Back to School Apple Cupcakes

Since my oldest went to his first year of preschool {about 13 years ago}, I’ve been making a school-themed treat on the first day of school.  My four older kids started school yesterday and although I might be sharing these back-to-school apple cupcakes too late for you to use on the first day, you could always make this treat to celebrate a great first week of school!

Some years I’ve gone all out but as I get older and busier, I’ve come up with super simple ideas that can be made quickly while the kids are at school.  These apple cupcakes are made with storebought items and each cupcake will take less than five minutes to make.  Score, right?

To make each treat, you’ll need a storebought cupcake {buy them in the bakery or use Hostess Cupcakes, like I did}, a Tootsie lollipop, and thin green candy that can easily be cut.  You’ll also need chocolate chips or candy melt to stick the leaves on.

Cut the green candy into small leaf shapes and attach them to the top of the lollipop with melted chocolate chips or candy melt.  Pop them in the fridge to harden quickly and then poke the lollipop into the top of the cupcake.

So easy, so cute!  And the kids will be thrilled to have a special treat to make back to school time just a little less painful!

For more simple but fun ways to celebrate the first day of school, be sure to check out these apple cinnamon rolls that would make a great first day breakfast {don’t worry, they start with storebought cinnamon rolls} …

… apple shaped hand pies that the kids can help make …

… and adorable back to school cupcakes that look like they’re topped with notebook paper {but they’re actually super easy and quick to make}!