Serving Suggestion
Specialty foil cupcake baking cups (available at most bulk food stores) will add a special 'space' element to the martian cupcakes.
Shortcut
Omit pudding mix, sugar and milk. Tint 2-1/4 cups thawed Cool Whip Whipped Topping with green food colouring; spread onto cooled cupcakes. Continue as directed.
Keeping it Safe
Remove and discard silver hard candies before serving cake.