Christmas Tree Cupcakes

Cupcake:

1. Preheat oven to 350F and line a standard 12-count cupcake pan with foil red or green cupcake liners; set aside.
2. To a large bowl, add the eggs, oil, sugar, and whisk to combine.
3. Add the vanilla and whisk to combine.
4. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and stir until just combined; don't overmix.
5. Evenly divide batter into prepared pan making sure to fill each cavity about 2/3-full.
6. Bake for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until cupcakes are done. They're done when the center is set, springy to the touch, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Tip - For optimal results, bake on the center oven rack and rotate once midway through for the most even baking.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan while you make the whipped cream.

Whipped Cream:

1. To the bowl (a chilled bowl is better) of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or handheld electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, add the cream, confectioners' sugar, vanilla, and beat on high speed for about 90 to 120 seconds, or until stiff peaks form; stop to scrape down the bowl as necessary.

Assembly:

1. Using a butter knife or spoon, spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the top of each cupcake.
2. Add an inverted ice cream cone*** (See Notes) to the top of each cupcake, using the whipped cream to help secure it; set aside.
3. To the remaining whipped cream, add green food coloring, as desired until desired shape is achieved. Tip - I recommend gel food coloring for the most intense green color results. Mix well to make sure it's evenly combined.
4. Spread a thin layer of green whipped cream over the ice cream cones on the top of each cupcake.
5. Add the green food coloring to a silicone piping bag fitted with a coupler (or your favorite style of piping bag) and a star tip.
6. Beginning at the base of the cone (largest part), pipe star-shaped dollops and work your way up, piping star-shaped dollops as you go; repeat process with all 12 cupcakes.
7. Optionally, add a yellow star at the top of each Christmas tree for a more festive look.
8. Serve immediately or store airtight in the fridge before serving. Cupcakes will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days.