Cupcakes are a classic treat that everyone loves, and when you add a surprise twist, they become even more delightful. These Chocolate Cherry Surprise Cupcakes offer a hidden burst of cherry goodness inside a rich, chocolatey base. The combination of flavors and textures makes these cupcakes a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it’s a special celebration or just a sweet treat for yourself.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step to create these scrumptious cupcakes that are sure to impress. From preparing the ingredients to baking and decorating, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make these irresistible chocolate cherry delights.
Ingredients for Irresistible Chocolate Cherry Surprise Cupcakes
For the Cupcake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cupcakes, giving them structure.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cupcake’s texture.
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds moisture.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) boiling water: Enhances the chocolate flavor and helps to combine the ingredients.
- 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cupcakes their rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Provides additional leavening.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the chocolate flavor.
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 cup (240ml) cherry pie filling: Provides a sweet, tart surprise inside the cupcakes.
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened: Forms the base of the frosting.
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds chocolate flavor to the frosting.
- 2-3 tbsp milk: Adjusts the consistency of the frosting.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the frosting.
How to Make Irresistible Chocolate Cherry Surprise Cupcakes
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease it lightly. This will prevent the cupcakes from sticking and make for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Cupcake Batter
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensure a smooth batter.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter and sugar, which helps to make the cupcakes light.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense cupcakes.
Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be quite thin, but this is normal and helps to create a moist cupcake.
3. Fill the Cupcake Liners
Spoon a small amount of batter into each cupcake liner, filling them about one-third full. This creates a base layer for the cherry filling.
Place a teaspoon of cherry pie filling in the center of each cupcake. You can use the back of the spoon to gently press the filling down. Top with more batter, filling each liner about two-thirds full.
4. Bake the Cupcakes
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cupcakes should be set and slightly domed.
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined.
Add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Mix in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
6. Frost and Decorate
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the chocolate frosting using a piping bag or a knife. You can also add sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or a cherry on top for extra decoration.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the cupcakes on a platter or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy the delightful surprise of the cherry filling with every bite!
About the Main Ingredients
Cocoa Powder
Unsweetened cocoa powder is the primary ingredient for the rich chocolate flavor in these cupcakes. It’s made from roasted cocoa beans, which are ground and processed to remove the cocoa butter, leaving behind a concentrated chocolate flavor.
Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry pie filling is used to provide a sweet and tart surprise inside each cupcake. It’s typically made from cherries, sugar, and thickening agents, and is a convenient way to add fruit flavor without needing fresh or frozen cherries.
Unsalted Butter
Unsalted butter is used in both the cupcake batter and frosting to add richness and moisture. It’s important to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar is used to sweeten and thicken the frosting. Its fine texture allows it to blend smoothly into the butter, creating a creamy and spreadable frosting.
By following these steps and using high-quality ingredients, you’ll create delicious and visually appealing Chocolate Cherry Surprise Cupcakes that are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy baking and indulging in these sweet treats!
