Groundhog Day Cupcakes

As we are nearing the quirky tradition of groundhog day, why not add a delicious twist to the celebrations. These groundhog day cupcakes are sweet, chocolatey treats topped with edible groundhogs. A fun dessert that the kids will absolutely love!

If you love this, you will also love our groundhog day books for kids, groundhog day cookies, groundhog day party and groundhog pancakes.

These cupcakes are the perfect addition of a family breakfast, midday treat, or sweet ending to the groundhog day festivities. Gather the family on this brisk February morning to share a laugh over these adorable chocolate cupcakes.

One thing I love about this recipe is its use of soda. The fizziness and sweetness of the soda gives these cupcakes a unique flavor while ensuring they come out moist every single time. With these cupcakes, you're in for the best groundhog day!

If groundhog day is chilly where you live, consider serving these easy cupcakes with a cup of festive hot cocoa or Starbucks white hot chocolate. But, if you're luck enough to live somewhere warm in February, serve with a cranberry mocktail or Thanksgiving punch (that's delicious any time of year).

Why you'll love these groundhog cupcakes

• We use Dr. Pepper in the cupcake batter and frosting, for a unique and delicious flavor.
• The process of creating these cupcakes with your kiddos will create lasting memories of family fun.
• You can easily customize the ingredients for a dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan alternatives.
• The edible groundhogs and creative presentation make for social media worthy cupcakes
• These little guys are a fun way to spice up February 2nd 

What you'll need

• Cake mix - I like to use a decadent chocolate cake mix for convenience, but you can make the cake from scratch if you'd like.
• Eggs - A necessary ingredients that provides structure, and moisture.
• Soda - Adds a unique fizziness, touch of sweetness, and added flavor to the cupcake batter and the frosting.
• Butter - You'll need butter for the cupcakes and the frosting.
• Cocoa powder - Dark cocoa powder works best for homemade frosting.
• Sugar - You'll need powdered sugar for the homemade chocolate frosting.
• Tootsie rolls - These will be the body of the edible groundhog.
• Toppings - Sprinkles, decorative frosting, and/or marshmallow bits for added details.

Can I use a different type of soda?

Yes, you can experiment with a variety of sodas like root beer, Coke, Pepsi, sprite, etc. for different flavor profiles. Although soda in cake is a bit unique, I do not recommend omitting it as it acts as a leavening agent. It creates a nice, fluffy texture while ensuring the cupcakes are still moist.

How to make groundhog day cupcakes

Step 1: The batter

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine all of the cupcake ingredients together until smooth.

Step 2: Bake

Evenly distribute the batter into cupcake liners and bake cupcakes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 3: The frosting

While the cupcakes are cooling, add soda, butter, and cocoa to a large pot and bring to a boil. Pour the hot mixture over the powdered sugar and mix until frosting texture is reached.

Step 4: The groundhog

Assemble the chocolate groundhog by tearing off two pieces of a tootsie roll and using them as ears. Stick the ears, along with a black candy ball for a nose, onto the tootsie roll. Draw in eyes with white and black frosting.

You can make a lot of little groundhogs while the adorable cupcakes are baking. If you're hoping for an early spring, feel free to decorate with green frosting or green sprinkles for grass.

Step 5: Hollow out and fill

Allow to cool then using a little circle cutter, remove middle of the cupcake but not all the way to the bottom. Fill hole with white or brown sprinkles or marshmallows (white for 6 more weeks of winter, brown for spring is coming)

Step 6: Frost and top

Once the cupcakes have cooled completely on a wire rack, frost them and top with the edible groundhog.

Pro tip: Use a piping bag to frost the cupcakes perfectly.

Variations

• Dairy-free - Make dairy free cupcakes by swapping the butter for vegan-butter, and cream cheese for vegan cream cheese.
• Gluten-free - To make these groundhogs day cupcakes gluten free, you can simply use gluten-free cake mix.
• Double chocolate - If you're a chocolate lover, feel free to add chocolate chips to the cupcake batter or drizzle the cupcakes with melted chocolate. 
• Different sodas - As stated before, you can use different types of sodas for different flavor profiles. Root beer, coke, sprite, or your favorite soda will work.
• Easier groundhog - Use teddy grahams or a chocolate teddy graham for the groundhog instead of a tootsie roll. This way, you won't need candy eyes or black decorators' gel to make the groundhog's face.

Storage

Storing - You can store these groundhog cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. Make sure they have completely cooled before storing.

Freezing - You can freeze these cupcakes in a freezer safe container or plastic bag for up to 3 months. Let thaw on the counter and frost before you're ready to serve.

More recipes you'll love

• Next time you're looking for something a little bit on the savory side, try one of these Easter charcuterie board ideas.
• While groundhog day is wonderful, I love making easy christmas popcorn for my favorite holiday
• These Valentine's cake pops are another fun treat to serve during February
• If you need another way to use up chocolate cake mix, try these red velvet cake mix cookies.