Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

Bleeding Brain Cupcakes are the perfect spooky treat for Halloween or any themed party. These red velvet delights are filled with jam and topped with a brain-themed pink icing that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Not only do they look fantastic, but they also offer a delicious flavor combination that makes them a standout choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Striking: These cupcakes are sure to be the centerpiece of any Halloween gathering with their unique design.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich red velvet paired with fruity jam creates a delightful taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these impressive treats.
• Perfect for Parties: Ideal for Halloween, birthday parties, or themed events, these cupcakes will wow your guests.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different jams or food coloring for personal flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather all the essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cupcake tin
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Piping bag
• Cupcake corer or knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a fluffy texture in your batter and buttercream.
• Piping bag: Allows for precision when decorating the cupcakes, creating that eye-catching brain effect.
• Cupcake corer or knife: Essential for hollowing out the cupcakes to fill them with jam.

Ingredients

Red velvet cupcake, filled with jam, topped with brain themed pink icing – perfect for Halloween!

For the Cupcakes

• 150 g Butter or baking spread (softened, unsalted)
• 150 g Caster sugar
• 2 Eggs (large)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 85 ml Buttermilk
• 165 g Self raising flour
• 1 1/2 tbsp Cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp Bicarbonate of soda
• 1 tsp Red food colouring (I use Pro Gel or Sugarflair)

For the Filling

• 200 g Strawberry or Raspberry Jam

For the Buttercream Icing

• 200 g Butter (unsalted, softened)
• 400 g Icing sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp Milk
• Pink food colouring (I use Pro Gel or Sugarflair)

How to Make Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Pre-heat your oven to 160C Fan/180C/350F/Gas Mark 4. Line a cupcake tin with black cupcake cases.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

Whisk the butter and caster sugar together in a mixing bowl until fluffy. An electric mixer using the paddle attachment works best for this step.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs and vanilla extract into the mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add buttermilk, cocoa powder, bicarbonate of soda, red food coloring, and self-raising flour. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Fill Cupcake Cases

Divide the mixture evenly between the cupcake cases.

Step 6: Bake

Bake them in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a skewer into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Core the Cupcakes

Once cooled, use a cupcake corer or knife to create a hole in each cupcake’s center.

Step 8: Fill with Jam

Fill each hole with strawberry or raspberry jam using a small spoon or piping bag.

Step 9: Prepare Buttercream

In another bowl, mix softened butter by itself for about two minutes until creamy. An electric mixer can help achieve this consistency.

Step 10: Add Icing Ingredients

Add icing sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and just a small amount of pink food coloring. Mix until smooth. Be cautious not to add too much color; you want a light pink hue. If it’s too stiff, add more milk as needed.

Step 11: Decorate Cupcakes

Transfer buttercream into a piping bag fitted with a round nozzle. Pipe down the center of each cupcake first then create squiggles on either side for that brain effect.

Step 12: Store Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in a cool place. Enjoy within three days for best taste!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these Bleeding Brain Cupcakes! They’re sure to be a hit at any celebration!

How to Serve Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

Bleeding Brain Cupcakes are a spooky treat that can elevate any Halloween gathering. These cupcakes not only taste delicious but also provide a visually striking element to your dessert table.

At a Halloween Party

• Display on a themed platter: Use a black or orange platter to enhance the Halloween vibe.
• Pair with spooky drinks: Serve with blood-red punch or themed cocktails for an eerie touch.

For Trick-or-Treaters

• Individually wrapped: Wrap each cupcake in clear cellophane and tie with a black ribbon for a fun treat.
• Include a tag: Add tags that say “Take one if you dare!” to entice trick-or-treaters.

As part of a Halloween Dessert Table

• Create a centerpiece: Stack the cupcakes on different tiers for visual impact.
• Add decorations: Surround with small pumpkins and fake spiders to complete the look.

At School Events

• Easy serving option: Cut each cupcake in half and serve on small plates for easier consumption.
• Fun labels: Label them with names like Zombie Brains to fit the theme.

How to Perfect Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

Perfecting your Bleeding Brain Cupcakes is key to making them stand out. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a fluffy batter, leading to lighter cupcakes.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine ingredients to avoid dense cupcakes; mix until just incorporated.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a skewer; it should come out clean but avoid overbaking for moist cupcakes.
• Chill the buttercream: Refrigerate your buttercream for 30 minutes before piping for better shape retention.
• Experiment with colors: Don’t hesitate to adjust the pink food coloring for your desired shade, keeping it light and fun.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

Complementing your Bleeding Brain Cupcakes with side dishes can enhance the overall experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Ghostly Cheese Platter: A selection of ghost-shaped cheeses paired with crackers makes for a great snack.
2. Witch’s Finger Veggies: Carrot sticks shaped like fingers, served with ranch dip, add crunch and fun.
3. Pumpkin Soup Shots: Small cups of creamy pumpkin soup offer warmth and seasonal flavor.
4. Spider Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs topped with olives arranged as spiders create an eye-catching dish.
5. Mummy Pizza Bites: Mini pizzas topped with cheese strips resembling mummy bandages are both cute and delicious.
6. Graveyard Dirt Cups: Chocolate pudding cups layered with crushed cookies and gummy worms provide a sweet treat that fits the theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bleeding Brain Cupcakes, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cupcakes. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Ignoring baking times: Overbaking can lead to dry cupcakes. Keep an eye on them and perform the skewer test a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Skipping the cooling step: Filling warm cupcakes with jam can cause it to run out. Always let your cupcakes cool completely before filling them.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cupcakes tough. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Using too much food coloring: It’s easy to go overboard with color, which can alter flavor. Start small and add more gradually until you reach the desired shade.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

• Duration: These cupcakes can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Container: Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

• Oven: Preheat to 160C (320F). Place cupcakes on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cupcakes for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes until they are just warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Bleeding Brain Cupcakes that might help clarify your doubts.

How do I make Bleeding Brain Cupcakes gluten-free?

You can substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use different jam flavors for my Bleeding Brain Cupcakes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit jams like cherry or blueberry for varied flavors.

How should I decorate my Bleeding Brain Cupcakes?

Use piping techniques to create realistic brain shapes with buttercream. You can also add edible glitter for extra spookiness!

What is the best way to store Bleeding Brain Cupcakes?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you plan to eat them later.

Final Thoughts

Bleeding Brain Cupcakes are a fun and spooky treat perfect for Halloween gatherings or themed parties. Their striking appearance and delicious taste make them a crowd favorite. Feel free to customize this recipe by using different flavors of jam or experimenting with icing colors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Bleeding Brain Cupcakes

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 cupcakes 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Get ready to spook your friends and family with these Bleeding Brain Cupcakes! Perfect for Halloween or any themed party, these red velvet delights are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Each cupcake is filled with luscious strawberry or raspberry jam, creating a “bleeding” effect when bitten into. Topped with a whimsical pink brain-themed icing, these cupcakes will steal the show at any gathering. Easy to make and customizable, they are the ideal dessert for both novice and experienced bakers. Bring a touch of frightful fun to your celebrations with this deliciously eerie recipe!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 150 g Unsalted butter (softened)
• 150 g Caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 85 ml Buttermilk
• 165 g Self-raising flour
• 1 ½ tbsp Cocoa powder
• 1 tsp Red food coloring
• 200 g Strawberry or Raspberry Jam
• For buttercream: 200 g Unsalted butter, 400 g Icing sugar, 1 tsp Vanilla extract, 2 tbsp Milk, Pink food coloring

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 160C Fan/180C/350F/Gas Mark 4 and line a cupcake tin with black cupcake cases.
2. In a bowl, whisk together softened butter and caster sugar until fluffy.
3. Add in eggs and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, cocoa powder, bicarbonate of soda, red food coloring, and self-raising flour; mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake cases and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
6. Once cooled, core each cupcake and fill with jam.
7. For the frosting, cream the butter until smooth; then add icing sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring until combined.
8. Pipe the frosting on top of each cupcake in a brain-like design.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cupcake (75g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: <0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg