Weber Ghostly Cupcakes

This supernatural tasty treat takes a little patience, but the results will be spooktacular!

Method:

• Set up your barbecue for baking (in-direct method) and pre-heat to around 180°C. Line the muffin tray with muffin cases.
• To make the cupcakes: whisk together the butter and sugar with a hand-held mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing continuously. Finish by adding the vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, sift the plain and self-raising flours, then add the bicarbonate of soda and cocoa powder. Fold the flour mix into the butter mixture along with the milk until all smooth and glossy.
• Place a dessertspoon full of the mixture into each muffin case, place on the barbecue and bake in-direct with the lid down for 15-20 minutes or until firm to the touch. Once baked, cool on a wire rack.
• For the orange buttercream icing: place the softened butter in a mixing bowl and sift the icing sugar over the top. Add the zest, juice and colouring then whip until super smooth.
• Add the mixture in to a piping bag and swirl the buttercream onto each (cooled) cupcake. Garnish with orange sprinkles.
• For the meringue ghosts: reduce the heat of your barbecue to around 140°C, keeping the in-direct set up.
• Place the egg whites and a pinch of salt into a bowl. Using an electric hand mixer work the whites on a low speed for 1 minute, then increase the speed to medium and whisk for 3 minutes, or until the egg whites form stiff peaks. Continue to whisk gradually adding the sugar a tablespoon at a time, until all the sugar is added to the mixture. This may take up to 5 minutes.
• Spoon the mixture into a piping bag, then on a large baking tray lined with greaseproof paper, pipe 12 x 1½ inch high ghostly forms. Bake these for 30-40 minutes or until pale and dry. Remove from the barbecue and allow the meringue to cool.
• Finally, use the black fondant icing to create spooky eyes and mouths for your ghosts. Place the ghosts on top of the orange icing, and serve up your supernatural treat.