Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes

These Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes are rich, moist, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. Topped with a luscious fudge frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for any chocolate lover. Whether you’re making them for a party, special occasion, or just because, these indulgent treats are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-Chocolatey – Made with cocoa powder and melted chocolate for intense flavor.
• Moist & Fudgy – Soft, tender texture with a rich, fudge-like crumb.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Decadent Frosting – Smooth, creamy chocolate fudge frosting.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet craving!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• ½ cup hot water or hot coffee

For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup heavy cream (or milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup melted dark chocolate (optional for extra fudginess)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Muffin Tin

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

2. Make the Cupcake Batter

• In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In another bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined.
• Beat in eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth.
• Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with hot water or coffee until smooth.

3. Bake the Cupcakes

• Fill each cupcake liner ¾ full with batter.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let cool completely before frosting.

4. Make the Fudge Frosting

• Beat butter until smooth.
• Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt, and mix until fluffy.
• Stir in melted dark chocolate for extra richness.

5. Frost & Serve

• Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes.
• Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or sea salt.
• Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Extra Moist – Use buttermilk instead of sour cream.
• Mint Chocolate – Add ½ tsp peppermint extract to the batter.
• Nutty Version – Stir in ½ cup chopped hazelnuts or almonds.
• Caramel Swirl – Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cupcakes (without frosting) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Let come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use Dutch-process cocoa?

Yes! It will make the cupcakes even richer.

What’s the best way to frost these?

Use a piping bag with a star tip or simply spread with a knife.

Can I make mini cupcakes?

Yes! Bake for 10-12 minutes at 350°F.

How do I keep cupcakes from drying out?

Store with a slice of bread to keep them moist.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegan butter, dairy-free yogurt, and almond milk.

What’s the best chocolate for the frosting?

Use dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa) for a deep, rich taste.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Bake cupcakes a day ahead and frost before serving.

Can I add coffee to the frosting?

Yes! Add 1 tsp espresso powder for a mocha flavor.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Use dark chocolate instead of extra powdered sugar.

Can I stuff these cupcakes with fudge?

Yes! Scoop out the center and fill with chocolate ganache.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes are rich, moist, and full of deep chocolate flavor, making them the ultimate treat for any chocolate lover. Whether you enjoy them for a celebration or a simple dessert, they’re easy to make and incredibly delicious. Try them today and indulge in pure chocolate bliss!

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