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Ingredients
Directions
Tips
To make ahead: Store sparkling sugar (Steps 1-2) airtight at room temperature for up to 1 month. Refrigerate decorated cupcakes for up to 2 days.
Tips
Equipment: Parchment paper, 2 muffin tins with 12 (1/2-cup) cups
Tips
Tip: Freeze-Dried Fruit for Food Coloring
Tips
Freeze-dried fruits have all their water removed in a heat-free, vacuum process that also protects colors, keeps flavors fresh and fruity and creates a crumbly texture (unlike the leathery, traditionally dried ones). Ground into powder, they're ideal for coloring.
Tips
Where to Buy: Both freeze-dried fruit and pre-ground powders are readily available. Look for them at the supermarket with other dried fruit or online at amazon.com.
Tips
To Prepare Them: Grind freeze-dried fruits in a food processor until they become a fine powder. (If you find dried fruits already powdered, there's no need to grind them.)