ColorNest
Cupcakes got their name in the early 1800s because the ingredients were measured in cups rather than by weight — one cup of butter, two cups of sugar, and so on. Before cupcake tins became common, bakers made them in small pottery cups or ramekins, which also gave them the name. Today cupcakes are one of the most popular baked goods worldwide, with bakeries specializing in dozens of flavor and frosting combinations. The swirled frosting shape you see on this cupcake is made by piping buttercream through a star-tipped bag in a spiral — a technique practiced by professional cake decorators.
Coloring ideas: the frosting can be any color you like — try pink for vanilla strawberry, white for classic vanilla, or chocolate brown for chocolate fudge frosting. Color the cherry bright red with a green stem. Give the paper wrapper yellow and orange stripes, or any fun pattern. Add color to the paper liner strips for extra fun.
For toddlers, start with the biggest shape — the frosting dome — and use a crayon of their favorite color. Once that is done, move to the wrapper stripes and then the tiny cherry on top. The step-by-step approach keeps little colorists focused and gives a great sense of accomplishment.
