Prepare cake mix according to package directions. Add 1 Tablespoon raspberry extract and mix to incorporate flavor.
Divide batter into two equal parts.
To one half, add 12 drops red food coloring and 4 drops blue to make dusty rose.
To the other half, add 24 drops red food coloring and 16 blue drops to make pretty purple.
Line 24 cupcake tins with liners.
Drop Tablespoons full of the pretty purple cake batter into the liners. Top with Tablespoons of the dusty rose cake batter.
Bake cupcakes as directed, until a toothpick comes out cleanly.
Let cool completely before coring and frosting.
Once cupcakes are completely cooled, use your OXO cupcake corer to remove the centers of the cupcakes.
Fill each cupcake with M&Ms candies (I found that 1 teaspoon was perfect).
For the frosting, add 6 drops of red food coloring plus 2 drops of blue to make dusty rose. Add 1 teaspoon raspberry extract to flavor. Mix until the color is completely even throughout.
Frost cupcakes starting in the center to cover the candies and work your way to the edge.