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4th of July Firework Cupcakes

  • Author: ChefEmma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

4th of July Firework Cupcakes are festive vanilla cupcakes decorated with red, white, and blue frosting and candy firework toppers—perfect for Independence Day celebrations.


Ingredients

  • 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
  • 1 tub (16 oz) vanilla frosting
  • Red and blue food coloring
  • Red, white, and blue sprinkles
  • 24 cupcake liners
  • Optional: licorice strings, rock candy sticks, or decorative picks for ‘firework’ toppers


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. Prepare vanilla cake mix according to package instructions.
  3. Divide the batter evenly among the liners and bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
  4. Divide the vanilla frosting into three bowls. Tint one red, one blue, and leave one white.
  5. Spoon each color into a piping bag, or use a three-color swirl piping technique to combine colors for a firework effect.
  6. Frost each cupcake in a swirl pattern and decorate with sprinkles.
  7. Add licorice strings, rock candy, or festive picks on top to resemble fireworks.
  8. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Use gel food coloring for vibrant frosting without thinning it.
  • Freeze cupcakes unfrosted for up to a month; thaw and decorate the day of.
  • Let kids help decorate their own cupcakes for a fun holiday activity.