Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes

Rich, moist, and irresistibly decadent, chocolate fudge cupcakes are a chocolate lover’s dream. These cupcakes boast a tender crumb and a deep cocoa flavor, topped with a luscious fudge frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a midweek indulgence, they’re easy to make and even easier to devour. Serve them as-is or with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a bakery-worthy finish.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup hot water or brewed coffee (for enhanced chocolate flavor)

For the Fudge Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Stir in the hot water or coffee until smooth.
5. Bake the Cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Make the Fudge Frosting: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt until the frosting is thick and creamy.
7. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, spread or pipe the fudge frosting on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.

These chocolate fudge cupcakes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and elevate any dessert table with their indulgent flavor and stunning appearance!