These Halloween Vampire Bite Cupcakes are spooky and fun! They are chocolatey treats with a delicious filling that looks like blood—perfect for a Halloween party!
These cupcakes are easy to make and always get a laugh. I like to decorate them with little fangs and red icing. Just be ready for some messy, sweet fun! 🧛♂️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vanilla Cupcake Mix: While a store-bought mix is super convenient, you can use your favorite homemade vanilla cupcake recipe. I love making them from scratch, as they tend to be fluffier and fresher!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for the frosting, so you can control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try using plant-based butter instead. I find it works just as well!
Raspberry Filling: Fresh raspberries or raspberry jam give that wonderful “blood” effect. If you’re not a fan of raspberries, strawberry preserves or cherry jam would also be great options.
Red Gummy Candy Fangs: These are essential for the look! If you can’t find them, consider using red licorice or even chocolate teeth. Fun alternatives can add a creative twist!
Edible Glitter: While optional, glitter really enhances the spooky theme. If you can’t find edible glitter, a light dust of powdered sugar can add a nice touch too!
How Do You Make the Filling Without Making a Mess?
Filling the cupcakes might seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s a simple method:
- Use a sharp knife to cut a small cone out of the center of each cupcake. Hold the knife at an angle to create a cone shape.
- Remove the cone carefully; it’s like a cupcake hat! Just set it aside.
- Fill the cavity with raspberry jam or raspberries until they are almost overflowing.
- Replace the tops of the cones gently. This helps keep the filling from spilling out when you frost them.
This way, you get a surprise filling without a messy cupcake. Plus, it looks cool when you bite into it!
How to Make Halloween Vampire Bite Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Cupcakes:
- 1 box vanilla cupcake mix (or homemade equivalent)
- Ingredients called for on cupcake mix box (usually water, oil, eggs)
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- For the Filling:
- Fresh raspberries or raspberry jam (for “blood” filling)
- For the Decoration:
- Red gummy candy fangs (or any red gummy candy shaped like fangs)
- Edible glitter or sugar crystals (optional, for decoration)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun baking project will take about 15-20 minutes of preparation time, another 20 minutes for baking, and some extra time (about 30 minutes) for cooling and decorating. Overall, you can plan on about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to get everything ready and served!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the cupcake mix box. While the oven warms up, line a muffin tin with black cupcake liners to get that spooky look!
2. Make the Cupcake Batter:
Prepare the cupcake batter as indicated on the box or in your homemade recipe. Once mixed, divide the batter evenly among the lined muffin cups, filling each one about 2/3 full. This gives them room to rise!
3. Bake the Cupcakes:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake according to the package directions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, transfer to a wire rack and let them cool completely—this is crucial for the next steps!
4. Prepare the Frosting:
While the cupcakes are cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s nice and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream (or milk). Beat on high for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. If it’s too thick, add a touch more cream until you reach a smooth, pipeable consistency.
5. Add the “Blood” Filling:
Once the cupcakes are cool, grab a sharp knife or a cupcake corer to cut out a small cone-shaped section from the top center of each cupcake. This little piece of cake is your “hat.” Fill the cavity with raspberry jam or a few fresh raspberries to create a fun “blood” effect, leaving some bulging out for more surprise and excitement!
6. Frost the Cupcakes:
Now it’s time to make them look fantastic! Pipe a swirl of vanilla buttercream frosting on top of each cupcake, covering the filling completely—this part is like their vampire cloak!
7. Add the Spooky Touch:
Take two red gummy fangs and carefully insert them upright on the top of the frosting to mimic a vampire bite. It’s the perfect creepy finishing touch!
8. Optional Sparkle:
For some extra magic, sprinkle edible glitter or sugar crystals on top for a sparkling effect. It’s optional but makes the cupcakes extra festive!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Halloween Vampire Bite Cupcakes are now ready to go! Serve them at your Halloween gathering or just enjoy them with family. Happy Halloween!
These delightful cupcakes combine creamy vanilla frosting with a sweet and tangy raspberry “blood” filling and eerie gummy fangs to create perfect Halloween treats that everyone will love!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Cupcake Mix?
Absolutely! While vanilla is classic, chocolate or even red velvet cupcake mixes can work wonderfully for a fun twist. Just keep the frosting the same for that spooky vampire look!
How Do I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store your leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they have perishable fillings or frosting, keep them in the fridge for 3-5 days, letting them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I Make These Cupcakes Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cupcake mix and follow the same instructions. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free options that taste just as delightful!
How Can I Make the Cupcakes More Spooky?
For an extra spooky touch, you can add edible eyes or sprinkles on top of the frosting along with or instead of the fangs. Using black sprinkles can also enhance the Halloween theme!