Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Name: Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup hot chocolate mix; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup mini marshmallows; Chocolate shavings for topping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, comforting taste of these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, perfect for cozy evenings or special celebrations. Each cupcake is infused with the essence of classic hot chocolate, topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. This sweet treat will warm your heart and satisfy your dessert cravings like no other. Bake these easy and delicious cupcakes for a festive treat that will impress family and friends!

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-21T00:28:17.607Z

The Perfect Cupcake Experience

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are not just a dessert; they are an experience that captures the essence of cozy moments. Imagine biting into a soft, chocolatey cupcake that tastes like your favorite hot beverage. The fusion of flavors in these cupcakes makes them a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to winter holidays.

This recipe effortlessly combines rich chocolate flavor with the comforting nostalgia of hot chocolate, ensuring that each bite warms your soul. The marshmallow frosting adds a playful touch, contributing a light and airy texture that complements the decadent cupcake base, making it an indulgent and satisfying dessert.

A Treat for All Ages

These Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are a hit among both children and adults alike. Their familiar flavors spark joy and nostalgia, transporting us back to childhood memories of sipping hot cocoa on snowy days. Whether served at a festive gathering or a casual family dinner, they are sure to please a diverse group of taste buds.

The addition of fluffy marshmallows and chocolate shavings creates a whimsical topping that is visually appealing and enhances the overall flavor profile. Kids will love the fun textures, while adults will appreciate the rich, comforting taste, making these cupcakes a versatile choice for any celebratory occasion.

Baking Made Easy

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes is a breeze. Even if you are a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a perfect opportunity to develop your baking skills. The clear instructions guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious outcome that will impress your friends and family.

Moreover, you can easily customize the recipe. Consider adding a dash of peppermint extract for a festive flair or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor. This flexibility allows you to make these cupcakes your own, adapting them to suit your personal tastes or seasonal themes.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot chocolate mix
1/2 cup milk

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup mini marshmallows
Chocolate shavings for topping

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start.

Directions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, hot chocolate mix, and milk until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Fill Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake the cupcakes for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Prepare Frosting

While the cupcakes are cooling, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add heavy cream and vanilla, then mix until fluffy.

Frost and Decorate

Frost the cooled cupcakes with the marshmallow frosting and top with mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings.

Enjoy your delicious hot chocolate cupcakes!

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes

To ensure your Hot Chocolate Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, start by making sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth batter and a light texture. Also, avoid overmixing when combining the wet and dry ingredients; mix until just combined for the best results.

Another great tip is to use high-quality cocoa powder, as this significantly impacts the flavor of your cupcakes. Investing in premium chocolate ingredients can elevate your baking from good to exceptional.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After baking, if you have any leftovers, store your Hot Chocolate Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can freeze them for longer storage. Make sure to wrap each cupcake individually to maintain their freshness and flavor.

For serving, consider pairing your cupcakes with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate. This simple yet delightful accompaniment enhances the overall flavor experience while providing a comforting and luxurious treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and frost them just before serving.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.