CATERPILLAR RECIPE RECIPES

Steps:

• Prepare cake batter according to package directions. Fill a greased 8-oz. custard cup three-fourths full. Pour remaining batter into a greased 10-in. fluted tube pan. , Bake the custard cup at 350° for 20-25 minutes and the tube cake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing cakes to wire racks to cool completely., Cut large cake in half widthwise. To form caterpillar, place one half on a 15x10-in. covered board. Place the remaining portion next to the first to form an "S." With a serrated knife, level top and bottom of small cake; place on one end of caterpillar for head., Frost the small cake with vanilla frosting; gently press 1/4 cup coconut into frosting. Add purple gumdrops for eyes. For mouth, flatten red gumdrop between waxed paper with a rolling pin; place below eyes. For antennae, press orange gumdrops onto pretzels; insert into head., Place 3/4 cup coconut in each of three small resealable plastic bags. Tint one orange with yellow and red food coloring; tint one green and one yellow. Frost the caterpillar with remaining vanilla frosting. Press alternate colors of coconut into frosting.

Steps:

• In a small bowl, whisk confectioners' sugar, milk and extract until smooth; set aside. , Cut apple in half lengthwise; place one half on a serving platter. Cut remaining half into slices. Cut eyes from one slice. , Using peanut butter, attach apple pieces for eyes and a cashew half for a mouth. If desired, attach thyme sprigs for antennae. Arrange apple slices and remaining fruit in a wavy pattern to form caterpillar body. Place cashews under caterpillar for legs; spoon glaze over fruit.