Pop Rocks Cupcakes

Happy July 4th!

The July 4th dessert spread has gotten a little star, spangled, and boring if you ask me. I have seen so many strawberry and blueberry trifles, shortcakes, and cupcakes, I feel like skipping the summertime dessert table and going right back into the swimming pool. Okay, that isn’t very kind to say, I understand, however I think it is time to put a little bit of sparkle back onto the July 4th dessert menu.

Introducing, Pop Rocks Cupcakes! Just in time for your big Independence Day celebration, this easy breezy dessert combines a simple cupcake from a box with a surprising fizz and pop inside. Covered with homemade buttercream and topped with sparklers, there is no more festive dessert for your party on the Fourth.

While I don’t love the idea of using anything from a box, this dessert falls into the “realistic recipes” section for my readers. I know how busy it is this time of year with packing, traveling, dishing up snacks constantly, and slathering sunscreen five times a day over each of your children, so this recipe boldly cuts a corner by using a strawberry boxed cake. However, if you are looking for a homemade cake recipe, check out some of my scratch cake recipes HERE. You will also find my homemade buttercream recipe, below.

I hope you guys love how easy these cupcakes are to make, along with the flavor and fun this dessert brings to your July 4th get-together.

Happy Fourth,

Emily M.

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Buttercream Frosting

Quick and easy buttercream frosting.

Course: Dessert

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter softened
• 4 cups confectioner's sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp milk
• 1 drop food coloring (optional)

Instructions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk, combine the butter and sugar on medium speed until combined.

2. Add the vanilla, milk, and food coloring and whisk on medium speed.

3. Increase the speed and whip until fluffy.

4. Fill a piping bag with tip included and decorate.