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There’s something inherently magical about chocolate cupcakes that draws people in, captivating their taste buds and hearts alike. With their rich, velvety flavors and moist, tender crumb, these delightful treats have become a staple at celebrations, gatherings, and even quiet moments at home. The allure of chocolate cupcakes lies not only in their indulgent taste but also in their versatility; they can be dressed up for a wedding or dressed down for a cozy afternoon tea.

Copycat Chocolate Hostess Cupcake

Indulge in the magic of homemade chocolate cupcakes with our Chocolate Delight Cupcake Dreams recipe! Perfect for any occasion, these soft, rich cupcakes feature a creamy filling and a glossy chocolate ganache that elevates their flavor and presentation. Learn about the essential ingredients, including buttermilk and cocoa powder, and follow our step-by-step guide to create a delectable treat that’s sure to impress. Perfect for celebrations or cozy moments at home!

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

½ cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

For the Cream Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup vegetable shortening

4 cups powdered sugar

1 cup marshmallow fluff

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup heavy cream

For Decoration:

White frosting (or frosting pen) for signature swirl on top

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

        Add Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined (the batter will be quite thin, which is normal).

          Bake: Pour the batter into the cupcake liners until they are about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

            Prepare Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and shortening together until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing. Then, fold in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract until smooth. Transfer this filling to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.

              Fill Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a corer or a small knife to create a hole in the center of each cupcake. Fill each cupcake with the cream filling until it starts to overflow slightly.

                Make Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until just steaming. Remove from microwave and add chocolate chips. Let stand for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

                  Dip Cupcakes: Carefully dip the top of each filled cupcake into the chocolate ganache, allowing the excess to drip off before placing it back on the wire rack to set.

                    Decorate: Once the ganache is set (about 15-20 minutes), use white frosting or a frosting pen to pipe a swirl or squiggle pattern on top of each cupcake.

                      Serve & Enjoy: Enjoy these delectable chocolate cupcakes with friends and family!

                        Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 cupcakes