Green tea is currently one of the most popular cupcake flavors, and it is no wonder why. The color of the cupcakes and the accompanying frosting is rich and exceptionally vibrant, but it is the flavor that really sets them apart. They are popular for weddings, showers and other celebrations, especially during spring and summer months. It is not necessary to make the batter or the frosting from scratch when boxed cake mix and ready made frosting is available. I use convenience foods and mixes whenever possible, and no one knows the difference. Try these easy ways to make green tea cupcakes with boxed cake mix, and impress your family and friends with gourmet treats that taste as delicious as they look.
Necessary Ingredients and Preparation Tips
To make green tea cupcakes with boxed cake mix you will need a yellow cake mix of your choice, green tea powder (matcha), green food coloring and everything required to make the cake according to label directions. Green food coloring is not required, but a vibrant hue is not achieved with green tea alone.
Add enough food coloring to obtain the perfect shade, and stir in green tea powder according to personal preference. One to two tablespoons of powder is recommended for a boxed cake mix, but it is best to try the batter after adding a little at a time. Taste it before adding the eggs to prevent illness from salmonella bacteria. Bake the cupcakes in paper liners according to the directions on the box, and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Easy Green Tea Frosting for Cupcakes
While the cupcakes are baking, prepare green frosting. Save time by using canned white frosting in a flavor of your choice. Stir in a small amount of green tea powder along with enough green food coloring to achieve the perfect hue. About one teaspoon of powdered green tea should be sufficient. Add more or less according to personal preference. Stir the frosting until it is smooth and very creamy. Frost the cupcakes using a piping bag to make them appear professionally made.
Optional Decorating Ideas
As the photo shows, candy flowers are perfect for decorating cupcakes made with boxed cake mix. They have a lovely spring look. The flowers on the frosting in the photo match the cupcake liners. Buy ready made decorations to match the liners, or make candy clay to decorate the cupcakes in unique and clever ways. The article entitled How to Make Candy Clay for Decorating Cakes provides a photo and easy instructions.
Whether the cupcakes are made for a special celebration or a family treat, they are sure to be a huge hit. No one will know that you used a boxed cake mix, especially since they will look and taste unique. No matter how they are decorated, the flavor of the green tea and the vibrant color will set them apart from all other cupcakes and desserts.
Source: Personal Food Preparation Experience and Experimentation
