Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes: 5 steps to festive fun

Name: Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes: 5 steps to festive fun
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 cup chocolate frosting; 1 cup vanilla frosting; 1/2 cup candy corn; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips; 12 cupcake liners; 12 cupcake tins

novembre 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes*! They’re not just cupcakes; they’re little works of art that bring a smile to everyone’s face at holiday gatherings. Picture this: a table full of delicious food, and then you spot these adorable turkey cupcakes, each one decorated to look like a cheerful little bird! Trust me, they’ll be the star of your dessert spread.

Every Thanksgiving, I make these with my kids, and it’s become one of our favorite traditions. We crank up some festive tunes, get a bit messy in the kitchen, and before we know it, we’re creating our own turkey masterpieces. It’s such a fun way to bond, and the best part? They’re super easy to make! You don’t need to be a master baker to pull these off – just a little creativity and the willingness to have fun.

Plus, they’re perfect for kids and adults alike! Everyone loves chocolate, and these cupcakes are rich and moist, topped with a creamy frosting and delightful decorations. So, if you’re looking for a festive dessert that’s sure to impress and get everyone in the holiday spirit, look no further than these Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes. They’re delicious, adorable, and guaranteed to make your holiday even more special!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 cup chocolate frosting
1 cup vanilla frosting
1/2 cup candy corn (for beaks and feathers)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
12 cupcake liners
12 cupcake tins

Feel free to use any chocolate cake mix you love—I often go for the classic because it’s always a hit! And don’t worry if you’re pressed for time; store-bought frosting works wonders, too. Just remember, the real magic happens when you get creative with the decorations! You can customize everything to make your turkey cupcakes uniquely yours!

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). I can’t stress enough how important this step is—preheating ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy! While that’s heating up, go ahead and line your cupcake tins with the cute cupcake liners you picked out. I love using festive ones to really get into the holiday spirit!

Mixing the Batter

Now, let’s mix up that delicious batter! In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. I usually crack the eggs right into the bowl with the other ingredients—easy peasy! Then, grab a whisk or an electric mixer and blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. You want to make sure there are no lumps, so mix until you see a lovely chocolatey batter. It should be thick but pourable—trust me, it’s going to smell amazing!

Baking the Cupcakes

Next, it’s time to pour that batter into your prepared cupcake tins. Fill each liner about two-thirds full—this helps them rise without overflowing. Once you’ve got them all filled, pop the tins into your preheated oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, and here’s a little tip: check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready to come out! Let them cool completely in the tins before we move on to the fun part.

Frosting and Decorating

Alright, now for the best part—frosting and decorating those adorable turkey cupcakes! Once your cupcakes are cool, grab that chocolate frosting and generously spread it on top of each cupcake. I like to use a spatula for a nice, even layer, but you can use a piping bag if you want a fancy look. Next, let’s get creative with the decorations! Use the vanilla frosting to make little turkey heads on top of each cupcake. For the beaks, add a piece of candy corn, and for the eyes, pop on a mini chocolate chip. To finish off your turkeys, decorate them with more candy corn around the sides for colorful feathers. Just look at those little guys come to life—it’s so much fun!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes turn out absolutely perfect! I’ve got a few tips that will make the process smoother and the results even more delightful.

Frosting Technique: When frosting your cupcakes, make sure they’re completely cool. If they’re still warm, the frosting will melt and slide right off! I like to use a small offset spatula for a nice, smooth finish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a piping bag with a round tip for a fun swirl!
Decorating: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your decorations! You can use mini marshmallows or even gummy candies for different turkey features if you want to switch things up. The more colorful and varied, the better! Kids love picking their favorites.
Assembly Line: If you’re making a big batch, set up an assembly line. Frost a few cupcakes, then move on to adding the turkey heads, beaks, and eyes. It makes the process quicker and keeps the excitement going!
Candy Corn Caution: Be careful when adding candy corn; they can get a bit heavy on the frosting! I like to arrange them lightly around the sides to keep them from toppling over. Balance is key!
Let Your Imagination Fly: Don’t worry about making them perfect. The beauty of these turkey cupcakes is in their charm and character. Each one can be a little different, and that’s what makes them special!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with these adorable Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes. Happy baking, and enjoy the smiles they bring!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes! While they’re certainly a treat to enjoy, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a general breakdown of the typical nutritional values per cupcake:

Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 3g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose—like the cake mix or frosting. So, while you’re enjoying these festive treats, it’s all about balance, right? A little indulgence during the holidays is totally worth it!

FAQ Section

Got questions? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get about these delightful Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes:

Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the chocolate cake mix for any flavor you love. Vanilla, red velvet, or even spice cake could be fun alternatives! Just remember, the decorations will still make them look like turkeys, no matter the flavor.

How can I customize the decorations?
Oh, this is where the fun really begins! You can use all sorts of candies for the turkey features! Try gummy bears for the beak, mini marshmallows for the head, or even colored sprinkles for embellishments. Let your creativity run wild—each turkey can have its own personality!

What if I don’t have candy corn?
No candy corn? No problem! You can use other candies like M&M’s, Skittles, or even fruit snacks to create beaks and feathers. Just look around your pantry or local store for colorful options—anything that adds a pop of color will work!

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just wait to frost and decorate them until you’re ready to serve. This way, you’ll save time on the big day!

How long do these cupcakes last?
These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Just make sure they’re in a container that keeps them from drying out. If you’ve got any left, I’d be surprised!

Can I use homemade frosting?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade frosting recipe, go for it! Homemade frosting can add an extra special touch, and you can customize the flavor to match your cupcakes perfectly.

Hopefully, these answers help clear up any concerns you might have! If you have other questions, just shoot them my way. Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh, where do I even begin? These *Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes* are just a joy to make and share! Here are a few reasons why you’re going to love them as much as I do:

Super Easy to Make: Seriously, if I can do it, anyone can! The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple. You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip these up—just follow along, and you’ll be golden!
Fun for Kids: This is one of my favorite parts! My kids absolutely love getting involved in the decorating process. There’s something magical about watching them get creative with the frosting and candy. It’s perfect for a family activity and makes for great memories!
Festive and Adorable: Let’s be real; who can resist those cute little turkey faces? These cupcakes are not just tasty but also bring a festive vibe to your Thanksgiving table. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Customizable: You can let your imagination run wild! Change up the decorations based on what candies you have on hand, or even switch up the cake flavor if you’re feeling adventurous. Each batch can be unique!
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or attending a potluck, these cupcakes are a fantastic dessert option. They’re easy to transport, and everyone loves a fun, festive treat!
Chocolatey Goodness: Need I say more? Rich chocolate cupcakes topped with creamy frosting are an absolute delight. They’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and leave everyone wanting more!

With all these reasons, it’s clear that these turkey cupcakes aren’t just a treat; they’re a celebration in every bite. So gather your family, get ready to decorate, and enjoy these deliciously fun cupcakes this Thanksgiving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made your adorable Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes, let’s chat about how to keep them fresh and delicious! Proper storage is key to enjoying these treats even after the big feast.

First, if you have any leftovers (which I doubt because they’re so irresistible!), place the cupcakes in an airtight container. This will help keep them moist and prevent them from drying out. I usually layer them with a piece of parchment paper in between to avoid any frosting smudging. You can store them in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Just remember, the sooner you enjoy them, the better they taste!

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cupcakes! Just make sure they’re completely cool before wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap. Then, pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply take them out and let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. No reheating needed—just enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!

And there you have it! With these easy storage tips, you can savor the joy of your Thanksgiving turkey cupcakes long after the holiday festivities are over. Happy munching!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.