Polar Bear Cupcakes

Wow, um, guess what I just made? These Polar Bear Cupcakes are so cute. I feel super happy to share them!

Oh my gosh, they look so fluffy and white. The frosting is sweet and yummy. It makes me smile so big!

I want you to try them too. They are perfect for any party. Everyone will love them, trust me.

So, let’s make them together now. Are you ready? This will be so fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Adorable & Festive: These cupcakes look just like polar bears, making them perfect for winter celebrations.
• Soft & Moist Texture: The combination of sour cream and vegetable oil creates a tender crumb that stays moist.
• Fun to Decorate: A creative baking project that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples with an easy-to-make frosting.
• Customizable: Change up the flavors or decorations to make them your own!

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Bake Time: 18-22 minutes
• Decoration Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes—perfect for a small gathering or party. Need more? Simply double the recipe.

Difficulty Level

Easy—perfect for beginners and fun for experienced bakers too.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these adorable Polar Bear Cupcakes, you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – Helps create a smooth cupcake batter and fluffy frosting.
• Muffin Pan – Standard size, holds 12 cupcakes.
• Cupcake Liners – Keeps the cupcakes from sticking to the pan.
• Wire Rack – For cooling the cupcakes.
• Offset Spatula or Butter Knife – For spreading the frosting.
• Piping Bag with Round Tip – For detailed decorations.

Ingredients for Polar Bear Cupcakes

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these soft, fluffy cupcakes with creamy vanilla frosting.

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure.
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with moisture.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• ½ cup (120g) sour cream – Makes the cupcakes extra moist.
• ¼ cup (60ml) water – Helps create a soft batter.
• 1 large egg – Adds structure and richness.
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil – Keeps the cupcakes soft and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet flavor.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract – Gives a hint of nuttiness (optional).

For the Frosting & Decoration:

• 2 cups (480g) vanilla frosting – Store-bought or homemade.
• 1 cup (80g) shredded sweetened coconut – Creates the “fur” effect.
• 12 York Peppermint Patties – Used for the bear’s muzzle.
• 24 dark chocolate-covered raisins – For the eyes.
• 24 black pearl sprinkles – For the nose.
• 6 large marshmallows, cut in half – Used for the ears.
• 12 white chocolate melting wafers – Base for the muzzle.
• Chocolate chips – Can be used as an alternative for eyes or nose.
• Chocolate piping pen or melted chocolate – For small facial details.
• White sanding sugar (optional) – Adds a snowy sparkle.

Variations & Customization Ideas

• Flavor Swap: Instead of vanilla-almond, try chocolate or a spiced cupcake base.
• Frosting Choices: Use cream cheese frosting for a tangier twist.
• No Peppermint Patties? Use a small round cookie or an extra marshmallow piece instead.
• Make It Extra Furry: Double the coconut for even more texture.
• Use Candy Eyes: Swap chocolate-covered raisins for store-bought candy eyes.

How to Make Polar Bear Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, water, egg, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
4. Combine the Batter – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.
5. Fill the Cupcake Liners – Divide the batter evenly between the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Bake – Place the cupcakes in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Cool Completely – Remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Frost and Decorate the Cupcakes

1. Frosting Base – Spread a generous layer of vanilla frosting over each cooled cupcake using an offset spatula or butter knife.
2. Add the Fur – Sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosting, gently pressing it in to create a fluffy “polar bear fur” effect.
3. Make the Muzzle – Place a white chocolate melting wafer in the center of each cupcake. Add a small dot of frosting to the back of a York Peppermint Patty and press it onto the wafer.
4. Create the Nose – Dab a small amount of frosting or melted chocolate onto a black pearl sprinkle and place it at the top of the peppermint patty.
5. Add the Eyes – Attach two dark chocolate-covered raisins slightly above the muzzle using frosting.
6. Make the Ears – Cut large marshmallows in half and press them into the top of each cupcake to form ears.
7. Final Details – Use a chocolate piping pen or melted chocolate to draw a tiny mouth below the nose. Sprinkle a bit of white sanding sugar for a frosty touch (optional).

Serving and Presentation

These Polar Bear Cupcakes are not only fun to make but also make a delightful centerpiece for winter gatherings. Here are some ways to serve them:

• Winter Wonderland Theme: Arrange them on a cake stand with shredded coconut sprinkled around for a snowy effect.
• Pair with Hot Cocoa: These cupcakes go wonderfully with a warm cup of hot chocolate or peppermint mocha.
• Party Platter: Serve alongside other winter-themed treats like snowflake sugar cookies or white chocolate truffles.
• Gift Idea: Place each cupcake in a clear box or wrap in cellophane for a charming homemade holiday gift.

How to Store Polar Bear Cupcakes

Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days)

• Store cupcakes at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerating (Up to 5 Days)

• Place cupcakes in a sealed container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Freezing (Up to 3 Months)

• Without Frosting: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• With Frosting: Place decorated cupcakes on a baking sheet in the freezer for 1 hour, then transfer them to an airtight container.
• To Serve: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let them sit at room temperature before serving.

Tips for Success

✔ Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth, even batter and prevents clumping.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir until just combined for light and fluffy cupcakes.
✔ Cool Cupcakes Completely: Decorating on warm cupcakes will cause the frosting to melt.
✔ Press Coconut Gently: For the best “fur” texture, lightly press the shredded coconut onto the frosting.
✔ Customize the Face: Play around with different candies or sprinkles for unique expressions.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Cupcake
Calories	290-320 kcal
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	3g
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	100mg
Sugar	30g
Fiber	1g

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them unfrosted in an airtight container at room temperature. Decorate just before serving for the freshest look.

2. Can I use store-bought cupcakes?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, use store-bought vanilla cupcakes and focus on decorating them.

3. What can I use instead of York Peppermint Patties?

If you don’t have peppermint patties, try small cookies, chocolate coins, or extra marshmallow pieces for the muzzle.

4. How do I make these cupcakes nut-free?

Simply omit the almond extract and ensure all ingredients (like chocolate) are from nut-free brands.

5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes! Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw overnight before decorating.

Conclusion

These Polar Bear Cupcakes are a fun and festive winter treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or themed parties. With their soft vanilla-almond base and fluffy coconut frosting, they’re as delicious as they are adorable. Try making them for your next event and enjoy the smiles they bring!