Instructions for Wrapping Individual Cupcakes for Gifts

Cupcakes are easy, quick and universally well-liked. They can be elaborately decorated or nearly bare and still bring the same excitement for dessert that you had as a child. But today's cupcakes are not just for kids. There are a growing number of specialty bakeries dedicated solely to these mini-delicacies with extravagant fillings, specialty frosting and unique toppings. Whether store-bought or homemade, you can turn cupcakes into a one-of-a-kind gift. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Wrapped Cupcakes

Cut wrapping paper into strips that are approximately 1 inch higher than your cupcake liner and twice the length.

Wrap the strips of paper loosely around the cupcake's perimeter. Do not make it too tight.

Tape the paper together, forming a barrier around the cupcake.

Cut a piece of clear cellophane into a 13-by-13-inch square.

Slide the cellophane under the cupcake and wrapping paper cone.

Bring all four edges of the cellophane to the top and secure with a ribbon.

Boxed Cupcakes

Gently crumple a piece of tissue paper to fit a Chinese takeout-style box. You can use colorful or decorative tissue paper for extra pizazz.

Place the crinkled tissue paper in the bottom of the container, pressing your fingers in the middle to make a space that will fit the cupcake.

Place the cupcake carefully into the takeout box. Make sure you do not scrape any frosting off on the sides of the box. If it does not fit securely, add an additional piece of tissue paper around the perimeter of the cupcake wrapper.

Close the top of the box.

Wrap a ribbon around the box, making sure to keep it upright.

Tips

- Heavier wrapping paper works best for wrapping the cupcakes. If your paper is too flimsy, you can simply double it up.

- Make sure the cupcake's frosting has set before you begin wrapping to ensure that it will not be sticky.