banana cupcakes in a nest - gatherings

Once a month I get together with a few friends for a girls night out.  We take turns hosting and everyone brings either a sweet or savory to share.  It's a small group, usually four or five, so there is no (or minimal) pressure on the hostess.

Nothing is planned but the month usually dictates the decor and food.  This month we met at my sister in law's house for a pretty spring celebration.  My contribution were these adorable banana nest cupcakes.

I am not sure where I saw the idea originally so I can't give credit where credit is due.  Their version used lemon curd and served them up (adorably) in small mason jars.  I used what I had on hand which was instant banana pudding, fresh bananas, boxed cake mix and pre made frosting.  I made mine in clear plastic cups for easy clean up.  I don't like to take dishes to get togethers that require someone to wash before I head home if I can avoid it.

These were super simple to put together and definitely semi-homemade.

What you'll need...

One box of yellow cake mix
One box of banana pudding
Two bananas
One bag of sweetened coconut flakes
One jar of vanilla frosting
Robins egg Easter candy
Clear plastic glasses.

Make yellow cupcakes according to the box directions and let cool.

While the cupcakes are baking, make banana pudding according to the package (I used instant and it was fine) and let it cool in the refrigerator.

With oven set to 200 degrees, place sweetened coconut flakes on a baking dish and toast until light brown, stirring occasionally.  Mine took about 20 minutes.

To assemble - Cut each cupcake in half placing the bottom in the cup.  Place a layer of banana pudding and a slice of banana next followed by the top of the cupcake.  Next goes the frosting, which I piped on using a plastic storage bag, followed by the nest of coconut.  I topped the nest with three candied eggs.

That's it!  The best thing is they tasted as good as they looked.  I plan on making another batch up for Easter Sunday at my mom's.  The variations are endless and could be adopted to any holiday or function.

Speaking of Easter, how's your planning and preparation going?  I am finally getting in the swing of things here.

xo, Patty

If you like the idea of individual desserts check out this post here.