Toy Story Cupcake

Introduction

These Toy Story cupcakes bring the beloved characters to life with a simple yet creative design. You’ll love how the green frosting and candy eyes instantly evoke the playful spirit of the movies. They’re perfect for a themed party or a fun baking project with kids.

This recipe and accompanying image were created with the help of AI for inspiration and guidance. Results may vary depending on ingredients, equipment, and technique.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 24

Ingredients

Boxed cake mix
PLUS ingredients called for on box
1 cup butter, softened
3-4 cups icing sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
pinch salt
2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Green food dye, plus black food dye or just do what I did and mix blue, red and yellow to get something resembling black
Candy eyes, 3 per cupcake

Instructions

Prepare the cupcakes according to the boxed cake mix instructions, using the required ingredients listed on the box. Bake as directed for cupcakes, typically at 350°F for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
While cupcakes cool, make the buttercream frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add 3 cups of icing sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated. Increase speed and beat until fluffy.
Add vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream. Beat until combined. If frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. If too thin, add more icing sugar.
Divide the frosting into two portions. For the main portion, add green food dye until you achieve a bright green color. For the smaller portion, either use black food dye or mix blue, red, and yellow food dyes to create a black-like color.
Frost the cooled cupcakes with the green buttercream using a piping bag or spatula.
Using the black frosting, pipe a small mouth onto each cupcake.
Place three candy eyes on each cupcake to complete the Toy Story character faces.

Variations

Pipe the green frosting in a grassy pattern using a multi-opening tip to mimic Andy’s backyard.
Vary the expressions by changing the shape of the black frosting mouth, such as a wide smile or a surprised “O”.
Arrange the cupcakes in a grid to form a large mosaic of Woody’s hat or Buzz Lightyear’s emblem.
For a rustic look, use a spoon to dollop the frosting and then smooth it with a knife, adding eyes and mouth as accents.

Tips for Success

Ensure the butter is truly softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting without lumps.
When coloring frosting, add food dye gradually until you reach the desired shade; it’s easier to add more than to lighten it.
To prevent cupcakes from doming too much, fill cupcake liners only two-thirds full.
If the black frosting is too runny, add more icing sugar to thicken it, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before piping.

Storage & Reheating

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Reheating is not typically necessary, but if desired, warm briefly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds.

FAQ

Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade cake recipe, but note that prep and cook times may vary.

How do I get the black frosting right without commercial black dye?

Mix equal parts blue, red, and yellow food dye until it appears dark; add a bit more blue or red if needed to achieve a black-like shade.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, bake cupcakes a day ahead and store them unfrosted in an airtight container. Frost on the day of serving for the best texture.

What if I don’t have candy eyes?

You can use the black frosting to pipe eyes directly onto the cupcakes, or use small round candies like chocolate chips if available.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

Reduce the icing sugar by half a cup and add a pinch more salt to balance the sweetness, but note that the consistency may be softer.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch; however, the frosting may be less rich.