Easy Groundhog Day Caramel Cupcakes

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Groundhog Day Caramel Cupcakes

Hey fans! It’s almost Groundhog Day (my favorite holiday....no, not kidding....more on this later in the week!)

I tried to come up with a fun way to celebrate a holiday that doesn't get too much attention....and to celebrate the special day, I thought it would be fun to make a groundhog-themed dessert.  What better way to pay homage to the little guy?

They are almost too cute to eat!  I tried to make the faces look like groundhogs.  OK, so I have never been accused of being artistic or creative but I tried my best!   

Do you think Phil will see his shadow?  This year, I’m going by my own theory. If the groundhog sees his shadow, I get to eat six of these cupcakes. And if he doesn’t see his shadow…well, I’m still going to eat six cupcakes! ;o)

INGREDIENTS:  

Cupcakes:

Your favorite box of yellow cake mix

(No need to bake 100% from scratch. Delicious cakes can be made easy sometimes.)

Caramel Frosting:

8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/4 cup milk
2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

PREPARATION:

Prepare yellow cake mix and then bake according to package directions for cupcakes.

Frosting:

Place the butter and brown sugars in a heavy medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil, about 2 minutes. 

Add the milk, stir, and let the mixture return to a boil, then remove the pan from the heat. Add about 11/4 cups of the confectioners’ sugar and the vanilla. Beat with a wooden spoon or whisk until the frosting is smooth. 

Add 1/2 to 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, but not so much so that it thickens and hardens. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of frosting on top of each cupcake and spread it out with a short metal spatula or spoon, taking care to cover the top completely. The cupcakes are then ready to serve.

Enjoy!