Get ready to revolutionize your baking game with the most decadent, moist, and irresistibly rich cupcakes you've ever tasted! What makes these Devil's Food Cupcakes truly extraordinary isn't just their intense chocolate flavor, but a secret ingredient that will have everyone begging for your recipe. Imagine biting into a cupcake so incredibly soft and luxurious that it practically melts in your mouth, leaving you wondering what culinary magic could possibly create such perfection.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1 secret ingredient (e.g., mayonnaise)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures no lumps and evenly distributes the dry ingredients.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add the secret ingredient (mayonnaise) to the wet ingredients and mix thoroughly. The mayonnaise will add moisture and richness to the cupcakes.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Slowly add hot water to the batter, stirring until it creates a smooth, thin consistency. The hot water helps activate the cocoa and creates a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Once cooled, frost with your favorite chocolate buttercream or ganache and garnish as desired.
Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and consistent texture.
- The secret ingredient (mayonnaise) adds incredible moisture, so don't be afraid to embrace this unexpected twist!
- Sifting dry ingredients is crucial for preventing lumps and creating a smooth batter.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter - mix just until ingredients are combined to keep cupcakes tender.
- Use a light hand when filling cupcake liners - 2/3 full is the perfect amount to allow for rising.
- Check cupcakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent overcooking.
- Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure a perfect finish.
- For an extra indulgent touch, consider adding a chocolate ganache or rich buttercream frosting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg