Description
Celebrate the holidays with these adorable Santa Hat Cupcakes. Fluffy cupcakes are topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla buttercream frosting, fresh strawberries, and sugary sprinkles to resemble festive Santa hats. Easy to assemble and perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcakes
- 24 cupcakes, baked and cooled
Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons half and half or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 24 strawberries, washed and tops cut off
- White sugar sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of half and half, beating until smooth. Add the additional half and half as needed to reach a spreadable consistency. Beat on high speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cupcakes: Using a piping bag or spatula, pipe or spread the frosting in a flat circle on top of each cooled cupcake. Place a strawberry, cut side down, on top of the frosting to resemble the tip of a Santa hat. Add a small dollop of frosting on the pointed end of the strawberry as the hat’s pom-pom. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of white sugar sprinkles over each cupcake for added festive sparkle.
- Serve: These cupcakes are best served immediately to keep the strawberries fresh and vibrant. Enjoy your festive Santa Hat Cupcakes at your holiday celebrations!
Notes
- Ensure the cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- You can substitute half and half with heavy cream for a richer frosting.
- Use fresh, firm strawberries for best results and easier handling.
- Store leftover cupcakes in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
- For piping, a round tip works well to create the frosting base and the pom-pom on the strawberry.
