Imagine cutting into a delectable chocolate cupcake and discovering a hidden treasure of heart-shaped candies waiting to surprise you! These magical Surprise Inside Heart Cupcakes are not just a dessert, they're an experience that will transform your baking game and create unforgettable moments of joy. Perfect for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for a sweet, playful treat, these cupcakes are guaranteed to bring smiles, gasps of delight, and pure culinary magic to your table.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup heart-shaped candy or gummy candy
- 1 cup frosting of choice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine thoroughly and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fill each cupcake liner about 1/3 full with batter. Place 2-3 heart-shaped candies in the center of each cupcake.
- Carefully cover the candies with remaining batter, filling each liner about 3/4 full, ensuring the candies are completely hidden.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost the cupcakes with your chosen frosting, using a piping bag or offset spatula.
- For an extra surprise, decorate the top with additional heart-shaped candies or sprinkles.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth, even batter
- Be gentle when placing candies to avoid sinking to the bottom
- Don't overmix the batter - this keeps cupcakes light and fluffy
- Use a piping bag for precise and beautiful frosting application
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
- Experiment with different heart-shaped candies for unique surprises
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container to maintain freshness
- For extra decadence, try using flavored frostings like raspberry or chocolate
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 85mg
