Name: Delicious Hot Cocoa Cupcakes with Marshmallow Filling Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup boiling water; 36 mini marshmallows; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Indulging in the blissful world of Hot Cocoa Cupcakes is like wrapping yourself in a warm, velvety blanket on a chilly day. These treats not only bring out the child in all of us, but they also boast rich, cocoa flavors and fluffy marshmallow surprises that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Picture this: cupcakes that taste like a cozy mug of hot chocolate, perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering, holiday party, or simply a sweet pick-me-up after a long day.

Now, imagine taking a bite and revealing an ooey-gooey center filled with mini marshmallows just waiting to melt in your mouth. The combination of creamy chocolate ganache frosting finishes these Hot Cocoa Cupcakes with a flourish, creating a dessert that transforms ordinary moments into something magical. Get ready to indulge your senses and celebrate the joy of baking with these delightful morsels.

Why You'll Love This Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

This incredible Hot Cocoa Cupcakes transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hot Cocoa Cupcakes:

1 cup all-purpose flour – Classic baking flour for structure and lightness in texture.

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Use high-quality cocoa for a deep chocolate flavor.

1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps the cupcakes rise perfectly, creating a light and airy texture.

1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Adds an extra lift and gives cupcakes a delightful texture.

1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the cocoa beautifully.

1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps create moist cupcakes.

2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together while adding richness.

1/2 cup milk – Provides moisture to the batter for a tender crumb.

1/3 cup vegetable oil – Keeps cupcakes moist and tender; can be replaced with melted butter for extra flavor.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.

1/2 cup boiling water – Brings the batter together magic, ensuring a super moist cupcake.

36 mini marshmallows – The sweet, gooey surprise hidden in each cupcake center.

1 cup heavy cream – Essential for creating a luxuriously smooth chocolate ganache frosting.

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – The star of the show for the ganache frosting, bringing a rich chocolate hit.

How to Make Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Hot Cocoa Cupcakes:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with 12 liners. This ensures your cupcakes have a cozy home for their baking adventure.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar until evenly blended. The mixture should look like a dark chocolate dream.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This is the moment you’ll smell the delicious aroma of vanilla wafting through the air, and everything feels right with the world.

Step 4: Bring it Together
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture while mixing gently. As you combine, slowly stir in the boiling water; it’ll turn the batter into a silky smooth concoction that’s almost too good to resist.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes
Distribute the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the heavenly scent of chocolate goodness.

Step 6: Prepare the Marshmallow Filling
Once the cupcakes cool for about 5 minutes in the pan, transfer them to a wire rack. With a small knife or cupcake corer, remove the centers of each cupcake. Insert three mini marshmallows into each cavity, then gently replace the tops.

Step 7: Create the Ganache Frosting
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until simmering. Pour it over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth, and then chill the ganache in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Frost the Cupcakes
After the ganache has chilled, whip it until it turns fluffy and light. Frost the top of each cupcake generously with this luxurious chocolate ganache. If you’re feeling super swoon-worthy, sprinkle extra mini marshmallows or crushed peppermint on top for that festive touch.

Each bite of these Hot Cocoa Cupcakes promises to be a delightful experience, full of rich chocolate flavor accentuated by that delightful marshmallow center. Make sure to take pictures because trust me, you’ll want to show off these beauties. Pause, enjoy, and maybe share, too—though I understand if you want to keep them all to yourself. What better way to celebrate any occasion than with the magic of Hot Cocoa Cupcakes?

You Must Know About Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

This showstopping Hot Cocoa Cupcakes delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Hot Cocoa Cupcakes Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your cupcake liners. While the oven heats, combine your dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls. Gradually mix them together and add boiling water last; this will ensure your batter is perfectly smooth and rich.

Add Your Touch to Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Feel free to swap out egg replacements, try different milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, or add a splash of peppermint extract for a wintery twist. You can also mix in some chocolate chips for extra gooeyness or generously frost with whipped cream instead of ganache for a lighter touch.

Storing & Reheating Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Store your Hot Cocoa Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to reheat them, gently warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to retain their softness and freshness.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

This professional-quality Hot Cocoa Cupcakes relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Creating these cupcakes brings to mind a delightful afternoon spent baking with my niece, who dubbed me the “Cupcake Guru” after tasting them. Her wide eyes and chocolate-covered grin made it clear that these Hot Cocoa Cupcakes were a family favorite instantaneously!

FAQs About Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

What are Hot Cocoa Cupcakes?

Hot Cocoa Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate cupcake. Infused with rich cocoa powder and featuring a gooey marshmallow center, these treats mimic the flavors of your favorite hot cocoa. Topped with a fluffy whipped ganache, they are perfect for cold-weather gatherings or cozy nights at home. The combination of flavors and textures create a festive dessert that’s sure to impress.

How do I store Hot Cocoa Cupcakes?

To keep your Hot Cocoa Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their softness and moisture. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them; however, be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving. For a quick warm-up, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

Can I make Hot Cocoa Cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can enjoy Hot Cocoa Cupcakes in a gluten-free version by using a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, as this will help replicate the texture of traditional cupcakes. The remaining ingredients remain the same, so you can still savor that chocolatey flavor and marshmallow goodness without gluten.

What occasions are best for Hot Cocoa Cupcakes?

Hot Cocoa Cupcakes are versatile and perfect for various occasions! You can serve them at holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or cozy winter evenings. Their delightful presentation and comforting flavors make them a hit at family gatherings or as a sweet treat after a day of sledding. Additionally, they can be a fun weekend baking project, bringing warmth and joy to any chilly day.

Conclusion for Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Hot Cocoa Cupcakes are a delightful dessert that brings warmth and joy to cold days. With rich chocolate flavor, gooey marshmallow centers, and fluffy whipped ganache, these cupcakes are sure to be a favorite among family and friends. Their adaptability makes them perfect for various occasions, from cozy family nights to festive gatherings. Celebrate the season with Hot Cocoa Cupcakes, a treat that combines comfort and indulgence in each delicious bite!