Introduction
Mocha cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly balance the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee. Their moist texture and indulgent frosting make them an ideal dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a casual get-together, or just a sweet craving at home. These cupcakes are simple to make and are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup cocoa powder
2 tablespoons instant coffee
Simple Chocolate Frosting
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup salted butter, room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and instant coffee to ensure there are no lumps.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined and no dry streaks remain.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting Directions
1. Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted chocolate, room-temperature salted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Using an electric hand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, frost them with the prepared chocolate frosting.
Note: Ensure the cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and instant coffee to ensure there are no lumps.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined and no dry streaks remain.
Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Step 7: Bake Cupcakes
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Cupcakes
Remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Simple Chocolate Frosting
Step 1: Melt Chocolate
Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Step 2: Mix Frosting Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted chocolate, room-temperature salted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Beat Mixture
Using an electric hand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Frost Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, frost them with the prepared chocolate frosting.
Notes
Note 1
Ensure the cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Cook techniques
Creaming
Creaming is the process of mixing butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This technique helps incorporate air, which gives the cupcakes a light texture. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Sifting
Sifting the dry ingredients, including flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder, ensures that there are no lumps and promotes even distribution of the ingredients. This results in a smoother batter and better texture in the cupcakes.
Folding
Folding is a gentle mixing technique used to combine dry and wet ingredients without deflating the batter. Use a spatula to scoop from the bottom of the bowl and lift the batter over itself until just combined.
Baking
Baking at the right temperature and time is crucial for perfect cupcakes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, ensuring the cupcakes are not overbaked or underbaked.
Cooling
Cooling the cupcakes in the tin for a few minutes allows them to set, then transferring them to a wire rack lets them cool completely. This prevents sogginess and ensures the frosting stays intact when applied.
FAQ
Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, so if using it, omit the baking powder from the recipe.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can use oil instead of butter, but it will change the texture and flavor. Melted coconut oil or vegetable oil is a suitable substitute.
What can I use instead of instant coffee?
You can use brewed coffee, espresso powder, or omit it entirely if you prefer a non-coffee flavor.
How can I make the frosting smoother?
Ensure your butter is at room temperature, and beat the frosting longer to achieve a creamy texture. Sifting the powdered sugar can also help.
How long can I store the cupcakes?
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
Mocha cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly marries the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee. Their soft, moist texture combined with the simplicity of chocolate frosting creates an indulgent dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mocha Espresso Brownies
Rich brownies made with chocolate and a hit of espresso for a deliciously decadent dessert.
Coffee Cream Pudding
A creamy pudding combining coffee and chocolate flavors, perfect for a light but indulgent finish to a meal.
Chocolate-Coffee Muffins
Similar to the mocha cupcakes, but baked as muffins, these are perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Hazelnut Mocha Cake
A rich layered cake featuring mocha-flavored sponge and hazelnut cream, ideal for celebrations.
Cocoa Coffee Smoothie
A refreshing mix of coffee, cocoa powder, banana, and almond milk for a quick energy boost.
Mocha Ice Cream Sundae
A delightful dessert featuring mocha ice cream topped with chocolate syrup and whipped cream for a perfect treat.
