GO RUSTIC . . . . . BAKE IT IN a CAN!

Finding things to decorate for a Halloween party is easy and fun!  I wanted to make something that I could not find on the Internet,  so I baked a muffin in an  aluminum ( not galvanized)  can and decorated the can!  I was not sure it could even be accomplished.  My first approach was a little disappointing so I tried it again and succeeded!  It was so fun! This instructable is how I made it.

I am a little embarrassed to share these bloopers, but I did it so you don't have to experience the great disappointment like I did.  Yours can be perfect the first the time around!  The cans I used were too tall and not large enough around.  I changed the can to a shorter, fatter can and that is just what I needed.  I added rocks in the bottom of the can, because I thought it was still a little bit too tall.  It turned out that it would have been fine, I just needed to add more batter.  I wanted it to look more like a mushroom.  So the next time I make these I will fill the can a little more.

1. Tin cans one for each dinner guest. ( Aluminum not galvanized.  The way to tell is it won't attach to a magnet. )   If in doubt use Google search on cooking in a can.
2. Pliers.
3. Glue gun.
4. Glue sticks.
5. Small rocks if needed.
6. Embellishments for the can:  Ribbon, cork, jute, buttons, miniature glasses, burlap, small silk flower, and small desert plate.
7. Muffin mix or (recipe for muffin, cake, or bread.)
8. Paper cupcake cups.
9. Cookie sheet, not shown in picture.
10. Silicone.

Clean the can being very careful not to cut yourself on the rim.  If you are concerned about that, first fix the sharp edge on the can by using a pair of pliers and then wash your can.  I washed the can first and then clamped the edge around the can.  Later we will be putting a finished edge around the can, so no one can get cut.
 

If you are using a muffin mix, follow the directions on the box or find a recipe that you like. The only thing you will be doing differently is baking them in the tin can, as well as using a cookie sheet. Using paper cups will help to release the muffin more easily, so you can decorate the can.

Spoon the batter into the paper lined cans, slightly more than 3/4 full.  You might test one muffin to make sure you have the correct amount for the can, as well as the proper cooking time.  Cook according to the recipe's instructions. Remove from the oven and let set for five minutes.  Remove the muffins and wash the tin can.  Some of the muffin papers turned brown so I just replaced them with new ones.  
 

Here are just a few decorations to give you ideas of what you can use to decorate your cans.  For best results keep your decorations small and simple.  Before you decorate the cans make sure you have finished baking the muffins.  Remove the muffins.  Decorate your cans to compliment your theme.   Next use silicone to cover the rough edges of the inside of the can.  This will keep your guest safe. 

Your dinner guest will feel loved with muffins made with such care and attention.  Your party is sure to be a huge success with all your hard work.  You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a party.  You can add elegance to the cans by adding shiny ribbon, crystals, or a small amount of lace.