A spellbinding trio of cupcakes inspired by the wickedly fun Sanderson Sisters

These cupcakes are pure Sanderson magic- each one hiding a surprise filling that represents a different sister. Winnie’s is wicked green, Mary’s is maroon-red, and Sarah’s is hauntingly purple. Together, they form a trio of cupcakes that are as mischievous as the witches themselves.

Tips for Success

• Clean cores: Use a cupcake corer or small round piping tip to cut the holes neatly for the filling.
• Bright colors: Gel food coloring will give you the boldest Sanderson shades without thinning the filling.
• Easy piping: Transfer each colored creme filling into small piping bags (or zip-top bags) for quicker cupcake assembly.
• Make it shimmer: A light spray of edible glitter makes the cupcakes feel extra magical, almost like they’ve been touched by the Book of Spells.

Fun Facts

• The Sanderson sisters—Winifred, Mary, and Sarah—were played by Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker, who all improvised some of their funniest moments.
• Winnie’s signature green lightning powers were inspired by classic witch imagery, while Mary’s crooked smile and Sarah’s sing-song voice were created by the actresses themselves.
• Sarah Jessica Parker (Sarah Sanderson) once revealed that she actually enjoyed being suspended on wires during the flying scenes—she would even read a book between takes while hanging up there!
• Bette Midler has called Winifred Sanderson her favorite role of all time.
• The sisters’ costumes were designed with historical touches—Winnie’s green robes reference medieval sorceress styles, while Mary and Sarah’s colors were chosen to make them stand out on screen.

Before You Bake

Do I need to let the cupcakes cool before filling them?
Yes! Make sure the cupcakes are completely cool before coring and adding the marshmallow filling, or the creme will melt and lose its color.

How do I make the color fillings stand out inside?
Use gel food coloring for vibrant shades that won’t fade when mixed with the marshmallow creme. When cutting the hole, keep it shallow so the filling stays visible with every bite.

Can I make the cupcakes a day ahead?
Absolutely! Bake and fill them the day before your Hocus Pocus night, then frost and decorate the next day to keep them soft and fresh.

Sanderson Sisters Cupcakes

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate cupcakes

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, but enhances the chocolate flavor)

Marshmallow creme filling

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring: green (Winnie), maroon/red (Mary), purple (Sarah)

Chocolate frosting

• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream (add more if needed)

Toppings

• Black sprinkles
• Hocus Pocus–themed toppers
• Optional- edible glitter spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven according to the cake mix package (usually 350°F). Line muffin tins with 24 cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, yolk, oil, sour cream, vanilla, and espresso powder until smooth.
3. Add the cake mix and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Divide the batter among cupcake liners, filling about ⅔ full.
5. Bake as directed on the box, checking a few minutes early.
6. Let cupcakes cool completely.
7. For the filling, beat the butter until light and fluffy.
8. Mix in the marshmallow creme and vanilla.
9. Slowly add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and fluffy.
10. Divide into 3 bowls. Tint one green for Winnie, one maroon/red for Mary, and one purple for Sarah.
11. Using a small knife or cupcake corer, cut a small hole in the center of each cooled cupcake.
12. Fill with the colored creme fillings, dividing cupcakes into three equal groups (8 of each Sanderson sister).
13. Replace the cake “plug” on top to seal.
14. For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy.
15. Add in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix on low.
16. Add in the vanilla and cream, then beat on medium-high for about 3 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
17. Frost each cupcake with chocolate buttercream—either spread or pipe.
18. Top with black sprinkles and themed toppers. Spray with edible glitter, if desired.

FAQ

Can I use a different flavor cake mix?
Yes! Vanilla or funfetti mixes work if you want brighter colors for the filling, but chocolate best captures that witchy Sanderson vibe.

What’s the best way to core the cupcakes?
A cupcake corer works perfectly, but you can also use a small paring knife or the wide end of a piping tip to scoop out the center.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of homemade?
Definitely. Whip it briefly to make it fluffier, and add a teaspoon of cocoa powder if you want a richer chocolate flavor.

Can I freeze the cupcakes?
You can freeze them (without frosting) for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the filling and frosting.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep them covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Sprinkle of Fun

Host a Hocus Pocus game night! Set the mood with flickering candles (black, of course), dim the lights, and bring out a Hocus Pocus board or card game. Serve the Sanderson Sisters cupcakes alongside popcorn and cider while everyone teams up to outwit the witches.