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Black Velvet Cupcakes

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Black Velvet Cupcakes are a dramatic, chocolatey twist on classic red velvet. With rich cocoa flavor, a moist and tender crumb, and bold black coloring, these elegant cupcakes are perfect for Halloween, birthdays, or any special occasion where you want your dessert to impress.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 standard cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert, Cupcakes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (dark or black cocoa preferred)
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Eggs
  • Buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil
  • Vanilla extract
  • White vinegar
  • Black food coloring (gel or powder preferred)
  • Optional: Cream cheese or buttercream frosting

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add buttermilk, oil, vanilla extract, vinegar, and black food coloring. Mix well.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined—do not overmix.
  5. Divide batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
  6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Frost with cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream once fully cooled.

Notes

  • Natural coloring option: Use only black cocoa for a dark chocolate hue without food coloring.
  • Flavor boost: Add a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the cocoa flavor.
  • Filling ideas: Try ganache or raspberry jam for a surprise center.
  • Decorating tip: Top with Halloween sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive touch.
  • Mini or jumbo: Bake 10–12 minutes for minis, 25–28 for jumbo cupcakes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/black-velvet-cupcakes/