Delicious Mocha Cupcakes Recipe for Chocolate Lovers
Attention coffee and chocolate lovers! Have you ever wanted to combine the delicious flavors of both in a single dessert? Well, look no further because I’ve got the perfect recipe for you: chocolate mocha cupcakes!
Brewed coffee, rich cocoa powder, and dark chocolate combine to form the perfect cupcake. Moist and fluffy with just the right amount of sweetness, it’s impossible to resist these decadent treats. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple and fun to make.
As a barista and avid baker myself, I know that coffee and chocolate are a match made in heaven. That’s why I can confidently say that this recipe will not disappoint. So grab your apron and get ready to whip up some mocha magic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of chocolate and coffee? If so, you’ll fall in love with these delicious mocha cupcakes that will satisfy your craving for something sweet and comforting. This recipe is perfect for any occasion such as birthdays or even for a simple treat at home.
What sets these cupcakes apart is the combination of rich dark chocolate, unsweetened cocoa powder, and freshly brewed coffee that creates a smooth and robust flavor. The addition of instant espresso powder elevates the taste of these cupcakes to another level, making it one of the best dessert choices out there.
But wait, there’s more! These moist and decadent cupcakes are also topped off with a silky espresso buttercream frosting that complements the chocolate and coffee flavors perfectly. One bite of these cupcakes will leave you wanting more—a perfect example of how simple ingredients can make a huge impact.
Moreover, this recipe is straightforward to follow, and anyone can do it. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can still produce impressive results with this mocha cupcake recipe. So why look elsewhere when everything you need is already in your pantry?
In conclusion, this mocha cupcake recipe is the perfect treat for chocolate and coffee lovers who want to indulge in something rich, moist, and heavenly. Whether it’s for yourself or for friends and family, this recipe will leave everyone impressed with its taste and texture. So go ahead and try it out—you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients needed to make these delicious mocha cupcakes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 1 tsp. salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup cold brewed coffee or strong coffee, cooled to room temperature
- 1 cup canola oil
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 3 teaspoons cider vinegar
For the chocolate mocha filling:
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted and cooled
- 3 tablespoons brewed coffee or espresso
- Powdered sugar, to thicken as needed
For the espresso buttercream frosting:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Up to ½ cup brewed coffee, cooled to room temperature
The Recipe How-To
Now that the ingredients are ready, it’s time to get started on the recipe. Here is everything you need to know about making the perfect mocha cupcakes.
Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with muffin tins. Then, lightly grease the cups with butter or oil.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder.
Stir all these ingredients thoroughly until well blended.
Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
Using another mixing bowl, mix together 2 large room temperature eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ¾ cup of cold brewed coffee.
Add in melted butter, canola oil, and cider vinegar then whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Use a whisk to combine them until the batter is smooth.
But don’t overmix! You don’t want tough cupcakes.
Step 5: Bake in Preheated Oven
Scoop batter into muffin tins until they’re about two-thirds full. Bake in preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes or until they pass the toothpick test. To do so, insert a toothpick or skewer in the center of each cupcake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s done!
Step 6: Cool Cupcakes Completely
Let clear some space on your table for your cooling rack. Once you remove your cupcakes from the oven, let them cool in the muffin pan for about 5 minutes.
After that, remove each cupcake from the pan and place each one onto the cooling rack. Let your mocha cupcakes cool off completely before slicing or frosting as needed.
Congratulations! You have made yummy mocha cupcakes that’s ready to be served to your loved ones. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
If you are looking for ways to add your own spin to this already delectable mocha cupcakes recipe or perhaps need to make some substitutions due to dietary restrictions, then look no further. Here are some variations and substitutions you can make:
– Chocolate-flavored coffee: Use chocolate-flavored coffee instead of regular brewed coffee for a more intense chocolate flavor.
– Mini cupcakes: If you want bite-sized treats, turn this recipe into mini cupcakes by simply reducing the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
– Gluten-free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cupcakes gluten-free.
– Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, replace the eggs with 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
– Espresso Buttercream Frosting: For an extra shot of espresso flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the buttercream frosting recipe in place of vanilla extract.
– Hostess Cupcake Filling: If you are a fan of Hostess cupcakes, then try filling these mocha cupcakes with a simple mixture of confectioners’ sugar and marshmallow cream. Fill a piping bag with this mixture and squeeze into each cupcake.
Remember, it’s essential not to overmix the batter when making substitutions; otherwise, you risk making the cupcakes dry and dense. Keep the right balance of wet and dry ingredients in mind when substituting during baking.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your beautiful mocha cupcakes are ready, it’s time to enjoy them. These chocolatey delights are perfect to serve at your next party, potluck, or simply as a treat for yourself.
For a simple and classic pairing, serve these delicious cupcakes with a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee. The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of coffee.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different, consider serving these cupcakes with a fruit tart. This will add a bright burst of flavor and complement the deep flavors of the mocha cupcakes.
Another great pairing for these cupcakes is chocolate ice cream – yes, it’s chocolate on chocolate but trust me, it’s worth it! You can also sprinkle some cocoa powder over the ice cream to take the flavor up a notch.
For those who prefer a little bit of contrast in their desserts, try serving these cupcakes with lemon curd. The tanginess of the lemon makes an excellent contrast to the richness of the mocha cupcakes.
Lastly, there’s something undeniable about enjoying mini cupcakes. If you’d like to serve mini mocha cupcakes instead of full-sized ones, this recipe can be easily modified.
Enjoy your delectable mocha cupcakes in any way that suits your mood and taste buds.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Mocha cupcakes are perfect for making ahead of time and enjoying for days. Whether you’re preparing them for an upcoming potluck or as a treat for yourself, these cupcakes are easy to store and reheat.
To make ahead, simply bake the cupcakes as directed in the recipe and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to five days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your cupcakes, there are two ways to reheat them. If you prefer warm, moist cupcakes, take them out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven by preheating to 350°F (175°C) and placing the cupcakes on a baking sheet, then warming them up for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
For those who don’t mind their cupcakes cold, you can consume them straight from the fridge. In fact, some people find that refrigerated cupcakes last longer and taste more delicious over time.
If you want to keep your homemade mocha cupcakes fresh for a long time, do not freeze them with frosting. Instead, freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container or freezer bag. To thaw frozen cupcakes so they retain their taste and texture, leave them on the countertop until it reaches room temperature.
Finally, keep in mind that reheating pre-dressed mocha cupcakes may lead to melting or messing up the frosting. Decorating your dessert after reheating could be preferable if you want your frosting perfectly luscious.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect mocha cupcakes, it is important to pay attention to a few key details. Follow these tips to ensure your cupcakes turn out moist, rich and bursting with chocolate and coffee flavors.
Firstly, do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause the batter to become tough and flat, resulting in dry cupcakes with a dense texture. When preparing the batter, mix until all ingredients are just combined. It’s okay if there are small flour lumps or cocoa powder specks in the mixture. These will disappear during baking.
Another tip is to use high-quality ingredients. Use dark chocolate of at least 60% cocoa solids for a richer flavor. Also, use freshly brewed coffee for both the cupcake batter and frosting to bring out the best coffee taste.
It’s important to measure the ingredients accurately so that you get the correct balance of sweetness, moisture and texture in your cupcakes. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of eye-balling ingredients to avoid any inaccuracies.
When baking the cupcakes, preheat your oven and put your oven racks in the center position. This ensures even heat distribution throughout baking time. It is also important not to open the oven door frequently as this causes temperature fluctuations that can affect how evenly the cupcakes bake.
For an extra moist cupcake, brush each cupcake with a little cold brewed coffee, or even better, espresso, before frosting them. This will add another layer of flavor while keeping them moist.
Lastly, let your cupcakes cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, which can be frustrating when serving your cupcakes. If you’re short on time and need to cool them quickly, you can put them in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes.
By following these simple tips, you will be able to make delicious and decadent chocolate mocha cupcakes that everyone will love!
FAQ
Now that you have all the details for making my delicious mocha cupcakes, you may still have a few questions. Don’t worry, it’s completely normal! In this section, I’ve compiled some common questions that people have asked me over the years and the answers to them. Please read through them carefully before proceeding with your recipe.
How to make mocha cupcakes from scratch?
For this recipe, you will need a cup of sugar, half a cup of cold brewed coffee, and half a cup of canola oil. You will also need two large eggs at room temperature, three teaspoons of cider vinegar, and three teaspoons of vanilla extract. In terms of dry ingredients, you will need one and a half cups of all-purpose flour and a third of a cup of baking cocoa.
What is the secret to moist cupcakes?
To achieve fluffy and moist cupcakes, it’s crucial to incorporate air bubbles into the batter, which will later expand during baking. Overmixing the batter can ruin the texture by destroying these bubbles, resulting in an unsatisfying cake-like product. Thus, it’s advised to mix at a low speed until all components combine, then immediately stop.
What is the secret to good cupcakes?
To ensure your cupcakes are fluffy and evenly baked, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in dry cupcakes. To evenly distribute the batter, use a cupcake scoop when filling your liners. Be mindful not to overfill the liners to prevent the batter from spilling over. When baking cupcakes, place them on the center rack of the oven for even heat distribution. To test if they are fully baked, use the touch test instead of a toothpick. Once done, remove the cupcakes from the pan and allow them to cool before decorating.
What is hostess cupcake filling made of?
If you’re wondering what’s inside a Hostess cupcake, it’s a creamy vanilla filling that perfectly complements the chocolate cake. If you want to try making your own version at home, you can create a delectable filling by combining butter, powdered sugar, and marshmallow cream. The resulting texture and taste will be so satisfying!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you are looking for a unique and delicious dessert idea, try out this chocolate mocha cupcakes recipe. With its rich cocoa flavor and coffee undertones, it is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. Not only is it simple to make, but it also offers numerous substitutions and variations so you can tailor it to fit your preferences. From the moist texture to the creamy buttercream frosting, this recipe is sure to please any chocolate lover.
So what’s the secret to perfecting this recipe? One key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. This can cause the cupcakes to become dry and lose their fluffy texture. Another tip is to use cold brewed coffee instead of hot, which enhances the coffee flavor and reduces bitterness. Additionally, be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Overall, these mocha cupcakes are an excellent treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a sweet indulgence. Try making them mini-sized for a bite-sized dessert option or experiment with different frosting flavors for a fun twist. With its combination of rich cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and brewed coffee, this recipe truly brings a Hostess cupcake-like experience right into your home kitchen!
Mocha Cupcakes Recipe
Ingredients
FOR THE CAKE
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup cold brewed coffee, plus
- 3 tablespoons brewed cold coffee
- 1/2 cup oil, plus
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 3 teaspoons cider vinegar
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
FOR THE FROSTING
- 6 1/2 tablespoons dark chocolate
- 1/3 cup butter, softened, plus
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 2 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
- 4 tablespoons brewed coffee
- 2 -3 tablespoons chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, coffee, oil, vinegar and vanilla until well blended. In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into coffee mixture until blended. Do not over mix (this will cause tough cupcakes).
- Fill paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full.(note: for cupcakes to all be the same size; use a 1/4-1/3 measuring cup to fill your cups). Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and the cupcakes are a rather light gold, and mildly fluffed. Cool for about 10 minutes outside of the pan (to avoid residule cooking) before frosting *as below* .
- For frosting, in a microwave or over a saucepan, melt chocolate and butter; stir until smooth. Transfer to a large bowl. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar and coffee at a high rate until smooth and holding (also, if the frosting seems a tad runny; add a sprinkle more confectioners sugar/ coocoa powder). Pipe frosting onto cupcakes. Top with chopped chocolate bits.
- Refridgerate for 6-7 days to keep fresh.
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