Honey Bee Cupcakes

Name: Honey Bee Cupcakes
Yield: makes 20
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon coarse salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup packed light-brown sugar; 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons good-quality honey; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest; 2 ounces marzipan; Yellow and black gel-paste food colors; Cornstarch, for work surface; 1/4 cup sliced unblanched almonds; 2 recipes Swiss Meringue Buttercream (page 304)

January 24, 2012

Be prepared for guests to buzz with delight at the sight of miniature marzipan bees alighting atop piped buttercream dahlias. Honey (of course!) flavors the cakes. Serve them at a garden reception, shower, or child’s birthday party, on their own or with the sunflower cupcakes on page 273.

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