Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Name: Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup hot cocoa mix; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup mini marshmallows; Cocoa powder for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate winter treat with these delightful Hot Chocolate Cupcakes! Moist chocolate cake infused with rich hot cocoa, topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Perfect for your cozy gatherings, these cupcakes capture the essence of a warm cup of hot chocolate in every bite. Ideal for holiday celebrations or a sweet weekend dessert, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-21T08:09:31.957Z

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are the perfect fusion of cake and the beloved winter drink. Each bite offers a burst of rich chocolate flavor combined with sweet, fluffy frosting, making them irresistible during the colder months.

Indulge in Comfort

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes offer a delightful twist on a classic winter beverage. These cupcakes perfectly encapsulate the essence of snowy days spent indoors, wrapped in blankets with a steaming mug of hot cocoa. Each bite brings you closer to the comfort and coziness associated with chilly weather. The combination of rich chocolate and marshmallow frosting provides not just flavor but also a delightfully nostalgic experience.

The moist chocolate cake base is infused with hot cocoa, elevating the flavor profile to something truly special. This unique blend invites warmth and joy to the palate, making every cupcake an indulgent treat. Whether for holiday gatherings or a comforting dessert at home, these cupcakes are the ideal choice to evoke feelings of warmth and happiness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Hot Chocolate Cupcakes are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. From festive holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers with friends, they are sure to impress. Serve them alongside a warm cup of cocoa for a double dose of comfort, or offer them at birthday parties for a playful, delicious surprise.

Their eye-catching appearance, topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and mini marshmallows, also makes them an Instagram-worthy treat. The delightful combination of flavors and textures will captivate your guests, sparking conversations over how delicious and delightful they are. No matter the occasion, these cupcakes are a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Success

To make the most of your Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, it's crucial to ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This allows for better incorporation and a smoother batter, ultimately leading to light and fluffy cupcakes. Be careful not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable to maintain a tender texture.

Also, consider experimenting with different toppings to personalize your cupcakes further. While mini marshmallows are a classic choice, crushed peppermint candies or drizzles of chocolate or caramel can add an exciting twist. These small tweaks can elevate your dessert from a cozy classic to a standout confection.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup hot cocoa mix

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mini marshmallows
Cocoa powder for garnish

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the hot cocoa mix.

Bake

Divide the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix in the cream and vanilla until fluffy.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, frost them with the marshmallow frosting and top with mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Enjoy your delicious Hot Chocolate Cupcakes!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up the recipe, consider substituting the vegetable oil with applesauce. This swap not only reduces calories but also adds a hint of natural sweetness to the cupcakes. For those who prefer a gluten-free option, all-purpose flour can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend—just ensure it's a 1:1 substitution to maintain the consistency of the batter.

Additionally, you can swap the dairy milk for plant-based alternatives like almond milk or oat milk. This alteration allows for a dairy-free version of these delicious cupcakes, making them accessible for guests with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.

Storage and Freezing

These Hot Chocolate Cupcakes can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to retain freshness. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them for up to three months. To freeze, place the cooled cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag.

When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired for a warmed treat, and then top with fresh frosting and a sprinkle of cocoa for that freshly baked taste.

Pairing Suggestions

These cupcakes pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, enhancing the overall experience. A classic pairing is, of course, a warm cup of hot chocolate, which complements the cocoa flavor beautifully. For a more adult twist, serve them alongside a rich coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the cupcakes, creating a balanced flavor profile.

If you're planning to serve these at a holiday gathering, consider accompanying them with spiced apple cider. The warm spices in the cider will harmonize wonderfully with the chocolatey flavors and marshmallow frosting, making for a memorable dessert pairing that's sure to please your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

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