Treat yourself and your guests to the delectable and dramatic flair of Black Velvet Cupcakes. Infused with the deep, rich flavors reminiscent of an Oreo, these cupcakes are enhanced with a luxurious black cream cheese frosting and a surprising burst of cherry filling. Whether it’s a sophisticated Halloween bash, a chic New Year’s Eve party, or a lavish gothic-themed gathering, these cupcakes are sure to be the showstopper on your dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Cupcake Batter:
- ½ cup black cocoa powder
- ½ cup boiling water
- ¼ cup neutral-flavored oil
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
- ½ cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup black cocoa powder
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (optional)
For Toppings and Filling:
- 6 oz black candy melts
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup canned cherry pie filling
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
- Dissolve black cocoa powder in boiling water and set aside to cool.
- Cream together oil, butter, sugar, and salt until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, vinegar, and buttermilk.
- Sift in flour, baking powder, and baking soda, and mix until just combined. Stir in the cooled cocoa mixture.
- Spoon the batter into lined cupcake pans and bake at 355°F (180°C) for 18-20 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.
Make the Frosting:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix in cream cheese, vanilla, and salt. Adjust the consistency with heavy whipping cream if needed.
Assemble the Cupcakes:
- Once cooled, cut a small hole in the center of each cupcake and spoon in cherry pie filling.
- Pipe the black cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Prepare a chocolate drip by heating cream and candy melts together, then whisk until smooth. Drizzle over the frosted cupcakes.
- Finish with a sprinkle of decorative sprinkles.
Serving and Storage:
- Serve cupcakes at room temperature for best flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese in the frosting, and enjoy within 3 days.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these cupcakes without the cherry filling? A1: Absolutely! The cupcakes are delicious on their own with the black cream cheese frosting.
Q2: What can I use if I can’t find black cocoa powder? A2: You can use regular cocoa powder with a touch of black food coloring to achieve a dark hue.
Q3: Is there a substitute for black candy melts in the drip? A3: You can use dark chocolate chips with a bit of black food coloring as an alternative.
Q4: Can I prepare these cupcakes in advance? A4: Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and store them unfrosted in an airtight container. Assemble and frost them on the day of your event to keep them fresh.
Chef’s Advice
When preparing Black Velvet Cupcakes, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the smoothest batter and frosting. For a professional look, use a piping bag with a star tip to frost the cupcakes. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also makes them irresistibly photogenic, perfect for any special occasion where you want to impress.
These Black Velvet Cupcakes are more than just a treat—they’re a statement piece that will elevate any gathering with their striking appearance and sumptuous taste.
A Taste of Decadence
Black Velvet Cupcakes are a luxurious twist on the classic red velvet, offering a deep, rich chocolate flavor that’s both intense and irresistible. The use of black cocoa powder not only imparts a bold color but also gives these cupcakes a unique Oreo-like taste that sets them apart from traditional chocolate cupcakes. This sophisticated choice of ingredient ensures every bite is a rich, velvety experience, perfectly balanced with the creamy texture of the frosting.
Surprising Cherry Filling
Each cupcake hides a delightful secret—a heart of cherry pie filling that adds a sweet and tangy surprise to the rich chocolate base. The cherry filling not only complements the depth of the cocoa but also adds moisture and a burst of color when you bite into the cupcake. This element of surprise makes the Black Velvet Cupcakes not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight, ensuring that each serving brings a smile.
Elegant Black Cream Cheese Frosting
The cupcakes are topped with a smooth and luxurious black cream cheese frosting, which not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a lush, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense cake. The frosting is flavored with vanilla and a hint of salt, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the chocolatey notes of the cupcakes. Optional heavy whipping cream can be added to achieve the perfect spreading consistency, making the frosting utterly delectable.
Perfect for Special Occasions
These cupcakes are not just desserts; they are showpieces that can transform any gathering into an event. Whether it’s a Halloween party, a New Year’s celebration, or a gothic-themed event, Black Velvet Cupcakes are sure to stand out with their dramatic appearance and exquisite taste. The addition of a chocolate drip and sprinkles lends an extra touch of elegance and festivity, making these cupcakes a central highlight of any dessert table.
Conclusion
Black Velvet Cupcakes embody a perfect blend of elegance, surprise, and indulgence. They offer a unique take on traditional flavors, with their rich black cocoa base and surprise cherry center, making them not only a delicious choice but a conversation starter at any event. Ideal for those who appreciate a dessert that’s as visually impressive as it is flavorful, these cupcakes promise to make any celebration memorable. Dive into the decadent world of Black Velvet Cupcakes and let every bite take you on an unforgettable culinary journey.