Reindeer Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cupcakes combine creativity and sweetness in one simple recipe. Using a basic cake mix as the base makes prep easy, and the decorating process is a great opportunity for kids (and adults) to get involved. The chocolate antlers and red noses make each cupcake look festive and playful—ideal for bringing holiday cheer to any occasion.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• cake mix (or your favorite cupcake recipe)

• butter (softened)

• eggs

• vanilla extract

• milk

• candy melts chocolate

• red icing

• brown icing

• black decorator icing

• chocolate chips (for piping antlers)

• eyeball sprinkles

• festive cupcake liners

• parchment paper

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with festive liners.

2. I prepare the cupcake batter using cake mix, softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. I scoop the batter evenly into the liners and bake for about 17 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. I let them cool on a rack for 15–20 minutes.

3. While the cupcakes cool, I melt the candy melts in the microwave at 30% power, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

4. I transfer the melted chocolate to a piping bag with a small tip and pipe “Y” shaped antlers onto parchment paper. I make extra in case a few break. I let them cool and harden.

5. Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, I fill three piping bags with red, brown, and black icing.

6. I pipe brown icing in a swirl from the outer edge to the center to create the reindeer’s face.

7. I gently press the chocolate antlers into the top of each cupcake.

8. I add candy eyeballs or two dots of black icing for eyes.

9. I finish with a bright red dot of icing in the center for the nose.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes and takes about 37 minutes total, including baking and decorating time. Each cupcake has approximately 250 calories.

Variations

• I sometimes use chocolate cupcakes for a richer base that matches the reindeer color.

• To make fluffier cupcakes, I mix in a small box of pudding and an extra egg with the cake mix.

• I use red candy-coated chocolates like M&Ms for the nose instead of icing.

• For easier decorating, I swap piping bags with squeezable icing tubes.

• I use edible glitter or gold sprinkles to add a magical holiday touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If I want to freeze them, I bake and freeze the undecorated cupcakes for up to 1 week, then decorate them fresh once thawed. I don’t recommend freezing decorated cupcakes since the icing and chocolate may not hold up well.

FAQs

Can I make the cupcakes from scratch?

Yes, I often use my favorite homemade cupcake recipe instead of cake mix. Just make sure the yield is about 12 cupcakes.

Can I make the antlers ahead of time?

Absolutely. I like to pipe the chocolate antlers a day in advance and store them in a cool, dry place until I’m ready to use them.

What kind of red icing works best for the nose?

I use gel or decorating tube icing (like Wilton) because it holds its shape and gives a bright, glossy finish.

Can I use something other than eyeball sprinkles?

Yes, when I don’t have candy eyes, I just use a small dot of black icing or chocolate chips for eyes.

Are these cupcakes good for kids to help decorate?

Definitely. This is one of my favorite baking projects to do with kids—they love placing the antlers, eyes, and noses, and seeing their reindeer come to life.

Conclusion

Reindeer Cupcakes are a charming and joyful way to celebrate the holidays. I love how easy they are to make, and the decorating process always brings a smile—especially when I see each little reindeer face come together. Whether I’m baking them for a holiday party or a quiet night in with family, they’re the perfect mix of fun, flavor, and festive cheer.

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