German Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

German Chocolate Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic German Chocolate Cake, transforming it into individual, easy-to-enjoy portions. These cupcakes feature rich chocolate cake topped with a creamy coconut-pecan frosting, delivering the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a treat, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients for German Chocolate Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup hot water

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

How to Make German Chocolate Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until well combined.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth and well combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency, about 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
4. Allow the frosting to cool and thicken slightly before spreading it onto the cooled cupcakes.

Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of the coconut-pecan frosting on top of each cupcake.
2. Garnish with additional chopped pecans or shredded coconut if desired.
3. Serve and enjoy your delicious German Chocolate Cupcakes!

About the Main Ingredients

Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the cupcakes their rich chocolate flavor. It’s essential for achieving that deep, satisfying chocolate taste.

Buttermilk: This ingredient adds moisture to the cupcakes and reacts with the baking soda to help the cupcakes rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.

Shredded Coconut: Used in the frosting, shredded coconut adds a chewy texture and a sweet, nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Pecans: Chopped pecans in the frosting add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor, making the frosting even more delicious and satisfying.

Evaporated Milk: This ingredient helps create a smooth and creamy frosting. It’s less sweet than sweetened condensed milk, which balances the overall sweetness of the frosting.

With these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to create German Chocolate Cupcakes that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Enjoy your baking and the delicious results!