Here’s a fun recipe for Glow-in-the-Dark Moonlit Cupcakes that uses edible ingredients that glow under UV light! These cupcakes have a unique, glowing effect thanks to the use of tonic water, which contains quinine—a substance that fluoresces under UV light.
Glow-in-the-Dark Moonlit Cupcakes Recipe
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup tonic water (the glow-in-the-dark effect comes from quinine in tonic water)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
Optional: A few drops of black or dark blue food coloring to enhance the “moonlit” effect
For the frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp tonic water
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp black food coloring (or dark purple/blue) for a moonlit look (optional)
A pinch of edible glitter (optional, for a magical touch)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cupcake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated.
Add the vanilla extract and mix.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the tonic water. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until combined (be careful not to overmix).
If you want a dark “moonlit” look, add a few drops of food coloring to the batter and mix well.
Bake the Cupcakes:
Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating after each addition.
Add the tonic water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
Add the vanilla extract and mix.
If you’d like a dark frosting, add a bit of black or dark purple food coloring and mix well.
For a sparkling touch, sprinkle in some edible glitter and mix gently.
Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes have cooled, generously frost them with the tonic water-infused buttercream frosting.
Add any additional decorations you like, such as sprinkles or edible glitter, for that extra magical touch.
Glow Effect:
When the cupcakes are ready, turn off the lights and shine a UV light (blacklight) on them to see the glowing effect. The tonic water in both the cupcakes and the frosting will cause them to glow.
Enjoy!
Serve these Glow-in-the-Dark Moonlit Cupcakes at a nighttime party or Halloween celebration for a fun and interactive treat!
Tip: The glow effect will be most noticeable under UV light (blacklight), so be sure to have a UV light source on hand to see the glow!
