Take 5 Cupcakes

If you’re a fan of cupcakes and crave something sweet and indulgent, you’re in for a treat with these Take 5 Cupcakes! Inspired by the beloved Take 5 candy bar, these cupcakes combine the rich flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and caramel to create a dessert that’s sure to impress. With a moist chocolate cake base, a delightful peanut butter frosting, and a decadent chocolate ganache topping, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a celebration, or just a cozy night in.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe for Take 5 Cupcakes is not only easy to follow, but it also delivers consistently delicious results. The combination of a cake mix and instant pudding ensures a moist texture, while the addition of sour cream and vegetable oil keeps everything rich and flavorful. With simple instructions and ingredients that are easy to find, you’ll be whipping up these decadent treats in no time!

What Goes Into Take 5 Cupcakes

• 1 package (18.25 ounces) Devil’s Food Cake Mix – The base for our cupcakes, providing a rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 package (15.9 ounces) Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix – Adds moisture and enhances the chocolate taste.
• 1 cup Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess and keeps the cupcakes moist.
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil – Ensures a tender crumb and rich texture.
• 4 Eggs (slightly beaten) – Binds the ingredients and helps the cupcakes rise.
• 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 cup Warm Water – Helps to bring everything together and activate the cake mix.
• 24 Fun Size Take 5 Candy Bars (cut in half) – The star of the show, adding a crunchy and chewy surprise inside.
• 3 sticks Unsalted Butter (softened) – The base for our creamy frosting.
• 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter – Essential for that rich, nutty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the frosting flavor.
• 2 pounds Confectioners Sugar (sifted) – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
• 6-8 tablespoons Heavy Cream – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting; milk can be used as an alternative.
• 4 ounces Bittersweet Chocolate (chopped into very small pieces) – For a rich chocolate ganache topping.
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream – Used for the ganache to achieve a silky texture.
• 2 tablespoons Honey – Adds sweetness to the ganache.
• 2 tablespoons Light Corn Syrup – Helps to give the ganache a smooth and glossy finish.
• 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors in the ganache.

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing Bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Electric Mixer – To make whipping up the frosting a breeze.
• Cupcake Liners – To keep your cupcakes neat and easy to serve.
• Standard Muffin Pan – For baking your cupcakes to perfection.
• Cooling Rack – Essential for cooling the cupcakes evenly.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl – For melting chocolate when making ganache.

Method: Take 5 Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard muffin pan with cupcake liners and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil’s Food Cake mix, instant chocolate pudding mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, slightly beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the warm water until the batter is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Scoop the batter into each cupcake liner, filling them about two-thirds full. Gently press half of a Fun Size Take 5 candy bar into the center of each cupcake batter.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the sifted confectioners’ sugar and 6-8 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the honey, light corn syrup, and pure vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag or a spatula to frost each cupcake generously with the peanut butter frosting.

Step 8: Drizzle with Ganache

Spoon the warm chocolate ganache over each frosted cupcake, allowing it to drip down the sides. For an extra touch, place a piece of the remaining Fun Size Take 5 candy bar on top of each cupcake.

Seasonal Adaptations

• For a festive touch, add red and green sprinkles for the holidays.
• In autumn, mix in some pumpkin spice to the cake batter for a seasonal flavor.
• In summer, consider using a fruit-flavored frosting or topping for a refreshing twist.
• For Halloween, add some edible googly eyes on top of the frosting for a fun spooky look!

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cupcakes; mix just until combined.
• Not allowing the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting can cause the frosting to melt.
• Using cold ingredients instead of room temperature ones can affect the texture.
• Forgetting to sift the confectioners’ sugar can lead to a lumpy frosting.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Take 5 Cupcakes are baked and frosted, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To rewarm, simply place them in the microwave for about 10 seconds, just long enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While the chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the peanut butter, you can experiment with vanilla or even a red velvet cake mix for a fun twist.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or even buttermilk for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the best taste and presentation.

Is there a way to make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and pudding mix to create a gluten-free version of these delicious cupcakes.

Serve & Enjoy

These Take 5 Cupcakes are not just a dessert; they are an experience! With each bite, you’ll be treated to the perfect blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and that nostalgic crunch of the Take 5 candy bar. They’re delightful for gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. You’ll find that everyone will be asking for the recipe, and you’ll be proud to share your delicious creation. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake something unforgettable!