Go Back
Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Admin

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes bring the beloved winter beverage to dessert form, combining moist chocolate cupcakes with a rich cocoa flavor and a fluffy marshmallow-inspired topping. These cupcakes are everything you love about a steaming mug of hot cocoa—warm, comforting, and deeply chocolatey—now in portable, bakery-style form. They’re ideal for winter parties, holiday gatherings, or any time you're in the mood for something sweet and cozy. What makes these cupcakes so special is the nostalgic experience they deliver with every bite. From the fudgy base to the creamy whipped topping, each element is carefully crafted to echo the flavors of a classic hot chocolate. Finish them off with mini marshmallows, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a dusting of cocoa powder for that café-style touch
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cupcakes:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup hot water
  • ¼ cup melted semisweet chocolate or chocolate chips
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Mini marshmallows or marshmallow bits for garnish
  • Optional: Chocolate sauce or shaved chocolate for topping

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream. Stir in the melted chocolate and hot water until combined.
  2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until smooth but do not overmix. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling about ¾ full. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
  3. In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spoon or pipe the whipped topping onto each cooled cupcake.
  4. Garnish with mini marshmallows, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a sprinkle of shaved chocolate. Serve immediately or store chilled.

Notes

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cupcakes without frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
  • Make Ahead: Bake the cupcakes a day in advance and prepare the topping fresh before serving.