Description

Hot Cocoa Cupcakes are a rich, cozy dessert that turns the flavor of classic hot chocolate into a fun and festive treat. With moist chocolate cupcakes, fluffy chocolate frosting, and a marshmallow on top, they are perfect for holiday dessert tables, winter parties, easy dessert ideas, and anytime you want a simple chocolate recipe that feels extra special. This easy recipe works well for dessert lovers looking for food ideas that are comforting, crowd-pleasing, and great for celebrations.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup hot coffee or hot water

1/2 cup unsalted butter

2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

3 tablespoons heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

12 mini marshmallows

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

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

3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined.

5. Slowly stir in the hot coffee or hot water until the batter is smooth and thin.

6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

7. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

8. Cool the cupcakes in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

9. Beat the butter for the frosting until creamy.

10. Add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder gradually, then mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until fluffy.

11. Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.

12. Top each cupcake with a mini marshmallow and serve.

Notes

Use hot coffee instead of water for a deeper chocolate flavor without making the cupcakes taste like coffee.

Make sure the cupcakes are completely cool before frosting so the topping stays neat and fluffy.

For a festive finish, add chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder right before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cupcake
Calories: 365
Sugar: 34g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 48mg

Keywords: hot cocoa cupcakes, chocolate cupcakes, holiday dessert, easy dessert recipe, winter dessert, chocolate frosting, marshmallow cupcakes, food ideas, easy recipe