Bunny Ears Cupcakes

Bunny Ears Cupcakes are adorable, fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with creamy buttercream frosting and decorated with marshmallow bunny ears. These charming treats are perfect for Easter, spring celebrations, baby showers, or any festive occasion that calls for a little extra cuteness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive & Fun – A perfect dessert for Easter and spring-themed parties.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy decorating techniques.
• Soft & Moist Cupcakes – Light, fluffy vanilla cupcakes with a delicious buttery flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Activity – Fun to bake and decorate with children.
• Customizable – Change colors, sprinkles, or decorations to match any theme.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• Pink and green sprinkles (for decoration)
• Mini chocolate eggs or sugar pearls (optional)

For the Bunny Ears:

• Large marshmallows
• Pink edible dust or food coloring
• White fondant (optional for a firmer look)

Directions

Make the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar – In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla – Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients & Milk – Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, mixing until smooth.
6. Bake – Fill cupcake liners ¾ full and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool Completely – Let cupcakes cool on a wire rack before frosting.

Prepare the Frosting:

8. Beat Butter – In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
9. Add Sugar & Vanilla – Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy.
10. Pipe the Frosting – Transfer the frosting into a piping bag and swirl onto the cooled cupcakes.

Make the Bunny Ears:

11. Cut the Marshmallows – Using scissors, cut large marshmallows diagonally to create ear shapes.
12. Color the Ears – Dip the cut sides in pink edible dust or brush with pink food coloring to create the inner ear effect.
13. (Optional) Use Fondant – If you prefer a firmer look, shape white fondant into ears and paint the inner section pink.

Decorate:

14. Add Bunny Ears – Gently press the marshmallow ears into the frosting.
15. Sprinkle Decorations – Add pastel sprinkles and mini chocolate eggs for extra charm.

Serve & Enjoy!

16. Ready to Impress – Serve these adorable cupcakes at Easter brunch, baby showers, or any spring gathering!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Bunny Cupcakes – Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version.
• Carrot Cake Bunny Cupcakes – Swap vanilla cake for carrot cake for a classic Easter treat.
• Coconut Topping – Sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosting for a fluffy bunny fur effect.
• Flavored Frosting – Add strawberry, lemon, or almond extract to the buttercream for a twist.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting and decorating.
• Reheating: Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature. Decorate just before serving.

How do I keep my cupcakes moist?

Avoid overbaking, and store them in an airtight container to maintain moisture.

Can I use store-bought frosting?

Yes, but homemade buttercream provides a richer flavor and smoother texture.

How do I make the bunny ears stand up?

Press them slightly into the frosting and allow the frosting to set so they stay in place.

Can I use mini marshmallows for the ears?

Mini marshmallows may be too small, but you can flatten them slightly to create a similar effect.

What’s the best piping tip for frosting these cupcakes?

A large round or star piping tip works best for creating a fluffy, swirled effect.

Can I use food coloring in the frosting?

Yes, you can add a small amount of pastel pink or blue food coloring to match your theme.

Can I make these cupcakes into a cake?

Yes, double the recipe to make an 8-inch round cake and decorate it with bunny-themed elements.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, milk, and heavy cream substitutes.

What other decorations can I use?

Try edible flowers, candy eyes, or small fondant bows for an extra touch.

Conclusion

Bunny Ears Cupcakes are an adorable and delicious treat, perfect for Easter, baby showers, or any spring gathering. With their soft vanilla cake, creamy buttercream frosting, and cute bunny ear decorations, these cupcakes are sure to delight kids and adults alike. Try them for your next celebration and enjoy a fun, festive dessert!