Ingredients

1

cup water

1/2

cup unsweetened baking cocoa

1 2/3

cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour

1 1/2

cups sugar

1

teaspoon baking soda

1/2

teaspoon baking powder

1/2

teaspoon salt

1/2

cup shortening

2

eggs

1

                        container (1 lb) Betty Crocker™ Rich & Creamy chocolate frosting

Chopped pecans, if desired

Assorted candy decorations, if desired

24

gummy worms candy

Preparation

Heat oven to 400°F. Place paper baking cups in 24 regular-size muffin cups. In medium microwavable bowl, heat water on High 1 minute. Stir in cocoa with spoon until smooth. Cool 5 minutes.

With electric mixer, beat in remaining cupcake ingredients on low speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl constantly. Beat on medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl frequently. Fill muffin cups half full.

Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

Spread frosting on cupcakes. Sprinkle with pecans and candy decorations. Add gummy worms, gently pushing one end into cupcake.