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Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes

Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes are an irresistible treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the sweet tartness of cherries. These delightful little cakes are moist, decadent, and topped with a creamy cherry buttercream that will make any occasion feel special. Did you know that the combination of chocolate and cherries has been a favorite among dessert lovers for centuries? Legend has it that this delicious pairing traces back to European dessert tables, where the two flavors were brought together to create a culinary symphony. What sets these cupcakes apart is how simple and quick they are to prepare. In just under an hour, you can whip up a batch that will dazzle your family and friends—making them perfect for birthday parties, bake sales, or just an everyday sweet treat. If you're a fan of our popular Vanilla Cupcakes recipe, you’ll love how these chocolate cherry delights take the classic idea of a cupcake to a whole new level! Now, let’s explore how to make your own Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes and impress your loved ones with your baking prowess!
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries lightly patted dry
  • For the Cherry Buttercream:
  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice
  • 1-2 drops pink or red food coloring optional
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners to prepare for the batter.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure your cupcakes have a light and fluffy texture.
  • Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually stir in the hot water until the mixture is smooth.
  • Combine: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cupcakes dense.
  • Add the Cherries: Carefully fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Fill the Cups and Bake: Fill each cupcake liner about 3/4 full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Cool: Once baked, let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
  • Make the Cherry Buttercream: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, and then mix in the cherry juice, food coloring (if using), vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  • Frost and Garnish: Pipe the cherry buttercream on top of the cooled cupcakes and finish each with a whole maraschino cherry for that perfect touch.
  • What to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes With:
  • These Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes are a stand-out dessert on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness. You can also serve them alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for an indulgent afternoon treat or with a refreshing glass of milk for the kids. For an extra special touch, try serving them with a cherry compote drizzled on top!
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes:
  • Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality cocoa powder can make a significant difference in flavor. Choose a good brand for the richest taste.
  • Cherry Preparation: Make sure to pat the maraschino cherries dry before mixing them into the batter. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the cupcake texture.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense cupcakes. Gently combine until just mixed for a light and fluffy texture.
  • Decoration Ideas: Get creative with your frosting! Experiment with different piping tips to create beautiful designs.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips:
  • These Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re keeping them for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure they are well-wrapped! When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and you can even pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm and gooey treat.
  • Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake these delightful Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!