Decadent Chocolate Orange Cupcakes

by

These Decadent Chocolate Orange Cupcakes are a delightful twist on a classic flavor combination. The rich chocolate base is infused with real orange zest and juice, giving each bite a refreshing citrusy note that perfectly complements the cocoa. Topped with a luscious orange buttercream, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday gatherings. With a hint of orange extract and optional food coloring, these cupcakes bring a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your dessert table!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

  • 130g (⅔ cup) caster sugar
  • 130g (⅔ cup) butter, softened
  • 130g (1 cup) self-raising flour
  • 30g (¼ cup) cocoa powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 40g (⅓ cup) chocolate orange, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 fresh orange, juice and zest

For the Orange Buttercream Icing:

  • 125g (⅔ cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 250g (1 ½ cups) icing sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons orange extract
  • 10 drops orange food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Making the Cupcakes

  1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
    • This step will ensure your cupcakes have a soft, light texture.
  3. Add the Eggs:
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated.
  4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
    • Sift the self-raising flour and cocoa powder into the bowl with the wet ingredients.
    • Fold gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  5. Add the Orange Flavor:
    • Gently fold in the chopped chocolate orange pieces, orange zest, and orange juice.
    • Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  6. Divide and Bake:
    • Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
    • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Orange Buttercream Icing

  1. Beat the Butter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the Icing Sugar:
    • Gradually add the icing sugar, beating well after each addition to ensure a fluffy, smooth texture.
  3. Add the Orange Flavor and Color:
    • Add the orange extract and mix well. If using food coloring, add a few drops at a time until you reach your desired shade of orange.
  4. Frost the Cupcakes:
    • Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the orange buttercream on top of each cupcake. Garnish with a small piece of chocolate orange, orange zest, or extra sprinkles for decoration, if desired.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Orange Cupcakes are a beautiful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing orange flavors, creating a cupcake that’s both elegant and irresistible. With a moist chocolate base and a light, citrusy buttercream, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful recipe that brings together the classic combination of chocolate and orange in every bite!