Panda Cupcakes

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Panda Cupcakes.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C).

2. Step 2

   Prepare your baking tools by greasing a 24-cup mini muffin tin and a 12-cup mini muffin tin, or opt for paper liners for easy removal.

3. Step 3

   In a spacious bowl, sift the rich cocoa powder and blend in 5 tablespoons of boiling water, stirring until you achieve a thick, velvety paste.

4. Step 4

   If needed, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, to reach the perfect consistency.

5. Step 5

   Next, introduce 3/4 cup of unsalted butter and 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of white sugar to the cocoa mixture.

6. Step 6

   With an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until they transform into a smooth and creamy delight.

7. Step 7

   Gradually incorporate the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each addition is well blended before moving on, resulting in a silky batter.

8. Step 8

   In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder.

9. Step 9

   Slowly fold this dry mixture into your wet batter until everything is harmoniously combined.

10. Step 10

    Using an ice cream scoop, fill each mini muffin cup about two-thirds full with the luscious batter.

11. Step 11

    Slide the tins into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops spring back when gently pressed and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

12. Step 12

    Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which should take around 30 minutes.

13. Step 13

    While the cupcakes cool, whip up the cream cheese frosting by combining cream cheese and 1/4 cup of butter in a bowl.

14. Step 14

    Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is well blended, then add vanilla extract.

15. Step 15

    Gradually mix in confectioners' sugar until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

16. Step 16

    Once your cupcakes are cool, generously frost each one with the cream cheese frosting.

17. Step 17

    For a sparkling touch, pour white sparkling sugar into a small bowl and dunk each frosted cupcake to coat the frosting evenly.

18. Step 18

    To create adorable panda decorations, place 2 chocolate chips in the center of each cupcake for the eyes, pointy side down.

19. Step 19

    Add 1 chocolate chip upside down for the nose, resembling an upside-down triangle, and craft a mouth using 3 chocolate sprinkles arranged in an anchor shape.

20. Step 20

    For the ears, simply place 2 chocolate chips on top of each cupcake.

21. Step 21

    For an extra touch of charm, roll small balls of fondant for the eyes, making them smaller than the mini chocolate chips.

22. Step 22

    Insert half a chocolate sprinkle into each fondant ball for the pupils, then attach the fondant eyes to the chocolate chip eyes with a dab of frosting.

23. Step 23

    Enjoy the delightful process of creating these whimsical panda cupcakes, perfect for any occasion!.