DIY Candy Bow Cupcake Toppers

Hello there, bowtiful!  If you are like me, and haven't mastered the art of piping bows on a cake with frosting,  and are always hoping to make a big impact in a short amount of time, then you'll love these easy candy bows that will transform your cake or treats in a jiff!  They are so much more forgiving, since you can move them around before applying them to the frosting.  I used them on my store-bought Valentine's Day cake, and I just wanted to share the tutorial.  They can be used for many different occasions and themes, so you know what they say -- when in doubt, put a bow on it!

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Tootsie Fruit Chews in Assorted Reds (2 per bow)

• Microwave (not pictured)

• Wax Paper

• Kitchen Scissors

HOW TO:

Step 1

Wash your hands!  Unwrap two fruit chews, and place them on a small piece of wax paper in the microwave.  Heat in five-second increments until the chews are warm enough to mold with your hands.  (I heated mine for about 7-10 seconds.)

Step 2

If both chews are the same color, roll them together into one ball, and if you are using two different colors, roll them into two separate balls.  (NOTE:  If you want the bow to have a yarn-like appearance, you will want to roll the chews into two separate balls no matter what colors you have chosen.)  Rub them between your hands to form a "snake" out of each ball.

Step 3

If you are going for the yarn-ish look, twist your two strands of candy together.

Step 4

Create a loop on one side of the "rope", with a tail hanging below.

Step 5

Create a second loop on the other side of the rope, and place the tail over the center of the first loop and tail.  Squeeze together in the middle a bit to keep the bow in place.  

Step 6

Use kitchen scissors to snip the end of each tail at an angle.

Voila!  You have an adorable candy bow!  You can place it on a cupcake, the top and/or sides of a cake, or just put it on a little plate for a cute after-school treat.  TIP: Store in a cool place so the bows keep their shape.  Also, wait until the day you plan to serve the cake to place bows on the side.  They may begin to slide down if left overnight, depending on the type of frosting.  I would love to know what you do with your bows, so please do share!  ...or tag me on Instagram.  Thanks!