Pacifier Cupcakes
Quick and adorable Pacifier Cupcakes made from a boxed cake mix, perfect for baby showers. These cupcakes are easy to make, transport, and serve, ensuring a fuss-free dessert experience.
Ingredients
Essentials
- 1 box boxed vanilla or chocolate cake mix Plus ingredients called for on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 tub vanilla or chocolate frosting Store-bought saves time
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips For upside-down 'eyes'
- 12 pieces small pacifier decorations Plastic or edible pacifier candies — ensure they are clean and food-safe
Optional Add-ons
- 1 cup sprinkles or sanding sugar In pink, blue, neutral pastels, or gold for a finished look
- 1 pack mini cupcake liners In themed colors or patterns to match the shower
- to taste edible glitter or pearl dust For a delicate shimmer
- 1 tsp flavored frosting or extracts Almond, lemon, or a tiny bit of coffee for chocolate cupcakes
Instructions
Bake the cupcakes
- Follow the cake mix directions for batter and bake time. Use standard-size cupcake tins for taller cupcakes or mini tins for bite-sized options.
- Tip: Fill liners about two-thirds full for even domes.
Cool completely
- Allow cupcakes to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
- Make-ahead: Bake the day before, cool fully, then store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Flatten the tops
- Before frosting, use a sharp paring knife to trim the domes so each cupcake is almost flat.
- The goal is a stable surface for frosting and decorations.
Frost simply
- Spread frosting with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon in a smooth coat. Keep it thin and even.
- Make-ahead: Pipe or spread frosting lightly the morning of the shower to prevent smearing during transport.
Add 'eyes' and pacifiers
- Place two upside-down semi-sweet chocolate chips for eyes (flat side down, point up) or use candy eyes for a brighter look.
- Gently press a clean pacifier decoration onto the cupcake so it looks like a pacifier in a baby’s mouth.
Final touches and storage
- Add sprinkles or a light dusting of edible glitter if you like.
- Store finished cupcakes in a single layer in an airtight container and keep them cool.
- Transport tip: Use cupcake carrier trays or box with dividers.
Notes
Keep steps short, and pace yourself. A slightly imperfect cut or a wonky eye still reads adorable. Guests will love them.