I know I sound like a complete newbie right now, but I really need help. I love baking as a hobby and everyone says I'm quite good, but here's my problem: 

My cupcakes don't come out perfectly smooth on the top so I can't dip them and decorate. 

Please, I would love to know how to get that right :) 

Thanks :) xx

ATry turning the heat down in your oven or once they're cooled, level them with a knife.

I agree, try changing the temperature. I would test bake a couple cupcakes at a time to see what works best, that way you aren't wasting batter. Also, maybe try adding a little less batter to each liner. Good luck!

Check out this thread http://cakecentral.com/t/603740/make-cupcakes-dome