Chocolate cupcakes are a beloved dessert that never fails to bring joy. With their rich, moist cake base and creamy frosting, these little treats are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy nights in. Whether topped with chocolate buttercream, Baileys cream cheese frosting, or a decadent chocolate ganache, every bite is a celebration of chocolatey goodness.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup hot water or coffee
For the Chocolate Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
Make the Cupcakes:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Combine Batter: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Stir in hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Make the Frosting:
Beat Butter: In a bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Add salt and vanilla extract.
Mix and Adjust: Gradually add heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy.
Decorate: Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Garnish with sprinkles or chocolate shavings.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Use hot coffee instead of water: It enhances the chocolate flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter: This keeps the cupcakes light and fluffy.
Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting.
Try different frostings: Baileys cream cheese frosting, salted caramel buttercream, or chocolate ganache make great variations.
Decorate creatively: Top with sprinkles, chocolate curls, or a drizzle of caramel.
Chocolate cupcakes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, offering a burst of chocolate in every bite. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for any event. Whether you prefer a classic chocolate buttercream or an extra indulgent ganache topping, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit!