Halfway Healthy Hanukkah Cupcakes: A Festive and Delicious Treat for the Holidays

These Halfway Healthy Hanukkah Cupcakes are the perfect treat to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Made with wholesome ingredients and a touch of indulgence, these cupcakes are moist, flavorful, and beautifully decorated with a festive twist. Whether you're hosting a Hanukkah party or simply want to enjoy a special treat at home, these cupcakes will delight your taste buds and bring joy to your celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Blue and white sprinkles for decoration

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the buttermilk and hot water to the batter, alternating between the two and mixing well after each addition.
5. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
7. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
8. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
9. Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
10. Decorate the cupcakes with blue and white sprinkles to represent the colors of Hanukkah.
11. Serve and enjoy!

Interesting Facts