Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with these decadent death by chocolate cupcakes. For all the chocolate lovers out there, this recipe is a dream come true. Dark chocolate cupcakes, topped with a rich dark chocolate frosting, and sprinkled with chocolate chips, offer a deep, intense chocolate flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Inspired by the love for chocolate, these cupcakes are a testament to pure, unadulterated chocolate bliss. If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s fudgy, rich, and utterly indulgent, these death by chocolate cupcakes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of my popular chocolate cake recipes or simply can’t resist the allure of chocolate, these cupcakes are a must-try for any chocoholic.
Ingredients
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with these death by chocolate cupcakes. Perfect for any chocolate enthusiast, these cupcakes feature a dark chocolate base, a decadent chocolate ganache filling, a rich chocolate buttercream topping, and optional chocolate sprinkles for extra delight.
Chocolate Cupcake Base
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
Chocolate Ganache Filling
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Decadent Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Extra chocolate ganache for drizzling
Required Equipment
When preparing these decadent death by chocolate cupcakes, having the right equipment at hand can make the baking process much smoother and enjoyable.
Mixing Bowls and Utensils
For this recipe, you will need a few medium to large mixing bowls for blending the dry and wet ingredients together. Additionally, have a whisk or spatula on hand to combine the batter efficiently and ensure a smooth texture.
Cupcake Baking Tray
A standard cupcake baking tray is essential to bake these delicious chocolate cupcakes to perfection. Make sure to line the tray with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
Piping Bags and Tips
To add a professional touch to your cupcakes, consider using a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip to swirl the rich chocolate buttercream on top. This will not only enhance the presentation but also make frosting the cupcakes a breeze.
Preparation Steps
Let’s dive into the delicious preparation steps for creating these irresistible Death by Chocolate Cupcakes!
Preparing the Cupcake Batter
To kick off these decadent cupcakes, start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing the cupcake base. The rich and moist chocolate cupcake batter is made with oil instead of butter, resulting in a lighter, softer, and more moist cupcake base.
Making the Chocolate Ganache
Next up, we move on to creating the luscious chocolate ganache filling. Begin by heating heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to boil. Add in dark chocolate chips (or baker’s chocolate) along with vanilla extract and corn syrup for a glossy finish. Allow the ganache to thicken for about 15 minutes while you prepare the cupcakes for filling.
Creating the Buttercream Frosting
To complete these indulgent cupcakes, it’s time to whip up the rich chocolate buttercream frosting. Cream together unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, then add cocoa powder and vanilla extract for an extra burst of chocolatey goodness. Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes for the finishing touch.
Baking Directions
Baking the Cupcakes
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix semisweet chocolate chips, black cocoa powder, and
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and Irish whiskey until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the Guinness beer, and mix until just combined.
- Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the chocolate ganache filling by combining chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream in a heatproof bowl.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Allow the ganache to cool slightly.
- Using a cupcake corer or a small knife, remove the center of each cupcake.
- Fill the cavity with the prepared chocolate ganache, ensuring it’s level with the cupcake top.
- Replace the cake core on top of the filled cavity to seal the ganache inside.
- The cupcakes are now ready to be frosted with the rich chocolate buttercream and decorated with optional chocolate sprinkles.
Decorating
Decorating these Death by Chocolate Cupcakes is where the magic happens. Adding the final touches brings these decadent treats to a whole new level of indulgence.
Applying the Buttercream Frosting
- Once the cupcakes have cooled and the ganache filling is set, it’s time to frost them with the rich chocolate buttercream.
- Using a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 2d Tip for that perfect swirl, generously frost each cupcake with the luscious buttercream.
- Make sure to cover the entire top of the cupcake, creating a beautiful and delicious chocolate crown.
- To elevate the visual appeal and taste of the cupcakes, sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate sprinkles over the freshly piped buttercream.
- For an extra touch of elegance and flair, consider creating chocolate cupcake toppers using chocolate candy melts. Simply follow the optional steps mentioned earlier to craft intricate designs to adorn your cupcakes.
- These final decorations not only make the cupcakes visually stunning but also add extra bursts of chocolate flavor and texture, making each bite a delightful experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
When it comes to preserving your delightful Death by Chocolate Cupcakes, here are some handy storage and make-ahead tips:
Refrigeration and Freezing Instructions
If you have any leftovers or want to prepare your cupcakes in advance, here’s how you can store them:
- Refrigeration: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
- Freezing: To freeze the cupcakes, place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving or at room temperature for a few hours.
Tips for Making Cupcakes in Advance
Planning ahead can make serving these decadent cupcakes a breeze. Here are some tips for making your Death by Chocolate Cupcakes in advance:
- Bake and Freeze: You can bake the cupcakes ahead of time and freeze them unfrosted. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cupcakes and prepare the frosting for a fresh and delicious treat.
- Prepare Components Separately: If you want to break down the preparation process, you can make the cupcake batter, ganache filling, and buttercream frosting separately in advance. Assemble the cupcakes when you’re ready to serve for ultimate freshness.
By following these storage and make-ahead tips, you can ensure that your Death by Chocolate Cupcakes are always ready to satisfy your chocolate cravings with ease.
Conclusion
Creating Death by Chocolate Cupcakes is a delightful experience that promises a decadent treat for any chocolate lover. The rich layers of dark chocolate, velvety ganache, and creamy buttercream come together to form a heavenly dessert. By following the detailed recipe and tips provided, you can easily master the art of making these indulgent cupcakes. Whether stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for later enjoyment, these cupcakes retain their deliciousness. With the option to prepare components in advance, satisfying chocolate cravings has never been more convenient. Embrace the magic of chocolate with these Death by Chocolate Cupcakes and treat yourself to a truly luxurious dessert experience.