Cupcakes can crack on top for several reasons. Here are some common causes. High oven temperature: If the oven temperature is too high, the cupcakes can rise too quickly, causing the tops to crack. Make sure to preheat your oven to the correct temperature as specified in the recipe, and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. Uneven oven temperature: An uneven oven temperature can cause uneven baking and cracking. Ensure that your oven is properly calibrated and that heat is evenly distributed. Consider rotating the cupcake pans halfway through baking if you notice unevenness. Rapid temperature changes: Drastic temperature changes during baking can lead to cracks. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently or too early in the baking process, as this can cause sudden changes in temperature. Lack of moisture: Insufficient moisture in the cupcake batter can result in dryness and cracking. Double-check that you've included the correct amount of liquid ingredients specified in the recipe. Pan placement in the oven: Placing the cupcake pans too close to the oven's heating element can cause excessive heat on the tops of the cupcakes, leading to cracking. Ensure that the pans are positioned in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.