Description
Indulge in these moist and rich Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes featuring a luscious chocolate base paired with a creamy mocha Russian buttercream frosting. This decadent American dessert blends chocolate and espresso flavors perfectly, making it an ideal treat for special occasions or a gourmet dessert at home.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 2/3 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp espresso powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup coffee, room temperature
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Mocha Frosting
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, chilled (1 can)
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tsp espresso powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cupcake pans with liners to prepare for baking 24 cupcakes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and flavor.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the room temperature buttermilk, coffee, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which can make cupcakes dense.
- Fill Cupcake Liners and Bake: Spoon the batter into cupcake liners, filling each about halfway. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cupcakes: Remove cupcakes from the oven and allow to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the room temperature butter on medium-high speed for 5-7 minutes until fluffy and creamy.
- Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk: Gradually add the chilled sweetened condensed milk by pouring about a quarter can at a time while continuing to beat. This will lighten and fluff the butter mixture.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the melted chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and espresso powder thoroughly until the frosting is smooth and evenly flavored.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag or an offset spatula to apply the mocha buttercream evenly over the tops.
- Optional Decoration: Enhance presentation by garnishing with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or espresso beans for a refined touch.
Notes
- Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix batter to keep cupcakes light and airy.
- Chilling the sweetened condensed milk before adding it to the frosting helps achieve a fluffier texture.
- Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute espresso powder with instant coffee granules if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American