In the whimsical world of baking, where creativity knows no bounds, the delightful fusion of penguin-themed desserts and the classic Oreo cookie has given rise to a charming treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat: Penguin Cupcakes made with Oreos. This article dives deep into the art of crafting these adorable cupcakes, offering a step-by-step guide that ensures bakers of all levels can bring these cute creatures to life. From gathering your ingredients and tools to the final touches that bring a smile to anyone’s face, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s embark on this sweet adventure together, shall we?
Introduction to Penguin Cupcakes Made with Oreos
Ah, the joy of baking! It’s not just about mixing flour and sugar; it’s an act of love, creativity, and sometimes, a dash of whimsy. Enter the Penguin Cupcakes made with Oreos, a delightful twist on your everyday cupcake that combines the love for these flightless birds with the undeniable charm of Oreos. This introduction will set the stage for a baking adventure that’s as enjoyable as it is delicious.
Introduction to the Concept
Once upon a time, in the vast, varied world of themed desserts, a new trend took flight—well, not literally, since we’re talking about penguins here. But indeed, the concept of animal-themed treats has soared in popularity, capturing the hearts of bakers and sweet tooths alike. Among these, penguin cupcakes have waddled their way into our kitchens and our hearts, becoming a beloved choice for parties, gatherings, and those times when you just need something irresistibly cute and equally scrumptious.
The idea of marrying the crunchy, chocolaty goodness of Oreos with the soft, fluffy texture of cupcakes is nothing short of genius. Not only do these cupcakes look adorable, but they also offer a delightful taste experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie looking to spread your wings in the kitchen, these cupcakes promise fun, creativity, and a touch of whimsy.
So, why penguins, you might ask? Well, who can resist those charming, tuxedo-clad birds that waddle their way into our hearts? By bringing them to life in cupcake form, we’re not just baking; we’re creating edible art that’s sure to spark joy and ignite the imagination.
Ingredients and Tools Required
Before we dive into the baking, let’s talk about what you’ll need. This part is like gathering your troops before the battle. Only, this battle ends with delicious cupcakes and smiles!
Ingredients List
For these penguin cupcakes, you’ll need a mix of basic baking ingredients and some special items for decoration. Here’s the rundown:
- For the Cupcakes:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 3/4 cups cake flour (not self-rising)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temp)
- 2 large eggs (room temp)
- 1/3 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
- For the Oreo Penguin Decorations:
- Oreo cookies (some whole, some for crushing)
- Marshmallow fluff for frosting
- Chocolate chips or small candies for eyes
- Orange candies (like Starbursts) for the beaks
Tools and Equipment
Now, let’s gear up! You’ll need some basic baking tools, plus a few extras for the penguin magic:
- Muffin tin and liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or a strong arm and a whisk!)
- Rolling pin (for crushing Oreos)
- Cupcake corer or a small knife (for making space for filling)
- Piping bags and tips (for frosting)
With your ingredients and tools ready, you’re all set to start baking. Remember, the key to great baking is not just following the recipe but also putting your heart into it. So, let’s get ready to mix, bake, and decorate with love and a sprinkle of fun!
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
Now, we roll up our sleeves and dive into the fun part: baking! Don’t worry; we’ll go step by step. You’ll see, it’s easier than you think.
Preparing the Cupcake Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a big bowl, mix your flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Butter and Eggs: In another bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Wet Ingredients: Mix in sour cream, oil, and vanilla. Then, alternate adding your dry mix and buttermilk. Stir until just combined.
- Bake: Fill your muffin tin (lined with cupcake liners) about 2/3 full with batter. Bake at 325°F for about 20 minutes. Check if they’re done with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!
Creating the Oreo Penguin Decorations
- Oreo Wings: Carefully split some Oreos. You’ll want to keep the cream on one side. These will be your penguin wings.
- Frosting: Mix up your marshmallow fluff frosting. It’ll be white and fluffy, perfect for sticking things together.
- Assembly: Once cupcakes are cool, it’s time to decorate. Use the frosting to attach the Oreo wings and chocolate chip eyes to each cupcake. For the beak, microwave an orange candy for a few seconds, then shape it into a triangle and add it on.
And there you have it! With these steps, you’ll have created not just cupcakes, but little penguin friends ready to waddle their way into everyone’s hearts (and stomachs). Remember, baking is about having fun and making memories, so enjoy every moment of it!
Decorating Techniques
Alright, your cupcakes are baked, and you’ve got your penguin parts ready. Now, let’s make them look like the cutest penguins ever!
Assembling the Cupcakes
- Frosting Base: Start with a smooth layer of marshmallow fluff on each cupcake. This acts like snow for our penguins to stand on.
- Adding Wings: Stick the Oreo halves (with cream) on the sides as wings. Make sure they’re firm.
- Eyes and Beak: Put two chocolate chips for eyes. Add the orange candy beak right in the middle.
Tips for Perfect Penguin Cupcakes
- Be Gentle: When adding decorations, be soft. You don’t want to squish your cupcakes.
- Keep It Cool: If the frosting gets too soft, pop the cupcakes in the fridge for a bit. It makes decorating easier.
- Creativity: No two penguins are the same in nature, and yours don’t have to be either. Have fun with it!
Decorating these cupcakes is where you can really let your personality shine through. Maybe your penguins have big wings or tiny beaks. It’s all good. What matters is the fun you have making them and the joy they bring when you share them. So, go ahead, give those cupcakes some character!
Variations and Creative Ideas
Now, let’s jazz things up a bit. Penguins are cool, but why stop there? Let’s explore some fun twists to make your cupcakes stand out even more.
Variations of Penguin Cupcakes
- Colorful Penguins: Use food coloring to make different colored frosting. How about a pink penguin?
- Different Flavors: Try chocolate or red velvet cupcakes for a surprise inside.
- Holiday Penguins: Dress them up with tiny Santa hats or scarves made from frosting for Christmas.
Creative Decorating Tips
- Use Candy: Candies can be great for more than just beaks. Use them for hats, feet, or even bow ties.
- Frosting Fun: Experiment with different piping tips for unique textures on your penguin’s body.
- Edible Glitter: A little edible glitter can make your penguins sparkle like they’re on ice.
Remember, baking is your playground. These ideas are just the start. Feel free to mix, match, and add your own twist. The goal is to have fun and create something that makes you and your loved ones smile. So, go ahead, let your creativity fly… or waddle, in this case!
FAQs About Penguin Cupcakes made with Oreos
Got questions? No worries! Here are some answers to the most common ones about making Penguin Cupcakes made with Oreos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boxed cake mix?
Yes, you can! It makes things easier and still tastes great.
My Oreos keep breaking. What can I do?
Try gently twisting them. If they still break, use them for crumbs or try double-stuffed Oreos. They split easier.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Just keep them in a cool place so the frosting stays firm.
How do I store leftover cupcakes?
In an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for a few days.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, but decorate after thawing. The decorations might not survive the freezer well.
Remember, baking is all about trial, error, and fun. If your first penguin looks more like a blob, laugh it off. You’ll get better with each one you make. And if you have more questions, just ask. There’s always a new tip or trick to learn in the kitchen!
Conclusion
Creating these Chocolate Penguin Cupcakes is more than just baking; it’s an experience filled with fun and creativity. Whether you’re hosting a winter party, looking for a delightful treat for your family, or simply want to enjoy a baking adventure, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy and smiles. Remember, baking is all about experimenting and having fun, so feel free to add your personal touch to these adorable penguin cupcakes. Happy baking!
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Penguin Cupcakes made with Oreos
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Description
Dive into the fun of baking with Penguin Cupcakes made with Oreos, blending Antarctic charm with the beloved crunch of Oreos. These visually delightful and tasty treats are perfect for any event, offering a mix of soft, fluffy cake and crunchy Oreo decorations. Ideal for bakers of all levels, they’re great for parties, holidays, or a family baking day. Get ready to create these adorable, joy-spreading penguin cupcakes.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 3/4 cups cake flour (not self-rising)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
For the Oreo Penguin Decorations:
- Oreo cookies (some whole, some for crushing)
- Marshmallow fluff for frosting
- Chocolate chips or small candies for eyes
- Orange candies (like Starbursts) for the beaks
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat butter until smooth in another bowl. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream, oil, and vanilla. Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk, stirring until just combined.
- Fill muffin tins (lined with cupcake liners) about 2/3 full. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- For decorations: Split Oreos, keeping the cream on one side for wings. Use marshmallow fluff to attach Oreo wings and chocolate chip eyes to each cupcake. Microwave an orange candy for a few seconds, then shape into a triangle for the beak and add it on.
Notes
- Temperature Matters: Ensure ingredients like eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking for consistent results.
- Gentle with Oreos: Carefully split Oreos to keep the cream on one side for the penguin wings. If they break, consider using double-stuffed Oreos for easier handling.
- Decoration Technique: Use marshmallow fluff as both frosting and “glue” for attaching decorations. Shape orange candies into beaks after warming them slightly for easier manipulation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Oreo Penguin Cupcakes, Penguin Oreo Cupcakes, DIY Penguin Cupcakes,
Question? Are these covered in coconut or is this a icing tip technique?
These cupcakes are decorated using an icing tip technique, not covered in coconut. The recipe uses a buttercream frosting, which is applied with a pastry bag and a large round tip to create a smooth surface for the penguin faces and wings. The decorations are made with Oreos and M&M’s to add the final touches. If you’re interested in a coconut texture, you could certainly sprinkle some shredded coconut over the frosting before adding the cookie and candy decorations for a different look and texture!
Love this
I’m so glad you love it! If you have any questions or need further tips while making these cupcakes, feel free to ask. Happy baking!
The photo looks like coconut was used on top of the white frosting
No, the recipe doesn’t include coconut. It focuses on cocoa powder for the chocolate flavor in the cupcakes and a buttercream frosting for decoration. However, adding shredded coconut could indeed give a nice texture and a “fur” effect to the penguin-themed cupcakes. If you’re looking to incorporate coconut, you could sprinkle it on top of the frosted cupcakes before adding the Oreo and M&M decorations. Just make sure the coconut is finely shredded to achieve the desired effect!
I thought it was topped with coconut as well. I will definitely use coconut.
Hello Olivia. I absolutely love this recipe and plan on making it for plenty of events. I’m just a little confused. I noticed in this comments you mentioned the recipe requires cocoa powder for the cupcakes, but in the list of ingredients above it does not mention cocoa powder at all. How much cocoa powder does it require?
Hello! I’m glad to hear you’re excited about making these adorable Oreo Penguin Cupcakes! It seems there was an oversight in the ingredient list regarding the cocoa powder, which is essential if you’re aiming for a chocolate-flavored cupcake base. For a standard recipe like this one, adding cocoa powder to introduce a chocolate flavor without significantly altering the dry to wet ingredient ratio is a common adjustment. A good starting point would be to incorporate about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, depending on how rich you want the chocolate flavor to be.
Here’s how you can adjust the recipe to include cocoa powder:
Reduce the amount of cake flour to 1 1/2 cups to make room for the cocoa powder without making the batter too dry.
Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. If you prefer a richer chocolate taste, lean towards the 1/2 cup measurement.
So, your adjusted ingredient list for the chocolate version of the cupcakes would look something like this:
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups cake flour (not self-rising)
1/4 to 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
A pinch of salt
1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1/3 cup full-fat sour cream
1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
2/3 cup buttermilk
Follow the rest of the recipe as originally provided for assembling and decorating the cupcakes. This adjustment will give you a delightful chocolate base for your penguin-themed cupcakes. Enjoy baking!
One question though…how on earth do you make Oreos NOT break when you cut them for wings please?
Thnx… they’re just adorable.
To cut Oreos without breaking them for the wings, try these tips:
Use a Serrated Knife: A small, sharp serrated knife can give you more control and a gentler sawing motion, which helps prevent the cookies from breaking.
Gentle Pressure: Apply gentle, slow pressure as you saw through the cookie. Rushing can cause the cookie to crumble.
Room Temperature: Make sure the Oreos are at room temperature. If they are too cold, they might be more prone to breaking.
Microwave Trick: You can also try microwaving the Oreos for a few seconds (not more than 5-10 seconds) to slightly soften them. Be careful not to melt the cream.
Dip in Warm Milk: Briefly dipping the edge of the Oreo you plan to cut into warm milk can also soften it just enough to make cutting easier without breaking.
Remember, it might take a few tries to get the perfect wing shapes. Having a few extra Oreos on hand for practice or mishaps is always a good idea. They’re just adorable indeed, and with a little patience, you’ll make those penguin cupcakes look fantastic!
Hi Olivia, I’m wanting to make these penguin cupcakes for my daughter in laws baby shower. She’s having a baby girl She wants me to make vanilla and Chocolate regular cupcakes and about 6 gluten free as well. So, do you have any other easy animal cupcakes I could try? (I’m a beginner so not to complicated)
If you don’t mind leaving me a text, I do better texting since I’ma teacher in the classroommost of the time. If needing my email joyrdzak@gmail.com but text me if you send me anything. I don’t normally go there often.
Thanks again
Joy Rdzak
Hi Joy,
It’s wonderful to hear you’re planning to make penguin cupcakes for your daughter-in-law’s baby shower! For vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, you can easily adapt the recipe you have by substituting the cocoa powder with an equal amount of flour for the vanilla cupcakes and following a gluten-free recipe or using a gluten-free flour blend for the gluten-free ones.
For easy animal-themed cupcakes that are beginner-friendly, here are a couple of ideas:
Bear Cupcakes:
Use chocolate frosting for the bear’s fur.
Place two small round chocolates or chocolate chips for the eyes.
Use a round chocolate or a small cookie for the nose.
Pipe a small mouth with a little extra frosting.
Bunny Cupcakes:
Frost the cupcakes with white or pink frosting.
Use large marshmallows cut diagonally and dipped in colored sugar for the ears.
Add small round candies for the eyes.
Use a small pink candy or frosting for the nose.
Cat Cupcakes:
Frost the cupcakes with your choice of colored frosting.
Use triangle-shaped cookies or cut pieces of fondant for the ears.
Draw the eyes, nose, and whiskers with edible food markers or pipe them with frosting.
For the gluten-free cupcakes, ensure all your decorations and ingredients are gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Since I can’t send texts or emails, I hope this message finds you well here. Remember to check your decorations for gluten-free labels if you’re making those special 6 cupcakes, and enjoy the baking and the baby shower!
Best wishes,
I’m going to be making this recipe with my residents I’m sure they will love it
That sounds like a delightful plan! Penguin cupcakes with Oreos are not only adorable but also delicious. I’m sure your residents will have a fantastic time making and enjoying them. If you need any tips or have questions while making the cupcakes, feel free to ask. Happy baking!