Glow-in-the-Dark Moonlit Cupcakes
These edible masterpieces glow under blacklight, creating a magical and unforgettable treat with tonic water and edible food gels.
Equipment
- 12-cup cupcake tin
- Cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag and tips (optional)
- Small paintbrushes (for decorating)
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 box white cake mix plus ingredients called for on the box, such as eggs and oil
- ¼ cup tonic water added to the batter for a subtle glow
For the Glow-in-the-Dark Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup tonic water or more, to adjust consistency
- Edible glow-in-the-dark food gel optional, for a brighter glow
For the Moonlit Design:
- Blue food coloring
- Black food coloring
- White decorating gel
Instructions
- Prepare Cupcake Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup cupcake tin with liners. Prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions, adding 1/4 cup of tonic water to the batter.
- Bake Cupcakes: Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Let the cupcakes cool completely in the tin before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of tonic water. Add edible glow-in-the-dark food gel (if using) to enhance the glow.
- Tint Frosting: Divide the frosting into three bowls. Tint one bowl with blue food coloring, one with black food coloring, and leave one bowl white.
- Frost Cupcakes: Frost the cupcakes with the tinted frostings, creating a moonlit sky effect. You can use a piping bag and tips for a more elaborate design, or simply spread the frosting with a knife.
- Add Details: Use white decorating gel to add details like stars, clouds, or a crescent moon.
- Glow Time: To see the glow, turn off the lights and shine a black light on the cupcakes!
Notes
Use quality black light. Experiment with colors. Only use edible glow gels.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate only and can vary significantly depending on the specific ingredients used. For accurate values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
