Red dragon cupcakes

Step 1

Add the chocolate to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave 30-second intervals, mixing between, until completely melted and smooth.

Step 2

Pour the melted chocolate into the dragon-shaped molds (to make 12 total; work in batches if needed), then refrigerate for about 5 minutes, or until the chocolate has set. Carefully remove the chocolate dragons from the mold. Using a small brush, dust the chocolate figures with edible metallic dusting powder, if desired.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix together the silver and black sanding sugar until evenly combined.

Step 4

Add 2 cups of buttercream frosting to a large piping bag fitted with a round tip, then pipe onto the red velvet cupcakes. 5. Carefully dip the cupcakes in the sanding sugar mixture to cover the frosting completely.

Step 5

In a small bowl, mix the remaining ⅓ cup of buttercream frosting with the orange food coloring until evenly combined. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a flat tip, then pipe onto the center of the cupcakes to look like flames. Sprinkle the flames with the gold sanding sugar.

Step 6

Top each cupcake with a chocolate dragon.

Step 7

The cupcakes will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.