Christmas Tree Christmas Cupcakes (From Scratch Recipe)

You should know that I am a huge fan of Christmas. My new recipe for Christmas cupcakes in the shape of Christmas trees is at the top of my baking list this year! 

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If you’re looking for a fun and festive treat to share with family and friends, these Christmas Cupcakes are just the ticket.

They’re not only delicious but also a blast to decorate—it’s like combining christmas cookies and cupcake recipes into one yummy dessert!

We have so much fun swirling the green frosting to create little edible Christmas trees. You should see Lily helping with them!!

The best part was adding the sprinkles and watching her face light up with pride. The hard part is getting her to let us eat them, haha! 

I get it, they’re stinkin adorable. But they’re also just plain tasty. Don’t hesitate for to long to dig in. Be sure to snap some pics first!

Trust me, these cupcakes are a hit at Christmas parties and make for a memorable baking experience.

So, grab your mixing bowls and let’s get started on these delicious Christmas cupcakes that are sure to become a new family tradition!

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Jump to:

• WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
• INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):
• HOW TO MAKE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKES:
• FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:
• WHAT’S A SUGAR CONE?
• CAN THESE BE MADE AHEAD?
• ANY ADDITIONS?
• ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?
• HOW TO STORE:
• DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:
• Christmas Tree Christmas Cupcakes (From Scratch Recipe)

1. Festive and Fun: Decorating these cupcakes as Christmas trees brings joy and creativity to your kitchen—perfect for the holiday season.
2. Simple Ingredients: Using common pantry items, this recipe is easy to follow and great for bakers of all levels.
3. Delicious Flavor: The combination of moist chocolate cake and creamy buttercream frosting makes these cupcakes irresistible.

• Eggs
• Brown sugar (or white sugar)
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Cocoa powder
• Milk
• Chocolate chips (optional)
• Vanilla extract
• Greek yogurt or plain yogurt
• Butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Green gel food coloring
• Sprinkles
• Sugar cones
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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For the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes frothy.
3. Gradually add half of the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda, sifting, and mix until just combined.
4. Add the yogurt to the mixture and blend until smooth.
5. Mix in the cocoa powder, chocolate chips, vanilla extract and milk until everything is well combined.
6. Add the remaining flour and gently fold it into the batter until just incorporated with no dry patches.
7. Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full or 3 tablespoons of batter.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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For the Buttercream:

1. In a stand mixer or in a large bowl bowl with an electric hand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Sift in the powdered sugar and mix on low speed until fully combined and smooth. If the buttercream is too thick, add one tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
3. Add a few drops of green gel food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed.

Assembly:

1. Cover each sugar cone with a thin layer of green buttercream, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Gently press a coated sugar cone onto the top of each cupcake, ensuring it is secure.
3. Using a piping bag fitted with a small star tip, pipe the remaining buttercream onto each cone to create the appearance of tree branches.
4. Add sprinkles to the buttercream trees and lightly dust with powdered sugar to mimic snow.

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WHAT’S A SUGAR CONE?

A sugar cone is a type of ice cream cone that’s sweet and crispy.

The kind you always asked for as a kid!

Unlike waffle cones, sugar cones have a pointed tip and a sturdier texture.

In this recipe, we use them upside down on top of the cupcakes to create the shape of a Christmas tree.

You can find sugar cones at most grocery stores in the ice cream section.

CAN THESE BE MADE AHEAD?

Yes, you can definitely make these cupcakes ahead of time!

Bake the cupcakes and prepare the buttercream frosting up to 1-2 days in advance.

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature and keep the frosting refrigerated.

Assemble and decorate the cupcakes just before serving to keep them looking fresh and festive.

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ANY ADDITIONS?

I’m thinking of all kinds of decorations that would be super cute! There are flavor options too.

• Use red velvet cupcakes instead of chocolate for a colorful surprise.
• Fill the cupcakes with white chocolate chips for a melty center.
• Add peppermint extract to the frosting for a minty twist.
• Decorate with candy canes broken into small pieces for extra flair.
• Sprinkle edible glitter over the trees to make them sparkle.
• Top each cupcake with a star-shaped candy to mimic a tree topper.
• Mix in some sour cream to the batter for extra moistness.
• Create snowmen cupcakes alongside the trees for a full winter scene.
• Use different shades of green frosting to add depth to the trees.
• Incorporate holiday sprinkles into the batter for a funfetti effect.

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

Yep! Check out this list and let me know what you think in the comments!

• Greek yogurt: Substitute with regular plain yogurt or sour cream.
• Brown sugar: Use white granulated sugar if you prefer.
• Buttercream frosting: Swap for cream cheese frosting for a tangy flavor.
• Green gel food coloring: Natural food coloring can be used, though colors may be less vibrant.
• Sugar cones: If unavailable, use ice cream wafer cones or mold melting chocolates into cone shapes.
• Chocolate chips: Omit or replace with nuts or dried fruit if desired.

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Room Temp

• Store assembled cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezer

• Freeze undecorated cupcakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
• Thaw at room temperature, then decorate before serving.

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These Christmas Cupcakes are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

They’re a fun addition to any holiday party or bake sale, and they’re sure to impress your guests with both their looks and flavor.

So put on some holiday music and enjoy making these themed cupcakes together. Happy baking and happy holidays!