Bake cupcakes according to your preferred recipe or box mix and level the tops if domed.

Prepare frosting by mixing butter, confectioner's sugar, vanilla, and milk; use vegetable shortening for better piping.

Frost a circle around the edge of each cupcake to support the petals.

Fill another piping bag with frosting and pipe petals around the cupcake, filling in gaps.

Melt yellow candy melts and pipe dollops onto parchment paper, sprinkle with nonpareils, and let cool.

Roll yellow fondant into an oval for the bee's body.

Roll black fondant flat, cut into strips, and wrap around the yellow body.

Shape a small piece of black fondant into a cone for the stinger and attach it.

Roll small balls of black fondant for eyes and attach them to the bee's body.

Form small circles of white fondant for wings and attach them to the bee's body.

Position the bee on top of the cupcake and secure with a toothpick if necessary.