Black Velvet Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and a little spooky, these Black Velvet Cupcakes are just the ticket! They’re rich, moist, and have a stunning dark color that will impress everyone at your next gathering. Perfect for Halloween parties or any festive occasion, these treats are sure to become a favorite in your home. The best part? No food dye is needed; the rich black cocoa powder gives them their signature hue naturally!

Baking these cupcakes is not only fun but also a delightful way to spend time with loved ones. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family get-together or surprising your friends with a sweet treat, these cupcakes will surely bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: These cupcakes come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute baking or busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavor and fun presentation—perfect for sharing!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them in advance and frost right before serving to save time on the day of your event.
• Deliciously unique: The combination of black cocoa powder and coffee creates an unforgettable flavor that sets these cupcakes apart from the rest.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These cupcakes use simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You probably have many of them in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cupcakes

• 3/4 cup + 3 tablespoons cake flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed, room temperature)
• 1/2 cup hot brewed coffee
• 1/2 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup black cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup black cocoa powder (50 g)
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
• Pinch fine sea salt

For Decoration

• Colored sprinkles for the sides
• Eyeball candies for the tops

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add a twist: Experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts into the batter for added texture.
• Switch up the frosting: Try a cream cheese frosting instead of black cocoa buttercream for a tangy flavor.
• Make mini cupcakes: Adjust baking time and create adorable mini versions of these spooky delights!

How to Make Black Velvet Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by lining a 12-cup cupcake pan with liners and preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing in the butter on low speed until it resembles coarse sand is key—it helps create that tender crumb we all love in cupcakes!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together hot coffee with both cocoa powders. By using hot coffee, you enhance the flavors of the cocoa! Then add in sour cream, milk, egg, oil, and vanilla. This mixture adds moisture and richness to our batter.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour half of the wet ingredients into your dry mix on low speed until just incorporated. Scrape down the sides of your bowl to ensure everything is combined smoothly before adding in the rest. This step ensures no lumps remain!

Step 5: Fill Your Cupcake Liners

Scoop your batter into each lined cupcake liner until they’re about 3/4 full. This allows enough room for them to rise without overflowing while baking.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Pop your filled cupcake pan into the oven and bake for 18-25 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs—this means they’re perfectly baked!

Step 7: Prepare Your Frosting

While those cupcakes cool on a wire rack, it’s time to make our frosting! Cream together room temperature butter until smooth and airy. Gradually add powdered sugar until well mixed before incorporating black cocoa powder, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt.

Step 8: Decorate & Enjoy!

Fit a piping bag with a large round tip filled with frosting. Pipe swirls onto each cooled cupcake then roll their sides in colorful sprinkles for fun! Top each one with an eyeball candy for an extra spooky touch. Now they’re ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Black Velvet Cupcakes

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these helpful tips, you’ll ensure your black velvet cupcakes turn out perfectly every time!

• Measure Accurately: Proper measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale if possible, or spoon and level the flour to avoid dense cupcakes.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter, sour cream, milk, and egg to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to a lighter texture in your cupcakes.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes instead of the tender treat you want.
• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different! Start checking your cupcakes at the 18-minute mark using a toothpick; they’re done when it comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures that each bite is deliciously decadent.

How to Serve Black Velvet Cupcakes

Serving black velvet cupcakes can be just as fun as making them! Present these spooky treats in style to impress your guests during Halloween gatherings or any festive occasion.

Garnishes

• Colored Sprinkles: A sprinkle of colorful Halloween-themed sprinkles adds excitement and visual appeal to your cupcakes—perfect for festive occasions!
• Chocolate Shavings: For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding chocolate shavings on top of the frosting. They complement the rich cocoa flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: A warm pumpkin spice latte pairs wonderfully with these rich cupcakes, creating a cozy fall vibe that’s hard to resist!
• Chilled Apple Cider: The crispness of chilled apple cider balances the sweetness of the cupcakes while enhancing their seasonal charm.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor—a classic combo that never disappoints!
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a refreshing palate cleanser after indulging in these rich treats. Opt for seasonal fruits like apples and pears for added autumnal flair.

Enjoy crafting these whimsical black velvet cupcakes and sharing them with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Black Velvet Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat anytime! You can bake them in advance, store them properly, and even freeze for future gatherings or spontaneous cravings.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
• If you prefer them chilled, ensure they are well covered to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• To warm up a cupcake, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds.
• If you prefer your frosting intact, consider using the oven: wrap the cupcake in aluminum foil and heat at 350F (175C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Black Velvet Cupcakes that you might find helpful!

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of black cocoa powder for Black Velvet Cupcakes?

While you can substitute regular cocoa powder, the unique dark color and flavor profile of black cocoa is what makes these cupcakes special. For the best results, it’s recommended to stick with black cocoa powder.

How should I store my Black Velvet Cupcakes?

Store your Black Velvet Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for longer freshness. Be sure to keep them covered to maintain moisture!

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the black cocoa buttercream frosting ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Before using, let it sit at room temperature to soften or re-whip it briefly.

Final Thoughts

These Black Velvet Cupcakes are not just delicious; they bring a touch of whimsical fun to any occasion! I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do. Each bite is a reminder that baking can be both simple and rewarding. Dive into this recipe and create your own spooky-season magic—happy baking!