How to Make Heart-Shaped Cupcakes for Valentine’s Day

First, preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare the cake batter as directed on the box, mixing the cake mix, water, vegetable oil and eggs using a hand-held mixer or large spoon.

Next, line a muffin pan with paper cupcake liners. Place one marble in each muffin cup, between the liner and the pan, to form a heart shape.

Fill the cupcake liners two-thirds full with batter. You’ll have enough batter for 30 cupcakes, so you’ll need to bake multiple batches.

Bake the cupcakes for 14 to 15 minutes—they should bounce back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Let them cool completely.

While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the powdered sugar, butter, milk and vanilla extract on medium-high speed for two or three minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Add pink or red coloring to the frosting as desired and mix until smooth.

Spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes with a knife or spatula, or use a decorating bag fitted with a plain tip for a cleaner look. Make this baking project a fun family activity by having the kiddos help frost and decorate the cupcakes with colored sprinkles.