Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes are the perfect treat for all coffee and chocolate lovers out there. These indulgent cupcakes combine the rich flavors of cocoa and coffee, creating a delightful and irresistible dessert. The addition of a luscious chocolate Swiss meringue frosting and a drizzle of chocolate sauce takes these cupcakes to a whole new level of decadence. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a craving for a delicious sweet treat, these cupcakes are sure to satisfy.

The combination of chocolate and coffee has been cherished for centuries, and the mocha flavor has become a beloved classic in the world of desserts. The term “mocha” originally referred to a type of coffee bean grown in Yemen, but it eventually came to represent the delightful blend of coffee and chocolate flavors.

The origin of the mocha cupcake is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by the popularity of mocha beverages, such as mocha lattes and mocha frappuccinos. Bakers and pastry chefs began experimenting with incorporating coffee and cocoa into cupcakes, resulting in the creation of the delectable chocolate mocha cupcakes we know today.

INGREDIENTS

Cupcake:

• 1 cup (4.5 ounces) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (7.3 ounces) sugar
• 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons (1.5 ounces) cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and warm
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons instant coffee
• 1/2 cup hot coffee
• 1/2 cup crushed Whoppers (malted milk balls)

Chocolate Swiss Meringue:

• 5 large egg whites
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 4 sticks unsalted butter, diced and softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted and cooled

Chocolate Sauce:

• 2/3 cups dark chocolate
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons powdered sugar, sifted
• 4-5 tablespoons water, warm

INSTRUCTIONS

Cupcake:

1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla, and beat on medium speed for one minute.
2. Add instant coffee and half of the hot coffee to the mixture and beat for 20 seconds. Scrape the sides of the bowl and add the remaining coffee. Beat for an additional 20-30 seconds until the batter is smooth and thin enough to pour.
3. Divide the batter evenly among lined cupcake cups. Bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees F for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a few cupcakes comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

Chocolate Swiss Meringue:

1. Combine egg whites and sugar in a bowl placed over simmering water. Whisk constantly until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F.
2. Transfer the mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment and beat on medium-high speed until it cools, doubles in volume, and forms stiff peaks (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add the softened butter in one piece at a time, mixing to incorporate after each addition. The mixture may appear clumpy, but keep mixing, and it will become smooth again. Add salt, vanilla, and cooled melted chocolate, and mix to combine.

Chocolate Sauce:

1. Place chocolate and heavy cream in a bowl over simmering water. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes to melt without stirring.
2. Slowly stir the mixture to combine. Add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add warm water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition, until the sauce reaches a pouring consistency. Set aside to cool to warm.

Assembly:

1. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the chocolate Swiss meringue frosting. Freeze the frosted cupcakes for ten minutes. Drizzle the chocolate sauce over the frosting.
2. Sprinkle crushed Whoppers on top of the chocolate sauce. Finish with a small swirl of frosting and a Whopper for garnish.

Indulge in the rich and delightful flavors of these Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes, and enjoy the perfect balance of chocolate and coffee in every bite. These cupcakes are a true delight for dessert enthusiasts and are guaranteed to impress at any event or celebration.