The Better Baker: American Flag Cupcakes (Add buttermilk to cake mix!)

What an easy treat to enjoy some foodie fun! I have always loved

doing something special for July 4th or any other patriotic holiday.

My hubby is retired after 20 years of military service...our home is decorated in red, white & blue...we have the tallest flagpole in town in our yard...

well, you get the picture.

Simply...WE ARE PROUD TO BE AMERICANS!

And we are grateful to all those who have served & sacrificed.

Did you know if you substitute milk instead of water in a cake mix, and add 4 eggs instead of 3, you can have a cake that turns out like a bakery cake?

It's true - I love that! And I loved it when I saw that Kaylee at

Couponing & Cooking used buttermilk instead of milk. So glad she linked up at our Weekend Potluck just last week!

What a great idea!

The cupcakes have a great texture - I used a whipped cream cheese frosting I had on hand (yes, store purchased...I love shortcuts..=). Feel free to make your own favorite.

Two of my granddaughters were here doing some cleaning for me to earn some $$ - I baked while they cleaned, then they were great at getting them decorated!

left - Chloe Lyn right - Charlie May

AMERICAN FLAG CUPCAKES

1 (16 - 18 ozs) boxed yellow cake mix
1 c. buttermilk (or milk)
1/3 c. oil
4 eggs

Preheat oven to 350. Line muffin tins (about 2 dozen) with papers.

In large bowl, combine all ingredients, beating about 2 minutes until smooth.
Fill papers about 2/3 full - bake about 15 minutes until done. Insert toothpick to be assured they're done or just touch the tops; they should spring back.

Cool to room temperature; frost with favorite frosting.

1 pkg. Twizzlers Pull n Peels licorice candy

blue gel in a tube (or frosting tinted blue)

Cut licorice in pieces about 1-1/2" long...for longer stripes. Cut those in half for shorter stripes....then 'peel'..

Starting at the bottom of the cupcake lay three of the longer "stripes". Then place three smaller "stripes" on the upper right hand corner above the longer stripes.

Add gel (can use blue tinted frosting and a toothpick) dots for stars.

Now...SALUTE!!! & ENJOY!!

Hope you all enjoy a wonderfully fun and safe 4th!