Cherry Chocolate Cupcake Delight
Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries with these Cherry Chocolate Cupcakes. Perfect for any occasion!
Cherry Chocolate Cupcake Delight combines two classic flavors into a moist and fluffy cupcake that is sure to impress. The tartness of cherries perfectly complements the richness of chocolate, creating a dessert that is both sweet and slightly tangy. Ideal for parties or a sweet treat any day of the week!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh cherries
- Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Cherry Chocolate Cupcake Delight is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that can elevate any gathering. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, an anniversary, or even a casual get-together, these cupcakes are sure to impress your guests. The balance of tart cherries and rich chocolate creates a unique taste that leaves a lasting impression.
These cupcakes are not limited to special occasions. They make for a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea during a quiet afternoon. Their moist texture and vibrant flavors make them an irresistible snack any time of day.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your Cherry Chocolate Cupcakes turn out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can affect the final product. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour and cocoa powder to avoid packing these ingredients into your measuring cup.
Incorporating the cherries into the batter can be tricky, as they can sink to the bottom if not mixed properly. Gently fold them in at the end to distribute them evenly throughout the batter. This way, every bite will offer that delightful burst of cherry flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding different flavors or ingredients. For example, consider adding a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor, or mix in some chocolate chips for an added chocolatey richness. If you're a fan of nuts, chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
You can also switch up the frosting! While the chocolate frosting pairs beautifully, a cream cheese frosting or whipped cream could provide a lighter, tangy contrast to the rich cupcakes. Top with additional cherries or chocolate shavings for a stunning presentation.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted and chopped
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start!
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Cupcake Liners
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy, then add the eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk. Mix until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped cherries.
Bake the Cupcakes
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting
While the cupcakes cool, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
Frost the Cupcakes
Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the chocolate frosting using a piping bag or a knife.
Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy your Cherry Chocolate Cupcake Delights with friends and family!
These cupcakes are best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Storing Your Cupcakes
To keep your Cherry Chocolate Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store them longer, consider refrigerating them, but be aware that refrigeration may affect their texture. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
If you've made a large batch and want to save some for later, these cupcakes freeze exceptionally well. Simply wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutritional Information
While these Cherry Chocolate Cupcakes are undoubtedly a treat, it's good to be mindful of their nutritional content. Each cupcake contains a blend of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making them a satisfying dessert option. The addition of cherries also provides some vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to their overall appeal.
If you're looking to make a lighter version, consider reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute. You can also experiment with whole wheat flour for added nutrients. Just keep in mind that these changes might slightly alter the texture and flavor, so it's best to try them in smaller batches.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.
→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can make your own buttermilk by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Cherry Chocolate Cupcake Delight
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries with these Cherry Chocolate Cupcakes. Perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Tasty Treat Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 cupcakes
What You'll Need
For the Cupcakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted and chopped
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy, then add the eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped cherries.
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cupcakes cool, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the chocolate frosting using a piping bag or a knife.
Enjoy your Cherry Chocolate Cupcake Delights with friends and family!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g