Candy Cupcakes

Try this delicious twist on traditional cupcakes! I baked these after Halloween, using the extra mini candy bars I had left over.

classic chocolate cupcake with vanilla.... but it has a sweet surprise inside!

First, mix the cake batter by following the directions on the back of the box. I used chocolate cake mix, but if you want your candy bars to really stand out, use vanilla or white cake mix. Then, when the batter is done, fill the cupcakes tins 3/4 full of batter.

Next, take your mini candy bars and cut them in half (if you want to use the whole piece, fill the cupcake tin with a little less batter). I used Hershey's bars, 3 Musketeers bars, and Crunch bars, but any of your favorite chocolate minis will do!

mini candy bars... mmMmm

 Place the mini candy bar pieces on the batter, one for each cupcake. As the cupcakes bake, the bar will sink to the middle of the cupcake!

one piece per cupcake!

Finally, bake the cupcakes normally, frost with any flavor you'd like, and take a bite for a gooey surprise!

frosting away...

The finished product- this one has a Hershey's bar inside!

Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread

          It's no big secret that life can get pretty hectic every so often. So, in those chaotic moments when I crave a lil' baking, I will certainly resort to pre-packaged baking mixes. Gasp! Shocking right? Well pre-packaged mixes are so convenient, especially for those who are a little challenged when it comes to measuring cups and teaspoons! In any case, there are some brands you can trust when it comes to pre-packaged baking, and I've discovered that Trader Joe's is one of them. Their Pumpkin Bread is a delicious and tasty treat for Autumn- the loaves turned out perfectly baked and moist on the inside (I used mini loaf pans!). Just follow the directions on the box and be sure you have vegetable oil, eggs, and water.

Try it out for Thanksgiving- it's sure to be a HUGE hit!