Game Day Chocolate Cake Recipes

Steps:

• Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). Place paper baking cup in each of 24 regular-size muffin pans.
• Make and bake cake as directed on box for 24 cupcakes. Cool in pans 10 minutes; remove from pans to cooling racks. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
• To create your favorite team colors, divide 3/4 cup frosting between two small bowls. Add desired food color to each bowl, and stir until thoroughly blended. Spread frosting over cupcakes; sprinkle with stars. For footballs, pipe laces on almonds with decorator frosting. Cut each fruit snack into 6 triangles. Wrap each triangle around one end of each pretzel for flag. Decorate each cupcake with a football and flag. Store loosely covered.

Steps:

• Prepare cake batter and bake in greased and floured 13x9-inch pan as directed on package, substituting coffee for the water. Cool cake in pan 15 min. Loosen cake from sides of pan with knife; invert onto wire rack. Gently remove pan. Cool cake completely.
• Trim corners and sides from cake to resemble football. Reserve trimmings for snacking or another use.
• Frost cake with Cappuccino Pudding Frosting. Keep refrigerated.

Steps:

• Microwave the butter in a microwave-safe mug in 10-second increments until melted, 20 to 30 seconds. Crack the egg into a small bowl; add the vanilla and whisk to combine using a small whisk or fork. Pour the egg mixture into the mug over the butter and whisk to combine.
• Add the sugar, cocoa powder and salt and whisk until mostly smooth (a few lumps are O.K.). Scrape down the sides the best you can with a spoon or a small silicone spatula. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, if desired.
• Cook in the microwave on high for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Sift a little confectioners' sugar on top or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. Dig in with a spoon.