Description
Glow-in-the-Dark Moonlit Cupcakes are a fun and festive treat that light up under black light thanks to tonic water in the frosting. These vanilla cupcakes are topped with a creamy, glowing frosting enhanced by neon food coloring and edible glitter, perfect for parties and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcakes
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (or your favorite homemade recipe)
- Eggs, oil, and water (as directed on the cake mix box)
Glow-in-the-Dark Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons tonic water (contains quinine for glowing effect)
- Edible neon food coloring (optional)
- Edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles
Additional
- Black light (to activate the glow)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Make the Cupcakes: Prepare the cupcake batter by following the instructions on your box mix. Once mixed, evenly divide the batter among the liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Glow-in-the-Dark Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a fluffy texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and tonic water until well combined and spreadable. If desired, add edible neon food coloring to give the frosting vibrant, glowing colors.
- Decorate the Cupcakes: Spread or pipe the prepared frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Sprinkle with edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles to enhance the moonlit theme. Test the glowing effect by shining a black light onto the cupcakes before serving to showcase the glow.
- Serve and Enjoy: For the best visual impact, display the cupcakes under a black light during your event. Enjoy these glowing delights with your friends and family!
Notes
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Tonic water is essential for the glowing effect due to its quinine content; regular water will not work.
- Use a black light to enhance and reveal the glow when serving.
- Adjust the powdered sugar in frosting to achieve your preferred sweetness and frosting consistency.
- Neon food coloring is optional but adds a vibrant glow under black light.
- Edible glitter and sprinkles add a decorative touch and enhance the moonlit theme.
