Moist Chocolate Cupcakes (Printable version)
Tender, chocolate treats with a rich crumb and creamy frosting, ideal for celebrations or snacks.
# What you need:
→ Cupcake Batter
01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
09 - 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
10 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
11 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
12 - 1/2 cup hot water or hot coffee
→ Chocolate Frosting
13 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
14 - 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
16 - 2–3 tablespoons milk
17 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
18 - Pinch of salt
# How To:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
05 - Gently mix in hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth and thin.
06 - Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
07 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
08 - Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy, adjusting milk for desired consistency.
10 - Once fully cooled, frost cupcakes generously using a piping bag or spatula.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- These cupcakes stay incredibly moist with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth
- The rich chocolate frosting feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make at home
02 -
- Using hot coffee instead of water deepens the chocolate flavor making it extraordinary
- Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay to keep the texture tender
03 -
- Room temperature ingredients blend easier and create a better crumb
- The gentle fold after adding hot liquid is the secret to extra moist cupcakes