Lucky Green Velvet Cupcakes

I realize that St. Patrick's Day is over and done with, but I really wanted to make sure that I saved this cupcake recipe.  It really was fabulous, both the cupcake AND the frosting.  Besides, green is also a wonderful spring color AND both my boys' favorite color (although you really could do them any color you heart desires)!  

Lucky Green Velvet Cupcakes

1 box yellow cake mix

4 eggs

1/2 c. water

1/2 c. vegetable oil (I used Canola, I never use Vegetable oil anymore)

1 small box instant vanilla pudding mix

1/2 c. plain yogurt or sour cream (I used light sour cream)

5-8 drops green decorators paste (I just used the regular old food coloring that I had on hand.  It worked just fine although it took much more than the decorators paste would to get a nice green)

Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe follows)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a stand or electric mixer, add cake mix, eggs, water, oil, pudding, and sour cream or yogurt.  Beat on medium for 1 1/2 minutes.  Slowly beat in decorators paste or food coloring until you get your desired color.  

Scoop batter into paper-lined cupcake tins.  Bake 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.  Let cool completely.  

Frost cupcakes with cream cheese frosting and add sprinkles if desired.

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz. cream cheese (I used 1/3 less fat)

4 Tbsp. butter, softened

4 c. powdered sugar (the recipe calls for it to be sifted, but I can't be bothered with that;P)

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Mix cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.  Mix in vanilla.  Mix in powdered sugar, one cup at a time.

Recipe Source: I saw this recipe featured on both Picky Palate and Real Mom Kitchen.