Sometimes we have the time to do everything from scratch. Okay, that’s not true. I don’t feel like I EVER have the time to do anything from scratch!
I live in the real world with stressful days packed with errands and activities and work. Half of this recipe is from the box, but the other half is actually homemade with just four ingredients.
These cupcakes leave a little surprise inside for all of your taste testers. Have fun with these and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This - That One Thing
This frosting is off the charts amazing. A few simple ingredients - butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar and cool whip. It is so light and velvety it will truly knock your socks off.
It is more delicious than any pre-made frosting you can buy off the shelf at your grocery store and certainly has less ingredients. You can actually pronounce all of these ingredients! Do not skip over this one because you’ll be using this frosting for all of your desserts from this point forward.
Ingredients You’ll Need - Quick Snapshot
Here are the ingredients you will need (see quantities below):
- Krusteaz Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Mix - We could have gone homemade, but boy is this easier
- Eggs/Milk/Oil - For the cake mix instructions
- Chocolate Jell-O Instant Pudding - Add this to the cake batter for extra richness
- Butter - Ingredient 1 of 4 for the most amazing homemade frosting
- Cream Cheese - Ingredient 2 of 4 for the frosting
- Powdered Sugar - Ingredient 3 of 4 - I had no idea how much powdered sugar it took to make great frosting!
- Cool Whip - Ingredient 4 of 4 and this makes it so velvety and smooth
The Process
Who doesn’t love an easy dessert recipe with the most magnificent homemade frosting?
This one is so simple (because we’re using boxed cake mix, but just don’t tell anyone!). The set of ingredients is quite minimal.
Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box. We also add a packet of Jell-O Instant Pudding Mix for extra richness.
While the cupcakes are baking, it is time to make the homemade frosting!
The easiest way to make a frosting piping bag at home is to take a drinking glass from your cabinet and place a ziplock baggie inside and wrap it around the top of the glass.
Next, fill the baggie with your homemade frosting.
Cut a small corner of the baggie (start small, you can always make it bigger if needed).
Take each cupcake and poke a hole in the middle of the cupcake with the handle-end of a wooden spoon.
Fill each cupcake hole with frosting, then frost the top. You’ve now left a delicious surprise inside each cupcake with frosting throughout each bite.
We find the cupcakes and frosting taste even better when refrigerated.
Did You Know
What’s with eating gluten-free anyway?
Ah, gluten-free eating, a world of culinary adventures and unexpected discoveries! Whether you're a dedicated gluten-free enthusiast or just exploring this dietary path, get ready to embark on a gluten-free journey that promises excitement and deliciousness.
So, gather 'round, gluten avoiders and gluten lovers alike, as we dive into the delightful realm of gluten-free eating!
Picture this: you wake up in the morning, ready to conquer the day armed with gluten-free pancakes. Fluffy, golden-brown circles of joy, these pancakes make you question why gluten ever existed in the first place.
Topped with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they transport you to breakfast heaven.
As the day progresses, your gluten-free lunch becomes the envy of all your coworkers. Gone are the days of boring sandwiches—now you're the proud owner of a vibrant salad bursting with flavors.
Quinoa, kale, avocado, and grilled chicken mingle together, dancing in a zesty vinaigrette. Your taste buds rejoice as you savor each gluten-free bite, turning lunchtime into a glorious fiesta.
Now, let's talk about dinner. Picture a sizzling skillet, aromatic herbs filling the air. You flip a juicy steak to perfection, while next to it, a medley of colorful vegetables sizzle away.
A gluten-free feast fit for a king or queen! Your taste buds are tantalized with each tender bite, proving that gluten-free dining can be both decadent and nourishing.
But wait, let's not forget the snacks! Gluten-free snacking is an adventure in itself. Crunchy kale chips, cheesy popcorn, and oven-baked sweet potato fries become your new best friends.
You explore the aisles of your local grocery store, discovering a treasure trove of gluten-free goodies. From chocolate bars to savory crackers, the snack options are endless, and your taste buds are forever grateful.
And oh, the desserts! Gluten-free baking has come a long way, my friend (as you can see from our simply delicious chocolate surprise cupcakes). Indulge in a heavenly slice of gluten-free chocolate cake, moist and velvety.
Or how about a batch of warm, gooey gluten-free cookies fresh out of the oven? You'll find that gluten-free sweets can be just as delectable, if not more, than their gluten-filled counterparts. So, go ahead and treat yourself!
In the realm of gluten-free eating, there's no room for boredom or monotony. Embrace the vibrant array of flavors, experiment with new ingredients, and let your taste buds dance to the rhythm of gluten-free goodness.
Remember, the gluten-free life is a celebration of food that's both delicious and nourishing. So, get ready to savor every bite and embark on a culinary adventure that will make you a gluten-free believer!