Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of these Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes. This dessert is a divine treat that perfectly combines the bitter notes of dark chocolate with a hint of sea salt. A simple yet sophisticated recipe for a dessert that is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.
The standout ingredients in this recipe are dark chocolate cocoa powder and coarse sea salt. Dark chocolate cocoa powder can be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets, though you may need to seek out a gourmet or specialty store for higher-quality options. Coarse sea salt, on the other hand, is a unique ingredient that enhances the flavors of this dessert. Regular table salt will not give the same result. Be sure to pick these up when you're at the supermarket.
Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcake Ingredients
Butter: The base for any good cupcake, lending a rich and creamy flavor.
Granulated sugar: This will sweeten the cupcakes.
Eggs: They add structure and help with leavening.
Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, creamy flavor.
All-purpose flour: This is the structure of the cupcakes.
Dark chocolate cocoa powder: Gives the cupcakes a deep chocolate flavor.
Baking soda: This helps the cupcakes rise.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the cupcakes.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
Coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
Coarse sea salt: Adds a nice contrast to the sweet chocolate flavor.
Dark chocolate: The main flavor in the ganache frosting.
Heavy cream: Makes the ganache frosting rich and creamy.
One reader, Isacco Buckingham says:
These salted dark chocolate cupcakes are a game-changer! The rich, moist chocolate base paired with the decadent ganache frosting and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a perfect balance of flavors. It's a delightful treat that's sure to impress any chocolate lover. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Cream the butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients and mix the buttermilk and coffee. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk-coffee mixture to the creamed butter, beating well after each addition.
How to bake the cupcakes: Fill paper-lined baking cups two-thirds full and bake at 375 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool for 10 minutes before removing them from the pans to cool completely on wire racks.
How to make the chocolate ganache frosting: Place the chopped chocolate in a heat-proof bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it just reaches a boil, then pour it over the chocolate. Stir slowly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool until it reaches room temperature, about 1 to 2 hours, to allow it to thicken. Spoon or pipe the ganache onto the cupcakes.
How To Make Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
Smooth, rich, with a hint of bitterness, these dark chocolate cupcakes will surely impress you. Sprinkle some salt to give it a balanced flavor.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Cupcake:
- ½cupbutter,softened, 1 stick
- 1½cupsgranulated sugar
- 2eggs
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1½cupsall-purpose flour
- ½cupdark chocolate cocoa powder
- 1tspbaking soda
- ¼tspsalt
- ½cupbuttermilk
- ½cupcoffee
- coarse sea salt,for sprinkling
For Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
- 18ozdark chocolate,chopped
- 1½cupsheavy cream
Instructions
Cupcakes:
-
In the bowl of stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add in vanilla.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt until combined.
-
Then in an additional separate bowl, stir together buttermilk and coffee.
-
Add dry ingredients to creamed butter mixture alternately with buttermilk and coffee, beating well after each addition.
-
Fill paper-lined baking cups two-thirds full. Bake at 375 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
-
Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
-
Top with chocolate ganache frosting, then sprinkle with sea salt.
Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
-
Place the chopped chocolate in a small heat-proof bowl.
-
Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it just reaches a boil. Remove from heat and immediately pour over the chocolate.
-
Stir slowly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool until it reaches room temperature, about 1 to 2 hours. It will continue to thicken the longer it sets.
-
Spoon or pipe the ganache onto the cupcakes.
Recipe Notes
If the ganache is too thin for piping, you can transfer it to the bowl of a stand mixer and beat it on medium-high for 3 to 5 minutes until it reaches a better consistency for piping.
Nutrition
- Calories: 301.50kcal
- Fat: 19.11g
- Saturated Fat: 11.36g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.53g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.73g
- Carbohydrates: 29.99g
- Fiber: 3.19g
- Sugar: 18.35g
- Protein: 3.78g
- Cholesterol: 44.72mg
- Sodium: 179.38mg
- Calcium: 38.04mg
- Potassium: 215.84mg
- Iron: 3.22mg
- Vitamin A: 100.36µg
- Vitamin C: 0.14mg
Key Technique for Perfect Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
When making the chocolate ganache frosting, ensure the cream is hot enough to melt the dark chocolate but not boiling. If the cream is too hot, it can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy. Also, stirring slowly and gently helps to create a smooth and shiny ganache.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
Prep ahead: Mix the dry cupcake ingredients the night before and store in an airtight container. Measure out the wet ingredients and store in the refrigerator. This will save time and make the baking process more efficient.
Use a piping bag: Fill a piping bag with the cupcake batter for easy and mess-free filling of the cupcake liners. This will help ensure uniform cupcakes and save time compared to spooning the batter into the liners.
Double up: Make a double batch of cupcakes and freeze the extras for later. This way, you'll have delicious cupcakes ready to enjoy without the need to start from scratch.
Organized workspace: Before starting, ensure your workspace is organized with all the necessary ingredients and tools readily accessible. This will streamline the baking process and save time searching for items.
Substitute Ingredients For Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the cupcakes as butter.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes, and it also brings a unique flavor.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cupcakes, similar to eggs.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative and adds a nutty flavor to the cupcakes.
dark chocolate cocoa powder - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder is a healthier alternative and provides a rich, chocolatey flavor to the cupcakes.
buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt mixed with milk: This mixture can mimic the tangy flavor and creamy texture of buttermilk.
coffee - Substitute with espresso: Espresso can provide a stronger coffee flavor and enhance the richness of the cupcakes.
dark chocolate - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate can provide a slightly less intense chocolate flavor while still maintaining richness.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a dairy-free alternative with a similar creamy texture for the ganache frosting.
Presentation Ideas for Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
Elevate the cupcake: Place the cupcake on a decorative plate to add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Ganache drizzle: Drizzle the chocolate ganache in a circular motion on top of the cupcake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a visually appealing effect.
Sprinkle with sea salt: Gently sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top of the ganache to provide a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a pop of color and a delicate touch by garnishing the cupcake with edible flowers such as pansies or violets.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Present the cupcake alongside a dollop of whipped cream for a luxurious and indulgent accompaniment.
Use gold leaf: For an opulent touch, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of the cupcake to create a stunning visual impact.
Arrange on a tiered stand: Display the cupcakes on a tiered stand to showcase them beautifully and create a striking visual presentation.
Dust with cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an artistic and sophisticated finishing touch.
Essential Tools for Making Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
- Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It typically comes with various attachments for different tasks such as mixing batter, kneading dough, and whipping cream.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It is commonly used to incorporate air into mixtures and create smooth textures.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking. They come in various sizes and are used to measure both liquid and dry ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Mixing bowls are used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various components of a recipe. They come in different sizes and materials such as stainless steel, glass, and plastic.
- Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and simmering ingredients. It is an essential tool for heating and preparing various components of a recipe.
- Heat-proof bowl: A heat-proof bowl is designed to withstand high temperatures without cracking or breaking. It is commonly used for melting chocolate, making ganache, and other heat-sensitive tasks.
- Paper-lined baking cups: Paper-lined baking cups are used to line muffin or cupcake pans, providing a non-stick surface and easy removal of baked goods. They help maintain the shape of the cupcakes and prevent sticking.
- Piping bag: A piping bag is a cone-shaped bag with a nozzle at one end, used for piping frosting, ganache, or other decorative elements onto cupcakes and cakes. It allows for precise and decorative application of frostings and fillings.
- Toothpick: A toothpick is a small, pointed wooden or plastic stick used to test the doneness of baked goods. It is inserted into the center of the cupcakes, and if it comes out clean, the cupcakes are fully baked.
- Wire racks: Wire racks are used for cooling baked goods such as cupcakes, cookies, and cakes. They allow air to circulate around the baked items, preventing sogginess and promoting even cooling.
Storing and Freezing Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you want to store them longer, place the cupcakes in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To freeze the cupcakes, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- When ready to serve, remove the cupcakes from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
- If you've already frosted the cupcakes with the chocolate ganache, you can still freeze them. Just make sure to place them in a single layer in an airtight container to prevent the frosting from getting smudged.
- To defrost the frosted cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This will help prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off the cupcakes.
- If you want to store the chocolate ganache frosting separately, you can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let it come to room temperature and give it a good stir before using it to frost the cupcakes.
How To Reheat Leftover Cupcakes
To reheat leftover salted dark chocolate cupcakes, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the cupcakes warm up evenly without drying out or becoming too crispy on the edges.
Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you want to prevent the bottoms from getting too crispy, you can also place them in a muffin tin. This will help the cupcakes retain their moisture and texture.
Before placing the cupcakes in the oven, you can brush them lightly with a bit of melted butter or heavy cream. This will help keep them moist and prevent them from drying out during the reheating process.
If your cupcakes have chocolate ganache frosting, you may want to remove it before reheating. The frosting can melt and become messy in the oven. You can always re-frost the cupcakes after they've been reheated.
Place the cupcakes in the preheated oven and heat them for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't overheat or burn. You want them to be warm and soft, but not hot enough to melt the frosting or burn your mouth.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can also reheat the cupcakes in the microwave. Place one or two cupcakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for about 10-15 seconds. Check them after 10 seconds to see if they're warm enough. If not, continue heating them in 5-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature.
Once the cupcakes are warm, you can re-frost them with the chocolate ganache frosting if desired. If the frosting has hardened, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften it up before spreading it on the cupcakes.
Finally, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt over the top of each cupcake to enhance the flavor and add a slight crunch. The salt will complement the rich, dark chocolate flavor of the cupcakes and make them even more irresistible.
Interesting Facts About Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, making it a heart-healthy treat.
Is Making Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this salted dark chocolate cupcakes recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. While dark chocolate and heavy cream can be pricier, the remaining ingredients are commonly found in households. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Considering the decadent nature of the cupcakes and the relatively low cost per serving, this recipe earns a solid 8/10 for cost-effectiveness.
Are Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for salted dark chocolate cupcakes is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest treat. The main ingredients that make this recipe less than ideal from a nutritional standpoint are:
- High amounts of sugar and butter, which contribute to excessive calories and saturated fat
- Refined all-purpose flour, which lacks fiber and essential nutrients
- Heavy cream in the ganache frosting, adding more saturated fat and calories
However, there are a few redeeming qualities, such as the use of dark chocolate, which contains antioxidants, and the relatively small portion size of cupcakes compared to larger desserts.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising too much on taste and texture, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the sugar content by 25-50% and replace some of the granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates
- Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Replace some of the butter with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce saturated fat and add moisture
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the ganache frosting for a healthier fat profile
- Top the cupcakes with fresh berries for added fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness
Remember, even with these healthier modifications, cupcakes should still be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence.
Editor's Opinion on This Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcake Recipe
This salted dark chocolate cupcake recipe is a delightful balance of rich, decadent flavors and a hint of savory salt. The combination of dark chocolate and sea salt creates a sophisticated and indulgent treat. The moist and tender texture of the cupcake pairs perfectly with the smooth and luscious chocolate ganache frosting. The addition of coffee adds depth to the chocolate flavor, making these cupcakes a true delight for chocolate lovers. The sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top adds a delightful contrast, elevating the overall taste experience. This recipe is a perfect choice for special occasions or simply to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
Enhance Your Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
Why trust this Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe:
This salted dark chocolate cupcake recipe is a decadent treat that combines the richness of dark chocolate with a hint of savory sea salt. The use of buttermilk and coffee adds depth of flavor and moisture to the cupcakes, ensuring a tender crumb. The luscious chocolate ganache frosting is made with high-quality dark chocolate and rich heavy cream, resulting in a velvety smooth texture. The sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top enhances the overall taste experience, making this recipe a delightful indulgence for any chocolate lover.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Banana Cupcakes with Dark Chocolate Chunks Recipe
Supreme Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe
Chunky Monkey Cupcakes Recipe
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Chocolate Ganache Raspberry Tarts Recipe
Chiles En Vinagre Recipe
Parmesan Zucchini Recipe
Red Pepper Martini Recipe
Spiced Black Bean Hummus Recipe
S’mores Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Grilled Corn and Watermelon Salsa Recipe
