Prepare the Cupcakes: Bake or purchase your favorite cupcakes and let them cool completely.

Frost the Cupcakes: Frost each cupcake with a generous swirl of buttercream frosting. Use any color you like, but consider using a color that will make the bow and arrow decorations stand out.

Create the “Arrow” Shafts: If using wooden skewers, be sure to break or trim them so they are only a few inches long so they do not pose a choking hazard. If using pretzel sticks, no preparation is needed.

Create the “Arrowheads and Fletching”:

• Edible Paper: Cut small arrowheads and fletching (the feathered part of the arrow) from the edible paper using scissors or a craft knife.

• Fondant: Roll out colored fondant and cut out the arrowhead and fletching using scissors or a craft knife.

Assemble the Arrows: Carefully attach the arrowheads and fletching to the end of the pretzel or skewer sticks using a dab of frosting or edible glue. Let the “arrows” dry a little so they stay together.

Create the Bow:

• Bend the Pretzel Stick: If using a pretzel stick, carefully bend it into a gentle bow shape. If using a toothpick you can leave as is.

• Attach the String: Attach each end of the licorice piece “string” to the ends of the “bow” with a dot of frosting or edible glue. This will create a bow shape with the edible string pulled taut. Let the bow set.

Decorate the Cupcakes:

• Gently push a finished “arrow” into the frosted cupcake, angling it slightly for visual appeal.

• Carefully place the bow in front of or next to the arrow, tucking the ends into the frosting. Make sure the string is visible so it’s clear that it is a bow.

Repeat: Repeat the above steps to decorate each cupcake with a bow and arrow.

Serve: Display your Bow & Arrow Cupcakes and enjoy!