Easy Polar Bear Cupcakes

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (2 minutes). Add the softened cream cheese and continue beating until fully combined, creating a smooth and homogenous mixture (1 minute). Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, ensuring each addition is well incorporated before adding the next (3 minutes). Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until evenly distributed (1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream and beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth, about 2 minutes (2 minutes).

Frost the Cupcakes: Take a cooled cupcake and generously frost the top with the prepared cream cheese frosting, aiming for an even and smooth layer. Immediately sprinkle the frosted top with sweetened flaked coconut, gently pressing to adhere. Shake off any excess coconut to maintain a clean appearance (5 minutes).

Decorate the Polar Bears: Take a mini marshmallow and carefully cut it in half horizontally using scissors or kitchen shears. Place one half of the marshmallow, cut-side down, in the center of the frosted cupcake to form the polar bear's muzzle. Gently press it into the frosting to secure it. Attach a black sugar pearl sprinkle to the middle of the marshmallow half using a tiny dab of frosting to create the nose. Place two more black sugar pearl sprinkles above the nose, one on each side, for the eyes. Press them gently into the frosting. Place two whole mini marshmallows at the top of the cupcake on each side to form the ears, pressing them into the frosting to adhere. Repeat the frosting and decorating process with the remaining cupcakes, bringing each polar bear to life with its unique charm (20 minutes).