Instead of a birthday cake, you can use these basic cupcakes as the cake and party activity rolled into one. Give every child a plastic spoon (or a knife, if it’s age appropriate) and place cream frosting, candies, and sprinkles in alternating plastic bowls on the table. Everyone decorates his or her own cupcake! Fun, fun, yum! Yields 3–4 dozen

Directions

Prepare the Cupcakes

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix eggs and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the next four ingredients, mixing well. Add ﬂour, boiling water, and salt and mix until the batter is smooth.

2. Pour into lined mufﬁn tins and bake for 30 minutes, or until inserted toothpick comes out clean.