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Chocolate cupcakes with some topped with strawberry frosting and others topped with chocolate frosting.

Ultimate Chocolate Cupcakes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Calories: 138kcal
Author: Shinee
These ultimate chocolate cupcakes use staple ingredients to create the softest, richest cupcakes you’ll ever taste in 30 minutes or less!
Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (40 g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg at room temperature
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) sour cream
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) hot coffee

Equipment

  • 1 muffin pan
  • 1 medium bowl
  • 1 stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175° C). Line a muffin pan with 12 cupcake liners.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, whip the egg, sour cream, oil, and vanilla extract on medium speed until well combined, about 1 minute.
  • Add the dry ingredients and mix the batter until just combined, starting on low and gradually increasing the speed to medium-high, about 30 seconds.
  • Scrape the sides of the bowl, add hot coffee, and mix again until just combined.
  • Divide the batter into the prepared cupcake cups halfway full.
  • Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

Notes

Note 1: If needed, a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour can be substituted. 
Note 2: Be sure to use natural cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will affect the rise and flavor of the cupcakes.
Note 3: If you’re sensitive to caffeine, decaf can be used.
Storing Tips:
- Store the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two to three days.
- You can freeze chocolate cupcakes! Place the unfrosted cupcakes on a plate or quarter shet pan, and freeze for at least 2 hours. Transfer the frozen cupcakes to a container or bag, and freeze for up to three months. 

Nutrition

Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 138kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 166mg