How to Make Succulent Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes:

* 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

* 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

* 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 2 cups water

* 1/2 cup vegetable oil

* 2 eggs

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

* 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

* 3 cups powdered sugar

* 1/4 cup heavy cream

* 2 tablespoons light corn syrup

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* Green food coloring

For the Decorations:

* Mini cacti

* Edible glitter

Instructions

To Make the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a cupcake pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the water, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.

4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Divide the batter among the prepared cupcake pan.

6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.

To Make the Frosting:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined.

3. Add the heavy cream, corn syrup, and vanilla extract and beat until smooth.

4. Add the green food coloring and mix until desired shade of green is achieved.

To Assemble the Cupcakes:

1. Frost the cupcakes with the green frosting.

2. Place a mini cactus on top of each cupcake.

3. Sprinkle with edible glitter.

4. Refrigerate the cupcakes until ready to serve.