Introduction

These Gnome Cupcakes are more than just dessert—they’re pure magic in a wrapper. With fluffy vanilla cupcakes as the base, colorful buttercream swirls for hats, piped beards, and a candy pearl nose, each little gnome is full of charm, whimsy, and sweet personality.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, spring celebration, holiday cookie exchange, or even a themed baby shower, these cupcakes are guaranteed to be the talk of the table.

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Why I Love This Recipe

Not only are these gnome cupcakes adorable, but they’re also fun to make, especially if you love decorating. They let you get creative with food coloring, piping techniques, and edible embellishments. Best of all, the cupcake itself is a moist, buttery vanilla cake that balances beautifully with the rich, creamy frosting.

These cupcakes are ideal for:

• Holiday baking projects (pair with Snow Globe Cookies)
• Spring or garden parties
• DIY edible gifts
• Kids’ birthday activities (let them decorate their own gnome!)

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
• Gel food coloring (multiple colors for hats and beards)

For Decorating:

• White candy pearls (for gnome noses)
• Small fondant flowers or sprinkles (optional)
• Piping bags and tips (star and round)

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Swaps & Notes

• Flavor variations: Add almond extract to the batter or use lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Dye-free option: Leave the frosting white for minimalist gnomes or use natural coloring like beet or turmeric powder.
• Vegan-friendly: Use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and egg substitutes.

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Step-by-Step Directions

✅ Make the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, mixing until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly into liners and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before decorating.

✅ Make the Buttercream Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla and heavy cream.
3. Beat until light, fluffy, and pipeable.
4. Divide into bowls and tint each with desired food coloring for hats and beards.

✅ Decorate the Gnome Cupcakes

1. Use a star tip to pipe buttercream beards along the bottom half of each cupcake.
2. Use a round tip to pipe swirled gnome hats in bright colors on top.
3. Place a candy pearl where the beard and hat meet to form the nose.
4. Add fondant flowers or sprinkles for personality!

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Tips for Success

• Chill frosting for 10 minutes before piping for better shape retention.
• Use gel food coloring—it’s vibrant and won’t water down your frosting.
• Practice your beard piping on parchment paper first for consistent shape.
• If decorating with kids, give each person their own color and let them create a gnome “family.”

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair these whimsical treats with other playful or nostalgic desserts:

• Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies – colorful companions for your gnomes
• Easy Coconut Macaroons – simple and chewy contrast
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – indulgent bites to round out your dessert table
• Edible Cookie Dough – for a no-bake crowd pleaser

Display on a tiered stand or wooden platter with greenery for an enchanted forest effect.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store decorated cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
• Frosting can be made ahead and stored in the fridge—just rewhip before using.
• Cupcakes freeze well (unfrosted) for up to 2 months.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

If these gnomes made you smile, you’ll love these:

• Snow Globe Cookies
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
• Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies
• Edible Cookie Dough
• Easy Coconut Macaroons

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Final Thoughts

These Gnome Cupcakes are pure joy baked into every bite. Whether you’re planning a whimsical birthday party, holiday gathering, or just love creative baking projects, they deliver charm and sweetness in equal measure.

If you bake them, tag @chefmaniac so we can see your colorful creations! And don’t forget to follow for more fun dessert ideas straight out of a storybook.