Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/2 cup
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: 1 cup
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
- Red food coloring: 1-2 teaspoons (depending on desired intensity)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Green candy melts: 12 ounces
- Sprinkles: Black, optional
- Red apple flavoring or extract (optional): 1/2 teaspoon (added to batter)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, red food coloring (and apple extract, if using), and vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 5: Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 6: Melt green candy melts according to package directions. Dip the top of each cupcake into the melted candy, allowing excess to drip off. Immediately sprinkle with black sprinkles, if desired. Let set completely before serving. You can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for a short period.
Notes
- Store cooled cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature to keep the candy coating crisp.
- These cupcakes are best enjoyed at room temperature; avoid reheating as the candy melt topping can become sticky.
- For a spooky presentation, display the cupcakes on a tiered stand adorned with faux cobwebs and plastic spiders.
- Adding the optional apple extract to the batter enhances the "poison apple" flavor, complementing the vibrant red color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American