Name: Nutella Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 15.25 ounces chocolate cake mix; 3.9 ounces chocolate instant pudding mix; 3 large eggs; ½ cup oil; ½ cup whole milk; ¼ cup hot coffee; ¼ cup hazelnut liqueur (optional); ½ cup Nutella (to fill cupcakes); 1 cup salted butter (softened); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 6 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup Nutella (for frosting); 4 to 5 tablespoons heavy whipping cream; Chocolate sprinkles (for decoration)

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Have you ever wondered why Nutella is the superstar of desserts? If yes, you’re not alone! In fact, studies show that desserts with rich, chocolatey flavors like Nutella significantly boost people’s mood. That’s why our Nutella Cupcakes are not just a treat but a celebration of flavors that can brighten your day. These delightful cupcakes pack a perfect punch of chocolate and hazelnut goodness, making them irresistible. Stick with us as we dive into the scrumptious world of Nutella Cupcakes!

Ingredients Needed

To embark on your cupcake-making adventure, here’s what you’ll need:

15.25 ounces chocolate cake mix: The base of our cupcakes, providing a rich chocolate flavor.
3.9 ounces chocolate instant pudding mix: Ensures moistness and adds depth.
3 large eggs: Essential for binding ingredients and enhancing texture.
½ cup oil: Adds moisture; consider substituting with applesauce for a healthier option.
½ cup whole milk: Creaminess personified. Almond milk can be a great dairy-free alternative.
¼ cup hot coffee (or espresso): Enhances the chocolate flavor; you can skip this for a caffeine-free version.
¼ cup hazelnut liqueur (optional): For adult cupcakes; gives a lovely hazelnut aroma.
½ cup Nutella (to fill cupcakes): The star of the show, delivering luscious hazelnut-chocolate goodness.
1 cup salted butter (softened): A creamy base for our frosting.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and flavor.
6 cups powdered sugar: For that sweet, fluffy frosting texture.
1 cup Nutella (for frosting): More of our favorite spread for ultimate indulgence.
4 to 5 tablespoons heavy whipping cream: For a light and airy frosting.
Chocolate sprinkles (Jimmies): For that finishing touch!

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

That’s 20% faster than many traditional cupcake recipes, letting you get to the best part—eating!

How to Make Nutella Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cupcakes start baking at just the right temperature for even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This not only makes for easier cleanup but also adds a touch of fun and color!

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix and chocolate pudding mix. Stir them together for an even blend of dry ingredients.

Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, milk, hot coffee, and hazelnut liqueur (if using). This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cupcakes.

Step 5: Combine & Stir

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined—over-mixing can lead to dense cupcakes!

Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners

Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about halfway. Now, add a dollop of Nutella in the center of each cupcake; it will create a delicious surprise filling!

Step 7: Bake

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Allow your cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Whip Up the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the Nutella and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, then enough whipping cream to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 10: Frost & Decorate

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost each with your Nutella frosting and top with chocolate sprinkles.

Nutritional Information

Each Nutella cupcake (without frosting) roughly contains:

Calories: 210
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 3g

Note: These values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.

Healthier Alternatives For Nutella Cupcakes

Want to enjoy Nutella Cupcakes with a twist? Consider these swaps:

Use whole wheat flour for a fiber boost.
Replace sugar with coconut sugar to reduce the glycemic index.
Swap Nutella for a homemade hazelnut chocolate spread using minimal sugar.
Use avocado in frosting for a creamy texture with healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Nutella Cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert party experience. Pair them with a cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk! For a beautiful presentation, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top or sprinkle chopped hazelnuts for added crunch.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to tough cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting warm cupcakes can lead to melted frosting. Let them cool completely!
Not Preheating the Oven: A cold oven can affect the baking time and texture. Always preheat for best results.

Storing Tips For Nutella Cupcakes

To keep your Nutella Cupcakes fresh:

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Frosted Cupcakes: Store them in the fridge to maintain frosting freshness, consuming within a week.
Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cupcakes in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

Conclusion

Indulging in Nutella Cupcakes is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy and delight with each bite. Follow this guide to create your own batch of chocolatey goodness. Once you try this recipe, we would love to hear your thoughts! Share your baked creations and any modifications you’ve tried—let’s spread the love of cupcakes together!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of eggs in Nutella Cupcakes?

You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) or unsweetened applesauce as a great egg substitute.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to frost and serve.

How can I make the Nutella filling more pronounced?

For an extra Nutella kick, add more filling per cupcake or consider injecting it using a piping bag or frosting injector!

Can I use other flavors besides chocolate?

Of course! Feel free to swap the chocolate cake mix for vanilla or red velvet for a unique twist on flavor.

Now that you’re armed with all the information needed to make scrumptious Nutella Cupcakes, get baking and enjoy a slice of heaven!