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Black Velvet Cupcakes

Black velvet cupcakes are a striking chocolate treat featuring a deep cocoa flavor intensified by a hint of coffee. The batter is mixed until smooth, then baked to create moist, tender cupcakes with a glossy, slightly domed top. Their dramatic dark color contrasts beautifully with a swirl of frosting, making them both impressive and delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Dessert
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder preferably Dutch-processed
  • 0.75 cup hot brewed coffee to dissolve cocoa
  • 1 cup buttermilk can substitute with milk and lemon juice
  • 1.25 cups granulated sugar regular or brown sugar for caramel notes
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour cake flour for softer texture optional
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Equipment

  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Muffin tin and paper liners
  • Toothpick or cake tester

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. Whisk together the cocoa powder and hot brewed coffee until smooth and glossy; set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined after each addition; the batter should be smooth and velvety.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the paper liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
  6. Bake the cupcakes for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be shiny and lightly domed.
  7. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Once cooled, frost the cupcakes with your favorite chocolate or cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch.