Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe
Category: Desserts | Servings: 12
Chocolate cupcakes are a classic treat that never disappoints. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply as a sweet snack, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring that you create perfectly moist and chocolatey cupcakes every time.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter (room temperature) | 120g |
| All-purpose flour (00 flour) | 120g |
| Dark chocolate (chopped) | 80g |
| Granulated sugar | 120g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Whole milk | 40g |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 20g |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Sugars | 19g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- Begin by sifting the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder together in a large bowl. This will ensure that all the dry ingredients are well combined and free of any lumps, giving your cupcakes a smooth texture.
-
Melt the Dark Chocolate:
- Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces, and melt it using either a double boiler (bagnomaria) or in the microwave. If using the microwave, heat the chocolate in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring between each interval to prevent it from burning. Once melted, set the chocolate aside to cool slightly.
-
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In another large bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The creaming process is crucial for creating a light texture in your cupcakes.
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Incorporate the Eggs:
- Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue mixing until the batter becomes smooth and fluffy. This step ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated into the batter and adds structure to the cupcakes.
-
Add the Milk:
- Pour in the milk and mix well using the electric mixer. The milk adds moisture to the batter, making the cupcakes soft and tender. Continue mixing until the mixture is well combined.
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Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, a little at a time. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together in circular motions from the outside in. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the cupcakes to be dense.
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Add the Melted Chocolate:
- Once the batter is smooth and well-combined, add the melted dark chocolate to the mixture. Fold it in gently with the spatula until it is fully incorporated, creating a rich chocolate flavor throughout the batter.
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Optional Add-ins:
- For an extra burst of flavor and texture, you can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a few spoonfuls of hazelnut crunch to the batter. Gently fold these into the batter to distribute evenly.
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Fill the Cupcake Liners:
- Transfer the cupcake batter into a piping bag (without a nozzle), which will help you fill the cupcake liners evenly. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Pipe the batter into each liner, filling them about 3/4 full. This ensures that the cupcakes have room to rise but do not overflow during baking.
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Bake the Cupcakes:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) in static mode. Place the muffin tin in the center of the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check the cupcakes toward the end.
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Cool the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them completely ensures that the cupcakes set properly and will have the perfect texture.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Your homemade chocolate cupcakes are now ready to be served. These cupcakes are delicious on their own, but you can top them with a dollop of whipped cream, frosting, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cupcakes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to the fluffy texture of the cupcakes.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes.
- Check for Doneness: Always check the doneness of your cupcakes by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cupcakes are done. If not, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
- Decorating Ideas: These chocolate cupcakes are versatile when it comes to decoration. Consider topping them with chocolate ganache, colorful sprinkles, or even fresh berries for a festive touch.
Final Thoughts
These chocolate cupcakes are the perfect balance of rich, dark chocolate flavor and light, fluffy texture. They make a fantastic dessert for any occasion and are sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes will become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy the deliciously rich flavors and share them with family and friends—you won’t be disappointed!
