2nd Place Winner- Adult Cupcake

Submitted by: Shirley Gonzales

 

Turtle Cupcakes

1 German chocolate cake mix

14 oz caramels

1/2 c. evaporated milk

3/4 c. melted butter

2 c. nuts

1 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips

 

Prepare cake mix as directed. Line cupcake pans. Pour 2 tablespoons of batter into cupcake liners. Bake for 5 minutes at 350 degrees. Allow to cool. While cupcakes are cooling, melt caramels with butter and milk over low heat. Pour a tablespoon of caramel mixture over each cupcake to cover. Top with a tablespoon each of chocolate chips and pecans. Pour 2 tablespoons of batter over chips and pecans. Return cupcakes to the oven for 10 – 12 minutes. Optional, top each cupcake with additional pecans before baking.

 

 

Caramel Icing

1/2 c. chopped caramels

2 T. heavy cream

8 T. unsalted butter, softened

4 c. confectioners sugar

1/4 c meringue powder

1 t. vanilla extract

 

Melt caramels with the heavy cream over low heat. Allow to cool. Beat butter, confectioners sugar, meringue powder, and vanilla extract in large mixing bowl. Add cooled caramel mixture and beat on low to mix. Can add more cream to achieve preferred consistency. Beat for 5 minutes on high speed. Spread icing on cooled cupcakes.

 

Photography by: A Table Full of Joy