Short Description
These double chocolate orange cupcakes are rich, moist, and packed with a delightful citrus twist. Perfect for any chocolate lover who enjoys a hint of bright, zesty flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deep, rich chocolate flavor enhanced by a hint of orange
- Moist and fluffy texture
- Perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Great for parties, celebrations, or indulgent treats
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Fresh orange zest
- Fresh orange juice
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Heavy cream
- Powdered sugar (for frosting)
- Butter (for frosting)
- Dark chocolate (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix sugar, eggs, milk, orange zest, orange juice, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and cocoa powder. Mix until smooth.
- Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
- Garnish with orange zest and dark chocolate shavings if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 cupcakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and dairy-free butter.
- Extra Orange Flavor: Add orange extract to the frosting.
- White Chocolate Version: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped almonds or hazelnuts for crunch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a slightly warm treat.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting and serving.
FAQs
Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice?
Yes, but use a small amount, as it’s more concentrated.
How do I keep my cupcakes moist?
Avoid overbaking and ensure you use the correct amount of liquid ingredients.
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! Bake them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.
What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate enhances the orange flavor best.
Can I make this into a cake instead?
Yes! Bake in an 8-inch round cake pan for 25-30 minutes.
Do I need to refrigerate these cupcakes?
Only if they are frosted with perishable ingredients like heavy cream-based frosting.
How do I make a lighter frosting?
Use whipped cream instead of buttercream for a lighter topping.
Can I add alcohol for an adult version?
Yes, a splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur enhances the flavor.
Can I use dark cocoa powder?
Yes! It will result in a richer, slightly more intense chocolate flavor.
How can I decorate these cupcakes?
Top with chocolate curls, candied orange slices, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Conclusion
Double chocolate orange cupcakes are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and bright citrus flavors. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, these cupcakes will impress and satisfy any sweet tooth. Try different variations to make them your own!
PrintDouble Chocolate Orange Cupcakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Double Chocolate Orange Cupcakes are rich, moist, and bursting with citrusy goodness. Made with cocoa, dark chocolate, and fresh orange zest, they’re topped with a luscious chocolate-orange frosting for the ultimate decadent treat. Perfect for chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1/2 tsp vinegar)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Orange Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Orange zest
- Small orange slices or candied orange peel
Notes
- For extra richness, use dark chocolate cocoa powder.
- Want a gooey center? Add a piece of chocolate inside before baking!
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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