinkle with pecans. Insert a wooden stick into the center of each cupcake.