Ghost Cupcakes

Halloween is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of adorable Ghost Cupcakes? These spooky treats are not only delicious but surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. I first made these with my daughter Lily years ago, and they have become a cherished part of our Halloween traditions. Get ready to create some ghostly delights!

With a simple combination of cupcakes, frosting, lollipops, and a touch of fondant magic, these Ghost Cupcakes are the perfect way to add some spooky sweetness to your Halloween festivities. They’re a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, and the best part? They look far more complicated to make than they actually are. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love It

These Ghost Cupcakes are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a fun and festive project that everyone can enjoy. They’re easy to customize, allowing for endless creativity and personalization. The combination of moist cupcakes, creamy frosting, and playful fondant ghosts is a surefire way to delight both kids and adults. Plus, they’re perfect for classroom parties, Halloween gatherings, or simply a spooky afternoon treat.

Print

Key Ingredients

Before we begin our ghostly adventure, let’s gather our spectral supplies. You’ll need a batch of your favorite freshly baked cupcakes—cooled completely, of course. Store-bought works just as well! A set of Dum Dums lollipops will serve as our ghostly anchors. For the ethereal swirl, we’ll use vanilla buttercream frosting, and a touch of chocolate buttercream (or black decorating icing) to bring those spooky faces to life. A package of white fondant will be our ghostly cloak, and powdered sugar will prevent any sticky situations. Finally, a dash of colorful Halloween sprinkles adds a touch of festive charm.

• Cupcakes: 18 baked cupcakes (cooled completely)
• Lollipops: 18 Dum Dums lollipops (unwrapped)
• Frosting: 16 oz. vanilla buttercream frosting, 2 oz. chocolate buttercream frosting (or black decorating icing)
• Fondant: 1 package white fondant (1 lb. 8 oz.)
• Powdered Sugar: As needed
• Sprinkles: Colorful Halloween sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Frost the Cupcakes

Start by frosting each cupcake with a generous swirl of vanilla buttercream frosting. Immediately add your colorful Halloween sprinkles.

Step 2: Add the Lollipop

Place an unwrapped Dum Dums lollipop into the center of each frosted cupcake.

Step 3: Prepare the Fondant

Lightly dust your work surface with powdered sugar. Knead the white fondant until it’s soft and pliable, then roll it out to about ⅛ inch thickness.

Step 4: Cut the Fondant

Using a small, round cookie cutter, cut circles of fondant large enough to drape over the lollipops and cover the cupcake top.

Step 5: Shape the Ghosts

Place a fondant circle over each lollipop, centering it on the cupcake. Gently drape and shape the fondant around the lollipop to create the ghost shape.

Step 6: Decorate the Ghosts

Using the chocolate buttercream frosting (or black decorating icing) in a piping bag or Ziploc bag, add eyes and a mouth to each fondant ghost to complete the spooky look.

Smart Tips & Tricks

For a smoother fondant experience, try using cornstarch instead of powdered sugar to dust your work surface. This will prevent sticking and make rolling out the fondant a breeze. Don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity with the ghost faces! Use candy eyes, different colored icing, or even edible markers to give each ghost its own unique personality. If you don’t have a piping bag for the chocolate frosting details, a simple Ziploc bag with a small corner snipped off works just as well. Looking for more helpful baking tips? Check out our guide to baking substitutions.

Flavor Twists

These Ghost Cupcakes are incredibly versatile! For a chocolatey twist, use chocolate cupcakes and chocolate frosting, then decorate the ghosts with white icing. You can also get creative with the lollipop flavors, choosing from a variety of colors and tastes. For a festive touch, try dipping the frosted cupcakes in crushed Oreos or sprinkles before adding the fondant ghosts. Explore our cupcake recipes for more delicious inspiration.

How to Serve

These Ghost Cupcakes are delightful on their own, but you can create a spooky spread by serving them alongside other Halloween treats like pumpkin spice cookies or candy corn bark. Arrange them on a festive platter or individual cupcake stands for an extra touch of charm. For a fun Halloween party idea, set up a DIY decorating station with different colored frostings, sprinkles, and candies so guests can personalize their own ghostly creations. If you’re planning a full Halloween feast, check out our delicious dinner ideas.

That’s a Wrap

These Ghost Cupcakes are more than just a treat; they’re a fun, interactive experience that brings a touch of spooky delight to your Halloween celebrations. Every bite is a reminder of the joy and creativity that baking can bring, and I hope they become a cherished tradition in your home, just like they are in mine. Now, go forth and create some ghostly magic in your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your spooky creations on our Facebook{target=”_blank”} and Pinterest{target=”_blank”} pages. For other dessert inspiration, check out our delicious dessert recipes. Happy baking, and Happy Halloween!