Sure thing. Pick a soft hardwood like pine or cedar – they’re cheap, easy to cut, and they’ll stand up to the weight of a dozen cupcakes. Cut two short legs, a short front piece and a long back piece, then miter the corners so you can just screw the joints together – no fancy dovetails needed. Lay a 12‑inch wide board on top and cut a 3‑inch wide channel in the middle for the cupcakes. Add a small lip on the front edge so they don’t slide off. If you want a bit more stability, glue a cross brace between the legs. Done, no extra tools, no fuss, and it’ll hold your cupcakes like a pro.

If you’re looking for a quick spruce‑up, a dab of lemon zest on the outside is fine. It won’t change the function, but it’ll give a fresh scent when you’re around. Just be careful not to put it on the top where the cupcakes sit – you don’t want the zest to melt into frosting. For a cleaner look, stick to a simple finish, maybe a coat of clear varnish or a little oil. That’ll keep the wood looking good and safe for food.

Sounds good. Just keep the varnish to a light coat, otherwise you’ll end up with a glossy mess. When it dries, give it a quick test with a crumb and you’re set. Good luck, and let those cupcakes stand proud.