Description
These small batch chocolate cupcakes are rich, moist, and perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without making a full dozen. Ideal for small households or quick desserts, they come together in about 30 minutes using pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 cup hot water
- For the frosting:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with 4 to 6 liners.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in the hot water carefully until the batter is smooth and thin.
- Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then milk and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes as desired.
Notes
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra gooeyness.
- Use coffee instead of water for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Try peanut butter frosting for a sweet and salty combo.
- Top with sprinkles or shaved chocolate for decoration.
- Use almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
