Preheat the chocolate cake mix based on the cupcake instructions using the red cupcake liners and all the cupcakes to cool completely at room temperature.

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and butter until combined and smooth.

Then slowly add in the confectioners’ sugar (1 cup at a time) on low speed until well combined.

Then stir in the vanilla extract and milk until combined. Then add a few drops of the green food coloring until the frosting is a bright green color similar to a Christmas tree.

Then use a 1M piping tip and a decorator’s bag, fill it with the green frosting.

Gently frosting each cupcake.  You want to slowly build up the frosting on top of the cupcake using a circular motion to resemble a Tree sitting on top of the cupcake.

Then place a star on the top of each cupcake and use the candy balls to decorate the cupcakes to resemble ornaments.

Then the cupcakes are ready to serve and enjoy!