Description
These Glow-in-the-Dark Moonlit Cupcakes are a fun and festive treat perfect for parties or special occasions. Made with a classic vanilla cake base and a unique glow-in-the-dark frosting activated by tonic water and black light, these cupcakes dazzle with edible neon colors and sparkling glitter for an otherworldly treat that lights up the room.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (or your favorite homemade recipe)
- Eggs (as directed on the box)
- Oil (as directed on the box)
- Water (as directed on the box)
Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons tonic water (contains quinine, which glows under black light)
- Edible neon food coloring (optional)
Decoration
- Edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles
- 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 following the package instructions. Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Glow-in-the-Dark Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and 2 to 3 tablespoons of tonic water to create a smooth, spreadable frosting. Add edible neon food coloring as desired to enhance the glowing effect under black light.
- Decorate the Cupcakes: Once cooled, spread or pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes. Sprinkle edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles on top for extra sparkle. Test the glow effect by placing the cupcakes under a black light.
- Serve and Enjoy: Display and serve the cupcakes under a black light to enjoy their stunning glow-in-the-dark effect, perfect for moonlit or nighttime celebrations.
Notes
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use tonic water with quinine for the glowing effect; regular water will not produce glow.
- The frosting may be tinted with edible neon food coloring to enhance visual appeal under black light.
- Keep cupcakes stored in a cool place, and avoid direct sunlight to preserve the glow effect.
- Black light is essential to activate the glowing properties of the cupcakes and frosting.
