Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Name: Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup marshmallow fluff; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: mini marshmallows for topping

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delightful Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, perfect for cozy gatherings or as a special treat on chilly days. Each chocolatey bite is topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting, mimicking the classic hot chocolate experience. These cupcakes are the ultimate blend of rich chocolate, warmth, and comfort—sure to brighten any dessert table!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-21T01:15:41.153Z

These delicious Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are not just a dessert; they are a warm, inviting experience that brings the joy of winter into every bite.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are not just for the holiday season; they are versatile enough to brighten any occasion throughout the year. Whether it’s a birthday party, a cozy family gathering, or a simple afternoon treat, these cupcakes provide a delightful twist on the classic beverage we enjoy on cold days. Their rich flavor and appealing aesthetics make them a hit with all ages, ensuring that everyone will leave your event with a smile.

Moreover, these cupcakes can be customized to suit your specific celebration. Add festive sprinkles for a birthday, or use themed cupcake liners to match the occasion’s color scheme. No matter how you choose to present them, they will surely elevate your dessert table, adding warmth and joy to any gathering.

A Chocolate Lover's Dream

For those who adore chocolate, these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are a dream come true. With a rich chocolate base, each cupcake delivers a comforting experience that harks back to beloved childhood memories of sipping on hot cocoa during snowy days. They not only satisfy chocolate cravings but also offer the unique experience of having that hot cocoa flavor baked right into the cupcake.

The combination of cocoa powder and melted butter creates a moist and tender crumb, while the marshmallow frosting adds an airy sweetness that perfectly complements the cupcake’s richness. Each bite transports you to a cozy winter wonderland, making these cupcakes a go-to recipe for any chocoholic.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Hot Chocolate Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, measure your ingredients carefully. Baking is a science, and even slight discrepancies can affect the texture and flavor of your cupcakes. Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate results, especially for the flour and powdered sugar, which can easily be compressed if packed too tightly in a measuring cup.

Additionally, allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them. This step is crucial; frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt off, leaving you with a mess instead of a beautifully decorated treat. Once they are cool, be creative with your frosting technique—spreading it generously will enhance both the look and taste.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

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

For the Marshmallow Frosting

1 cup marshmallow fluff
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: mini marshmallows for topping

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting your baking adventure!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Fill Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together marshmallow fluff, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, frost them generously with the marshmallow frosting and top with mini marshmallows if desired.

Let the frosting set for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Suggestions

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. To maintain their moisture and texture, place a piece of bread in the container with the cupcakes. The bread will help absorb excess moisture and keep the cupcakes freshly baked.

For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost as desired.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to mix things up, try adding different flavors to your cupcake batter. A dash of peppermint extract can give your Hot Chocolate Cupcakes a festive twist, perfect for holiday gatherings. Alternatively, incorporating a pinch of cinnamon can add warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For the frosting, consider using chocolate ganache instead of marshmallow fluff for a richer taste. You could also experiment with flavored dusts or cocoa powder sprinkles for a visually striking finish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to personalize these cupcakes to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes as a stand-alone treat or pair them with a hot drink to create a full experience. A warm cup of chocolate milk or evening coffee can perfectly complement the flavors of the cupcakes, enhancing the cozy feel.

For an elegant touch, garnish each cupcake with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of cocoa powder. Consider serving them alongside whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.