XMAS TREE CUPCAKES RECIPES

Steps:

• Prepare cake batter mix according to package directions for cupcakes; fold in chips. Fill foil-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. , Bake at 350° for 18-24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely., For frosting, in a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in milk and extracts until blended. Transfer 2 tablespoons to a small bowl; stir in cocoa. Stir green food coloring into remaining frosting. , Frost 21 cupcakes with green frosting; arrange in a pyramid to form a tree. Decorate all but the top cupcake with miniature kisses for lights. Frost two cupcakes with chocolate frosting and place at base of tree for trunk; top each with a chocolate star. Save remaining cupcake for another use., With a rolling pin, roll two yellow Starburst candies flat; cut with 2-in. and 1-1/2-in. star-shaped cookie cutters. Press smaller star onto larger star; place on cupcake at top of tree. , For presents, roll five Starburst candies into 3x3/4-in. rectangles; cut each rectangle into four 3-in.-long strips. Place two strips widthwise on one whole Starburst candy; press together at base to attach. , For bow, form two strips into figure eights; press together in center and press onto wrapped candy. Repeat with remaining strips and remaining four whole Starburst candies. Place presents beneath cupcake tree.

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Combine all dry ingredients in mixer bowl.
• Add shortening, milk and vanilla.
• Mix for about 1 minute.
• Stop and scrape bowl.
• Add egg whites.
• Beat until smooth and fluffy.
• Fill greased and floured cupcake molds about halfway.
• Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.
• Remove from oven.
• Slice rounded"humps" from cupcakes.
• Cool on wire racks.
• Frost with green frosting and decorate.