Simple Truth

Gluten Free Succulent Cupcakes
​#KrogerBrunch

​This is a sponsored collaboration with Kroger and DimeMedia, opinions and thoughts are my own.
​​April 7th I attended the Krogers Influencer brunch along side some wonderful Arizona bloggers such as my Sister Kathy aka Crafty Chica! I originally was just bringing cupcakes tot he event but a few days before the event I was notified they wanted me to attend as an Influencer! I first thought to myself "I am not a Blogger, I do Not Blog!" and then I said to myself ...."but your whole life is about food and I LOVE FOOD!" LOL! So I happily accepted the invite. The brunch was held at El Chorro up in Scottsdale Arizona. As I arrived to the event I could already see the set up, Bright and colorful (everything I think of when I see Kathy!) And the set up did not disappoint, Katy did an amazing job setting everything up!
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Not only was I excited to be eating, I was able to partner with one of my favorite store brands! My families number one place to shop is Fry's food, not only do they always have the best deals but the best Fruits too (we love fruits in our home)!
This Easy recipe I decided to share with you guys, is something I don't usually try or make, so i was definitely intrigued and I can now say I was not disappointed. 
​and for more food inspiration go to LetsEatBreakfast.com and  
mybeverageshop.com/

So first I went to my Fry's and bought everything I would need to prep for these cupcakes.
​eggs, oil, animal crackers, cake/cupcake mix, butter, powder sugar, vanilla, milk....

Simple Truth  Organic Gluten Free Chocolate Cake
approximately 24 cupcakes or two 6"x2" rounds on the box it calls for 2Eggs
2/3 cup oil
​2/3 cup lukewarm water
​preheat your oven to 350
Bake for 18-22min
Combine all ingredients together, mix well til fully incorporated. Bake for recommended time or til toothpick comes out clean.

​Gluten Free Buttercream Recipe
(approximately 2 cups)
2 sticks butter, softened (8 ounces; 226 grams)

• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted (16 ounces; 170 grams)
• 4 tablespoons milk (2 ounces; 56 grams)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Cream butter until smooth in a medium mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix, on low speed, until smooth. Use as directed. 
   
   

"Sand"  Simple Truth Gluten Free Animal Crackers
​1 8oz bag
In a Large magic bullet I grounded up the animal crackers til I was satisfied with the texture. This will vary for everyone.
​I also added a bit of chocolate cupcake crumbs to give it some depth and color.

.Creating a Succulent Cactus and buttercream flower, is pretty easy!
​Just practice the technique and have the right piping tips to help you along the way!
​I used a French star tip for my cactus specifically an Ateco 867 you can purchase yours here . ​And for the purple flower I used a Wilton 103 tip which you can purchase here.
​I am using colors Moss Green From wilton and Purple. Make sure you have a rose needle!
​I will be doing a youtube video tutorial on this technique, so don't forget to subscribe!

You can also finish off your cupcakes with a fondant flower! My friend who is right here in Arizona always has the food safe molds I need! Visit her page here! ​I used one of her flower molds to achieve this look on one of the cupcakes.

A big Thank you to Kroger and DimeMedia for this awesome opportunity!
I cannot wait to see your Creations! Tag me or use the hashtag #candyqueenbeebaker so I can find your creations!
​Happy Baking My Queen Bee Bakers! Never stop learning, creating, Inspiring and Aspiring!