We all agree cakes are a must for any celebration, but what if you're not a pro baker or don't have loads of time to decorate? Layer cakes can be a hassle, poke cakes might not feel special enough, and blowing out candles on a pound cake? Not exactly thrilling, right?

That's where cupcakes come to save the day! They're cute and classy, small yet satisfying, and super flexible. Dear Lykkers, whether it's a holiday, birthday, graduation, or just a regular old Tuesday, these cupcake recipes are your ticket to a perfect treat.

1. S'mores Cupcakes

No doubt about it, s'mores take the cake when it comes to irresistible treats. And guess what? Now you can savor all the goodness of s'mores—buttery graham crackers, gooey chocolate, and toasty marshmallows—all in one delicious cupcake!

Ingredients

- 3 cups of graham cracker crumbs (around 20 full-sheet graham crackers)

- 12 tablespoons of melted butter

- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

- A pinch of salt

- Devil's food cake mix, along with the ingredients listed on the box

- 1 cup of chocolate chips

- 1/2 cup of heavy cream

- 24 marshmallows

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two 12-cup muffin tins with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Let's make the cupcakes! Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Press about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into each cupcake liner to form mini crusts.

Step 3: Follow the instructions on the box to prepare the cake mix. Divide the batter between the liners and bake for a couple of minutes less than the box suggests, approximately 16 minutes.

Step 4: While the cupcakes are baking, whip up a quick ganache. Place the chocolate chips in a medium heatproof bowl and set it aside. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: When the cupcakes are almost done baking, take them out of the oven and spoon about a tablespoon of ganache onto each cupcake. Then, top each one with a marshmallow. If it's easier, you can lay the marshmallow on its side. Pop the trays back in the oven and bake for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them, until the marshmallows are golden and soft.

2. Cheesecake Cupcakes

Who doesn't love creamy cheesecake? This mini version is easy to make (no water bath needed!) and just as tasty as the big one. You can switch the fruit for fall favorites like apples or pears, or skip the fruit and add whipped cream and chocolate curls!

Ingredients

- Cooking spray

- 14 graham crackers, crushed

- 4 tablespoons melted butter

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

- 2 large eggs

- 1/2 cup sour cream

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

- Fresh berries, for garnish

- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade or apricot jam

Directions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 325ºF and prepare two 12-cup muffin tins with 16 paper liners. Spray the liners with cooking spray.

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and salt until well combined. Press this mixture into the paper liners.

Step 3: In another large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add eggs, sour cream, sugar, vanilla, and salt, and beat until everything is mixed together. Pour this filling over the graham cracker crusts.

Step 4: Bake for about 20 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly. Allow the cheesecakes to cool in the muffin tins, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 5: When ready to serve, top the cheesecakes with your favorite fruit. Microwave jam with a tablespoon of water for 15 seconds on medium power, then brush this mixture over the fruit before serving.

Alright, Lykkers! Did you find your favorite cupcake here? Save this recipe guide! Let the baking journey begin!