Name: Indulgent Black Forest Cupcakes Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 85 g bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped; 28 g unsweetened cocoa powder; 180 ml boiling water; 95 g all-purpose flour; 150 g granulated sugar; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 90 ml canola oil; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons white vinegar; 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 can (approx. 540 g) cherry pie filling; 227 g unsalted butter, softened; 500–625 g powdered sugar; 60 ml heavy cream; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 pinch salt; 12 fresh cherries, for garnish; 85 g mini chocolate chips

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and a light, fluffy topping, look no further than these delightful Black Forest Cupcakes. With their irresistible flavors and stunning presentation, these cupcakes are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast. The elegance of these cupcakes—crafted with the finest bittersweet chocolate and topped with a luscious vanilla buttercream—makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to lavish celebrations.

The true star of this recipe is the cherry pie filling nestled in the heart of each cupcake, providing a sweet and tart contrast to the decadent chocolate. The combination of textures—from the moist chocolate cupcake to the creamy frosting and the juicy cherry filling—will leave you wanting more. Plus, since these cupcakes are straightforward to make, you can whip them up in no time, impressing your guests without much hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Cupcakes Delight

Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate base combined with sweet cherry filling creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Beautiful Presentation: Topped with a swirl of vanilla buttercream and a fresh cherry, these cupcakes are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any festive occasion, they bring joy to any gathering.
Easily Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of fillings or toppings to suit your preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin baking your Black Forest Cupcakes, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Firstly, ensure you have a clean and organized workspace. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready. You will need a 12-cup muffin pan lined with paper liners to hold your cupcakes. Gather mixing bowls, a whisk, and a stand mixer for the frosting. A good quality measuring scale is essential for accurate ingredient measurement, especially when it comes to baking. Don’t forget to keep your apple corer or piping tip handy for filling your cupcakes with the cherry pie goodness!

Ingredients

85 g bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
28 g unsweetened cocoa powder
180 ml boiling water
95 g all-purpose flour
150 g granulated sugar
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon baking soda
90 ml canola oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons white vinegar
1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 can (approx. 540 g) cherry pie filling
227 g unsalted butter, softened
500–625 g powdered sugar
60 ml heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
12 fresh cherries, for garnish
85 g mini chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate with the unsweetened cocoa powder. Pour in the boiling water and whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth. This step is essential as it creates a rich, deep flavor that forms the base of your cupcakes. After mixing, chill this chocolate mixture in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to allow it to cool down.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

While your chocolate mixture is chilling, take a large mixing bowl and whisk together the canola oil, eggs, white vinegar, and 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Make sure these ingredients are well incorporated, as this helps to create a moist and tender cupcake. Once your chocolate mixture has cooled, gradually pour it into the wet mixture, mixing until everything is smooth and uniform.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, salt, and baking soda. Add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Then, carefully fold in the all-purpose flour. Be cautious not to overmix; you want to maintain the lightness of the batter, which will contribute to the texture of your cupcakes.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

Distribute the batter evenly among the lined muffin cups, filling each liner about three-quarters full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–22 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake—if it comes out clean, they’re ready! Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Prepare the Cherry Filling

Once the cupcakes are cool, take an apple corer or piping tip and carefully create a cavity in the center of each cupcake. This is where the cherry pie filling will go. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of cherry pie filling into each hollowed cupcake, ensuring it’s generously filled to enhance the flavor in each bite.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream Frosting

To prepare the vanilla buttercream, use a stand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter until it’s light and fluffy. Add in the remaining 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with splashes of heavy cream, until you achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.

Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes

Once your buttercream is ready, you can pipe or spread it generously onto each filled cupcake. The frosting should be thick and beautiful, creating a good contrast against the dark chocolate. Lastly, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top and garnish with a fresh cherry for a spectacular finishing touch.

Variations

Protein: Add a hint of espresso powder to the chocolate batter for a mocha twist.
Vegetables: Incorporate a bit of beetroot puree for extra moisture and a subtle earthiness without altering the taste.
Spices: Enhance flavors with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter for a unique spin.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature before beating; this helps in achieving fluffy frosting.
Do not overfill your cupcake liners; filling each one about 3/4 full gives a perfect rise.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert experience.
Serve with whipped cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Bring cupcakes to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 52 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 300 per cupcake
Protein: 4 g
Sodium: 200 mg

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just add the cherry filling and frosting right before serving for the best freshness.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, thawed frozen cherries can work, but you might want to add some sugar and cornstarch to create a filling similar to cherry pie filling.

How do I ensure my cupcakes are moist?

Don’t overmix the batter and ensure you’re not overbaking them, as both can lead to dry cupcakes. Also, the addition of cherry filling contributes to moisture.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. This may affect texture, so make sure to follow package recommendations for best results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Black Forest Cupcakes Delight are a must-try for anyone who loves the rich combination of chocolate and cherries—each bite is a piece of heaven! They not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide a delightful culinary experience. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or any variations you try in the comments below. We encourage you to explore this recipe and make it your own, whether that’s through unique toppings or different fillings. Happy baking!