Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats
Experience the ultimate winter treat with these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes that capture the cozy essence of your favorite warm beverage. These rich chocolate cupcakes are topped with marshmallow frosting and finished with a drizzle of chocolate ganache, making them the perfect indulgence for holiday gatherings or a comforting dessert on a chilly evening.
The Joy of Baking
Baking is more than just following a recipe; it's an emotional experience that brings families and friends together. The aroma of chocolate wafting through your home can evoke memories of cozy winter evenings and holiday celebrations. These Hot Chocolate Cupcakes not only deliver a delicious flavor but also create an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness, reminding you of the joy of sharing treats with loved ones.
The beauty of cupcakes lies in their versatility. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in. By making these decadent Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, you can easily impress your guests while enjoying a bit of nostalgia. Each bite is a reminder of the comfort and joy that a simple cupcake can provide.
Perfect Pairings
These Hot Chocolate Cupcakes pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving them alongside a steaming cup of hot chocolate, spiced cider, or even a rich espresso. The chocolate flavor in the cupcakes complements these drinks, creating a delightful tasting experience that enhances the overall enjoyment of your dessert.
For a festive option, try pairing these cupcakes with peppermint tea or coffee. The refreshing notes of peppermint highlight the rich chocolate and creamy frosting, making your dessert time feel extraordinary. Offering different pairings allows your guests to explore flavors and adds a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
Why Customize?
Although these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are delicious as is, there’s always room for personalization. Experiment with flavored extracts, such as peppermint or cinnamon, to enhance the cupcakes’ rich chocolate flavor. You can even add a hint of espresso powder to amplify the chocolate taste or swap out the mini marshmallows for holiday-themed sprinkles to make them festive.
Baking is a canvas for creativity. You can also try using different types of chocolate, such as dark or milk chocolate, to cater to your preferences. Always remember, the best part of baking is making it your own, ensuring that each cupcake reflects your personal touch.
Ingredients
Cupcake Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 tsp white vinegar
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Ganache Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Gather all the ingredients before you start baking!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, hot water, and vinegar.
Combine Both Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Fill the Cupcake Liners
Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting
While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla.
Make the Ganache
Heat the cream in a small saucepan until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Frost the Cupcakes
Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the marshmallow frosting and sprinkle with mini marshmallows.
Drizzle Ganache
Finally, drizzle chocolate ganache on top for an extra touch.
Enjoy your delicious Hot Chocolate Cupcakes!
Helpful Tips
To ensure the moistest cupcakes, avoid overmixing your batter. Mix until just combined, and you'll end up with the perfect texture. Also, using room-temperature ingredients can make a significant difference in the final product, so try to bring your eggs and butter to room temperature before you begin.
Letting the cupcakes cool completely before frosting is key. This prevents the frosting from melting, allowing the marshmallow topping to stay fluffy and appealing. If you need to decorate them later, you can store the unfrosted cakes in an airtight container for a day or two.
Storing and Freezing
If you find yourself with leftover Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, storing them properly is crucial. They can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you need to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy frozen cupcakes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before frosting if you prefer a warm treat. This way, you can savor the rich flavors even after the holiday season.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Just frost them right before serving.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for the ganache.
Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Experience the ultimate winter treat with these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes that capture the cozy essence of your favorite warm beverage. These rich chocolate cupcakes are topped with marshmallow frosting and finished with a drizzle of chocolate ganache, making them the perfect indulgence for holiday gatherings or a comforting dessert on a chilly evening.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 cupcakes
What You'll Need
Cupcake Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 tsp white vinegar
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Ganache Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, hot water, and vinegar.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla.
Heat the cream in a small saucepan until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the marshmallow frosting and sprinkle with mini marshmallows.
Finally, drizzle chocolate ganache on top for an extra touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 3g