Fantastically Adorable Panda Face Cupcakes (Recipe) – It’s Pandamonium Over Here!

School-aged children brings school-run functions. I have a few “go to” recipes for these functions, and these panda face cupcakes are definitely one of the first ones that we think of. The best part of this recipe is that my kids love to bake them with me, and can’t wait to decorate the pandas (especially the ears). A few weeks ago, my daughter and I had “Mommy and Daughter” time by baking these pandas. They are deceivingly easy to make all using common stuff you can buy at the grocery store.

Why I Love These Fantastic Panda Face Cupcakes (Recipe)

I could just squish these little panda faces … and stuff them inside my face. These came out so cute, if I do say so myself! We frosted, then assembled, each panda one at a time. My daughter loved them and she was excited to bring them to her cheer banquet. 

They are super easy, too, because I made them with simple ingredients that I bought at a grocery store (in the baking aisle) and a box mix. You can, of course, use any cupcake recipe that you want. I have several on this site, like my peanut butter cupcakes or my pumpkin cupcakes. Just use a white frosting and some chocolate pieces, and you’ve got yourself a panda.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cupcake tin
• Paper liners for cupcakes
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Small zip-top bag or piping bag with a small round tip (optional for eyeball details)

FAQs

Here’s a crafted FAQ section that you can use for your panda face cupcakes recipe. These answers incorporate general advice and suggestions from various sources as well as addressing specific points for your recipe:

1. How long can I store the panda face cupcakes? Once the panda face cupcakes have cooled and been decorated, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them for a longer period, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just make sure they’re covered to prevent the frosting from absorbing any fridge odors​​.
2. Can I freeze these cupcakes? Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes before decorating for up to 3 months. Wrap them well in plastic wrap or Press-n-Seal, then place in a sealable bag. Thaw at room temperature while still wrapped to avoid condensation on the cupcakes themselves​​.
3. What can I serve with panda face cupcakes? These cupcakes pair well with a glass of milk for kids or a cup of coffee for adults. For a party spread, consider pairing with fruit skewers or a mix of savory snacks to balance the sweetness.
4. Are there any substitutions for a gluten-free version? Yes, you can substitute the regular cupcake mix with a gluten-free mix. Ensure that all other ingredients like the frosting and decorations are also gluten-free. Be aware that textures and flavors might vary with substitutions​​.
5. How can I make these cupcakes dairy-free? To make these cupcakes dairy-free, use a dairy-free cupcake mix, and replace the frosting with a dairy-free alternative like one made from coconut milk or a store-bought dairy-free frosting. Also, check that your chocolate pieces are dairy-free​​​​.
6. What’s the best way to apply the frosting for the panda face? For a smooth appearance, use an offset spatula to spread the frosting. If you want the fur-like texture, you can use a piping bag with a star tip to dab on the frosting.
7. Can I make the cupcakes in advance? Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container overnight and decorate them the next day to keep them fresh.
8. How can I ensure my cupcakes are moist? Do not overbake the cupcakes; follow the package instructions for baking times and check for doneness with a toothpick. Also, make sure ingredients like eggs and oil are at room temperature before mixing.
9. Can I make these cupcakes vegan? To make vegan panda face cupcakes, use a vegan cupcake mix and replace the eggs and dairy with vegan substitutes like plant-based milk, oil, and a flax egg. Use vegan chocolate and sprinkles for decoration​​.
10. Any tips for decorating with children? When decorating with children, prepare all your decorations in advance and place them in small bowls for easy access. You can use squeeze bottles or small piping bags for young children to make it easier for them to add frosting details.
11. What can I use instead of chocolate chips for the eyes and nose? For those looking to avoid chocolate or simply wanting a different look, you can use any small, round dark-colored candies for the eyes and nose. Raisins or dried blueberries can also work as a natural alternative, though they may not adhere as well as frosting or a dab of edible glue.
12. How can I add more flavor to the cupcakes? Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cupcake batter for an extra hint of sweetness and depth of flavor. If you’re adventurous, a bit of almond extract can also give the cupcakes a subtle, nutty background note.
13. Can I make mini panda face cupcakes? Absolutely, mini cupcakes are great for smaller portions—perfect for children’s parties. Just be sure to adjust the baking time according to the smaller size, usually about two-thirds the normal baking time, and use smaller amounts of decorations to keep the panda features proportional.

Photo Steps

I’ve had some questions about the chocolate discs that I used for the ears, so I found some on Amazon. They are “melting chocolate wafers” that you might use as a fondue base.

The nose is chocolate chips and the mouth are made up of chocolate sprinkles.

The Final: Adorable Panda Face Cupcakes (Recipe)