Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes are rich, moist chocolate cakes topped with creamy, decadent chocolate buttercream.
I decided to make these Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes because I recently saw a bakery making them, and their deep chocolate color and texture caught my attention.
That moment inspired me to recreate the recipe at home. Having baked many chocolate cupcakes before, I felt confident in my skills to make these fudgy treats.
Now, I will guide you through each step clearly, sharing how to prepare and bake them successfully. My previous experience ensures the cupcakes turn out soft and full of intense chocolate flavor every time.
Why My Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it combines the right ingredients to create a moist and flavorful cupcake. The oil and buttermilk keep the texture soft, while the hot water helps dissolve the cocoa and coffee, enhancing the chocolate taste.
Using both baking soda and baking powder gives the cupcakes a good rise and light crumb. The frosting blends melted dark chocolate with butter and powdered sugar, resulting in a creamy, rich topping that complements the cake perfectly.
Every element works together to deliver a tender, fudgy cupcake with intense chocolate flavor in every bite.
How To Make Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
To help you bake perfect Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes, I’ll walk you through each step with simple directions and useful advice. I’ve included a list of kitchen tools that can simplify the process, but none are absolutely necessary.
Even if you don’t have all the equipment, you can still create rich, moist cupcakes using what’s available to you. Let’s get started and enjoy baking!
Recipe Details
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American / Classic Baking
Yield: About 12 standard cupcakes

Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 12-cup muffin pan
- Cupcake liners
- Spatula
- Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- ½ cup neutral oil (sunflower, canola, or similar)
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
2. In a big bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and instant coffee powder until evenly blended.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg, and then add the oil, buttermilk, vanilla, and hot water. The hot water helps unlock the rich flavors of the cocoa and coffee while smoothing out the batter.
4. Slowly combine the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Mix only until smooth to keep the cupcakes soft and tender.
5. Spoon the batter into the liners, filling each one about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center it should come out clean. Allow the cupcakes to rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat softened butter until light and creamy. Gradually add sifted cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with melted chocolate. Stir in heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
7. Once cooled, frost the cupcakes with the chocolate buttercream. Enjoy your delicious treats!
Notes:
Using Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives a richer chocolate flavor and a darker color. Instant coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
Ensure the melted chocolate in the frosting is not hot when mixing, or it could melt the butter. Adjust heavy cream in the frosting for your preferred consistency less for thicker frosting, more for spreadable.
Nutrition Value Of Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
Nutrition | Amounts |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Fat | 18g |
Carbohydrates | 38g |
Protein | 3g |
Sugar | 28g |
Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes is a must-try because it delivers rich, fudgy chocolate cupcakes that are moist and full of flavor.
The combination of cocoa, coffee, and melted chocolate creates a deep, intense taste that chocolate lovers will appreciate. The chocolate buttercream frosting adds the perfect creamy finish without being too sweet.
Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes easy to follow, uses simple ingredients, and produces consistent results, making it great for both beginners and experienced bakers.
These Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes make any occasion special and satisfy any chocolate craving with every bite.
How To Decorate Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
Decorating Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes can be simple or creative, depending on your mood and occasion. Start by letting the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Use a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip to swirl the chocolate buttercream evenly on top. For extra flair, sprinkle with chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or cocoa powder dusted lightly.
Fresh berries or edible gold flakes add an elegant touch. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the frosting for a glossy finish. Decorating this way makes your cupcakes look as good as they taste!
What To Serve Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes With
Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes go wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that complement their rich, chocolaty flavor.
A cold glass of milk or creamy vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness perfectly. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing, slightly tart contrast.
For a grown-up twist, serve them alongside a cup of strong coffee or espresso to enhance the chocolate notes. Whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the experience.
Whether for a party or a cozy night in, these pairings make each bite even more enjoyable.
Variations Of Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
● Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of creamy peanut butter into the batter or swirl it on top of the frosting for a rich, nutty contrast to the chocolate.
● Mint Chocolate: Mix in a few drops of peppermint extract into the batter or frosting. Top with crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing flavor.
● Salted Caramel: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty combo.
● Mocha Delight: Add extra instant coffee powder to the batter and frosting for a strong mocha flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
● Raspberry Chocolate: Fold fresh or frozen raspberries into the batter or use raspberry jam between the cupcake and frosting for a fruity burst with every bite.
Tips And Tricks
● Always weigh or carefully level your ingredients especially flour and cocoa powder to keep the texture just right and avoid dense cupcakes.
● Check that your baking soda and baking powder are fresh; old leavening agents can cause flat or heavy cupcakes.
● When mixing, combine the wet and dry ingredients gently and only until just incorporated. Over mixing develops gluten and makes cupcakes chewy instead of soft.
● Let butter soften naturally at room temperature before making frosting. Soft butter whips better, giving you a light and fluffy texture.
● Using a piping bag with a star tip not only makes the frosting look professional but helps control the amount on each cupcake.
● Position your cupcake tray in the center of the oven to ensure even heat distribution, which helps the cupcakes rise evenly without burning on the edges.
Personal Touch Or Story.
Baking these Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes has always been a special part of my routine. Years ago, I stumbled upon a tiny bakery where these rich, fudgy cupcakes stole my heart.
I was inspired to recreate that exact taste and texture in my own kitchen. Over time, I experimented, learned, and perfected the recipe, making it my go-to whenever I wanted to treat friends or family.
There’s something comforting about the smell of chocolate filling the house and seeing the smiles when people take that first bite. Baking these Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes feels like sharing a little piece of joy every time.
How To Store Leftovers
To store leftover Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes, first make sure they are completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out.
Store the container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed cocoa?
Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder, but Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother, less acidic flavor and gives the cupcakes a richer color. Using regular cocoa might result in a slightly tangier taste and lighter color, but the cupcakes will still turn out tasty.
Is it okay to replace the oil with butter?
Yes, melted butter can be used instead of oil, but oil generally makes the cupcakes more moist and tender. Butter adds a richer flavor but can make the texture slightly denser. If you substitute, use the same amount of melted butter for best results.
How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?
Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the cupcakes are fully baked. Start checking a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the cupcakes right after mixing for optimal rise and texture. However, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours. Before baking, stir the batter gently to recombine ingredients and note that baking time might increase slightly when baking chilled batter.
How should I store leftover frosted cupcakes?
Keep frosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to one week. Let refrigerated cupcakes come to room temperature before serving to soften the frosting and enhance flavor.
Conclusion
My easy and delicious Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes recipe is something I enjoy making again and again. The process is straightforward, and the results are always rich and satisfying.
I hope this Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes guide helps you understand how simple it is to bake these tasty treats at home. Once you try them, I’m sure you’ll love the deep chocolate flavor and creamy frosting as much as I do.
Now it’s your turn to make and enjoy these Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes, creating sweet moments for yourself and others.
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Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 12-cup muffin pan
- Cupcake liners
- Spatula
- Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- ½ cup neutral oil sunflower, canola, or similar
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 4 ounces dark chocolate melted and slightly cooled
- 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream adjust for consistency
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
- In a big bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and instant coffee powder until evenly blended.
- In another bowl, beat the egg, and then add the oil, buttermilk, vanilla, and hot water. The hot water helps unlock the rich flavors of the cocoa and coffee while smoothing out the batter.
- Slowly combine the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Mix only until smooth to keep the cupcakes soft and tender.
- Spoon the batter into the liners, filling each one about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center it should come out clean. Allow the cupcakes to rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat softened butter until light and creamy. Gradually add sifted cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with melted chocolate. Stir in heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Once cooled, frost the cupcakes with the chocolate buttercream. Enjoy your delicious treats!
Notes
Nutrition Value Of Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
Nutrition | Amounts |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Fat | 18g |
Carbohydrates | 38g |
Protein | 3g |
Sugar | 28g |