Craving something sweet but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? These decadent chocolate cupcakes with fluffy vanilla frosting are the perfect solution! This easy recipe is ideal for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, promising moist, intensely chocolatey cupcakes topped with a cloud of creamy vanilla goodness. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful homemade treat – a perfect addition to any gathering or a simple yet satisfying self-indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Vanilla Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Making the Chocolate Cupcakes:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix!
- Fill Liners: Fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Vanilla Frosting:
- Cream Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add Milk & Vanilla: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add more powdered sugar if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the vanilla frosting.
Tips for Perfect Cupcakes:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cupcakes while they bake. Baking times can vary depending on your oven.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Variations:
- Chocolate Frosting: Swap the vanilla frosting for your favorite chocolate frosting recipe.
- Add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to the cupcake batter for added texture and flavor.
- Different Flavors: Experiment with different extracts like almond or peppermint for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per cupcake, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 25-30g
These delicious chocolate cupcakes with vanilla frosting are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the delightful results!