Moist Rich Chocolate Cupcakes (Printable)

Tender, rich chocolate cupcakes with moist crumb, ideal for celebrations or indulgent moments.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

07 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk
09 - 1/3 cup vegetable oil
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
11 - 1/2 cup hot water

→ Optional Frosting

12 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
13 - 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
14 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
15 - 2 tablespoons milk
16 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
17 - Pinch of salt

# How-to Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - Sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
03 - Whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth.
04 - Add wet ingredients to dry and mix until just incorporated.
05 - Gradually stir in hot water until batter is smooth but thin.
06 - Divide batter evenly into liners, filling each two-thirds full.
07 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - Let cupcakes cool in tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - Beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and salt; beat until fluffy.
10 - Once cooled, frost cupcakes as desired.

# Expert Pointers:

01 -
  • It yields moist cupcakes that feel like a secret indulgence you don't have to hide.
  • The uncomplicated ingredients come together quickly, making it a go-to for both celebrations and everyday treats.
02 -
  • Don't overmix the batter; it keeps your cupcakes tender and prevents toughness.
  • Adding hot water to the batter enhances the cocoa and gives a surprisingly moist crumb.
03 -
  • Perfect cupcakes come from measuring and mixing gently, so take your time with dry and wet ingredients.
  • Using hot water with cocoa powder actually intensifies that deep chocolate flavor, making it unforgettable.