Christmas Tree Cupcakes

Gather the cupcake ingredients - * Milk * Vegetable oil * Eggs * Vanilla extract * Sugar * Flour * Baking powder * Baking cocoa * Cinnamon

– In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. – Next, add the granulated sugar and whisk to combine.

Add the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and cinnamon.  Whisk just until no large lumps remain.

- Divide the batter between the muffin pan, filling each one about 3/4 of the way full. – Bake the cupcakes for 16-18 minutes.

Gather the tree ingredients - * Powdered sugar * Butter * Ice cream cones * Vanilla extract * Green food coloring

– Add the softened butter to the bowl of a stand mixer.  Beat on medium speed until the butter is light and fluffy. – Slowly add the powdered sugar and add the vanilla extract. – Beat until the frosting becomes light and fluffy. – Add  green food coloring to the remaining buttercream and mix until you  achieve your desired color.

Spread a very thin layer of the reserved green buttercream over one of  the ice cream cones and place it pointed side up on the cupcake.

Pipe small dollops of green frosting around the cupcake using the star tip to create a tree effect.

Dust with powdered sugar and add sprinkles, if desired.  Repeat with the remaining cupcakes.

Full recipe at mildlymeandering.com