Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creepy Chocolate Spider Treats?
These are festive Halloween cupcakes featuring a rich double chocolate base topped with chocolate buttercream and decorated like spiders using liquorice and candies.
How many cupcakes does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed to fill a standard 12-cup muffin tray.
What temperature should the oven be for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 180°C (360°F).
How long do the cupcakes need to bake?
Bake the cupcakes for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, the recipe description states that these treats can be frozen before the decorating stage.
What flavor is the cake base?
The base is a moist double chocolate cake enriched with cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
How do I create the spider legs?
Cut Liquorice Catherine wheels into approximately 2-inch-long pieces and push them into the buttercream.
What is used to make the spider eyes and mouth?
Liquorice Allsorts are used by making a small hole in the center and inserting a small piece of liquorice.
How do I get a hairy look on the spider bodies?
Apply the chocolate buttercream to the cupcakes and then stipple it with a fork to create a textured, hairy effect.
What type of flour is required?
The recipe calls for 200g of self-raising flour.
Can I use drinking chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
No, the recipe specifically states to use cocoa powder and not drinking chocolate.
How many calories are in one spider treat?
There are approximately 200 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each cupcake contains approximately 9 grams of fat.
How much protein is in each cupcake?
Each serving provides 3 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count per treat?
There are 28 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How should I prepare the butter for the cake?
The butter should be softened and at room temperature before mixing.
What kind of sugar is used in the batter?
The recipe uses 200g of golden caster sugar.
How many eggs are needed?
You will need 4 eggs, which should be beaten before being added to the mixture.
What if the buttercream icing is too thick?
If the icing is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency.
How much chocolate should be added to the batter?
You should fold in 4 oz of chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
How full should I fill the cupcake liners?
Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the cake mixture.
How long should the cupcakes cool in the tray?
Let them cool in the tray for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.
Is vanilla extract used in the icing?
Yes, the icing requires 0.5 tsp of vanilla extract.
What items are needed for the chocolate buttercream?
You will need softened butter, icing sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and milk.
Are these treats suitable for a Halloween party?
Yes, they are specifically designed as spooky party treats for Halloween celebrations.
Should I use a mixer for the batter?
Yes, a hand mixer is recommended, starting at a slow speed and increasing to high until the mixture is smooth.
Is there baking powder in this recipe?
Yes, 0.5 tsp of baking powder is added to the dry ingredients.
What color should the cupcake liners be?
The recipe suggests using brown paper cupcake liners to fit the spooky theme.
How much icing sugar is needed for the frosting?
The recipe requires 100g of icing sugar.
Can I use liquorice strings for the legs?
Yes, the recipe allows for either Liquorice Catherine wheels or liquorice strings for the spider legs.