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–+ servings

Espresso Cupcakes

Rich, bold, and buzzing with flavor, these espresso cupcakes are a coffee lover's dream in dessert form. Moist chocolate cake is infused with freshly brewed espresso, then topped with silky espresso buttercream for an unforgettable treat.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 315 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons brewed espresso cooled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, espresso, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners using an ice cream scoop.
  • Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
  • Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • While the cupcakes cool, prepare the espresso buttercream: Beat the softened butter on high until creamy.
  • Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Add the brewed espresso, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  • Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe onto the cooled cupcakes.

Nutrition

Calories: 315kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 2gFat: 17gSodium: 240mgFiber: 1gSugar: 29g
Keyword espresso cupcakes, coffee dessert, mocha treats, cupcake recipe
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