One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delightful dessert that doesn’t require a lot of fuss, then these One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes are calling your name! With just one bowl and a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up these moist, chocolatey treats in no time. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet craving, these cupcakes are sure to please everyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes are the epitome of convenience and flavor. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand:

• Quick and Easy: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy baking without the hassle.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips creates a decadent chocolate experience.
• Perfectly Moist: The addition of sour cream and hot liquid ensures that these cupcakes remain moist and tender.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with different mix-ins or frostings to suit your taste.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create these delightful One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup VERY hot coffee or hot water: This helps to bloom the cocoa powder and intensify the chocolate flavor.
• 1 stick unsalted butter: Brought to room temperature and cut into small cubes for easy mixing.
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Add a rich chocolatey bite to each cupcake.
• 2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk: At room temperature for a smoother batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: For structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides additional leavening.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star ingredient for that rich chocolate flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream: Ensures moisture and a tender crumb.
• 2 tablespoons coconut or canola oil: Adds richness and moisture.

For the frosting:

• 1 stick unsalted butter: Softened for easy blending.
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetness and structure for the frosting.
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: To maintain the chocolate theme.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds creaminess and enhances the flavor.
• 3 tablespoons half and half: Provides the perfect consistency for spreading.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the frosting.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla: A touch of flavor that brings everything together.

Gear Checklist

To make these One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine all the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of all ingredients.
• Whisk or spatula: For mixing the batter smoothly.
• Cupcake liners: To line your cupcake pan for easy serving.
• Cupcake pan: To bake the cupcakes in.
• Cooling rack: For cooling the cupcakes after baking.
• Electric mixer (optional): For a quicker mixing process, but not necessary.

One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes: How It’s Done

Now, let’s get to the exciting part—baking these One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In your mixing bowl, combine the 1 stick of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Pour the 1/2 cup of VERY hot coffee or hot water over the mixture and stir until the chocolate and butter are melted and smooth.

Step 3: Mix in the Eggs and Sugar

Add the 2 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, and 1 cup of granulated sugar to the melted chocolate mixture. Whisk until well combined. Then add in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla and mix again.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Oil

Fold in the 1/2 cup of full-fat sour cream and 2 tablespoons of coconut or canola oil until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the 1 stick of softened unsalted butter and 3 cups of confectioners’ sugar until creamy. Gradually add in the 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, 3 tablespoons of half and half, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla. Mix until smooth and fluffy.

Step 10: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each cupcake with the chocolate frosting. Feel free to top with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for an extra touch!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or have dietary preferences, here are some swaps you can consider:

• Butter: You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a healthier option.
• Coconut or Canola Oil: You may substitute with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
• Granulated Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower glycemic option.
• Half and Half: Use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free frosting.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes is straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; this can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure eggs and sour cream are at room temperature to create a smooth batter.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Make sure to measure ingredients accurately for the best results.

Make-Ahead & Storage

These One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment:

• Storage: Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Frosting: Leftover frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Re-whip before using.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different type of chocolate for these cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate or even milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter cupcake. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.

Why do I need the hot coffee or water?

The hot liquid helps to dissolve the cocoa powder and enhances the flavor, resulting in richer chocolate cupcakes.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free option.

How can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?

To make them dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream or yogurt.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes, you might also love:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Healthy Chocolate Muffins
• Vegan Chocolate Cake
• Red Velvet Cupcakes

Next Steps

Now that you have this fantastic recipe for One-Bowl Chocolate Cupcakes, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, these cupcakes are sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Remember, the best part about these cupcakes is that they come together so easily, making them perfect for any baking level. Happy baking!