Instructions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line 24 cup muffin tins with paper liners.

In a large bowl whisk together the cake flour, baking powder and salt. In a stand-alone mixer or using a hand-held electric mixer cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Add the vanilla and beat to combine. If making chocolate cake add the cooled, melted chocolate and mix well, then add in milk. Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter mixture and mix until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared tins and bake for 20 minutes. Cool completely.

Frost the cupcakes with the tinted frosting and sprinkle with tinted coconut for a fuzzy caterpillar. Arrange them in a curving pattern on top of a large cutting board or piece of cardboard covered with foil. Snip licorice into short lengths to form antennae and legs. Place round candies for eyes and mouth. If desired, round candies can be placed on cupcakes for a spotted caterpillar.

This recipe yields 24 cupcakes.

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