Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Cupcakes with Blackberry Buttercream offer a rich, moist chocolate base topped with a vibrant, fruity buttercream that’s both sweet and tangy. The combination of deep cocoa flavor and fresh berry notes makes these cupcakes an elegant choice for celebrations, parties, or an indulgent treat. The natural hue of the blackberry buttercream adds visual appeal without the need for food coloring.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourgranulated sugarsaltbaking sodabaking powderunsweetened cocoa powdereggswhole milksour creamvegetable oilvanilla extractboiling waterunsalted butterpowdered sugarfresh or frozen blackberrieslemon juice

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, milk, sour cream, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated.

Add the boiling water slowly and mix until the batter is smooth and slightly thin.

Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the cupcakes in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make the blackberry buttercream, place blackberries in a small saucepan with lemon juice and cook over medium heat until they break down. Strain the mixture to remove seeds and cool the puree.

Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Add the cooled blackberry puree a little at a time, beating until light and fluffy.

Pipe or spread the buttercream over the cooled cupcakes.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 18-20 cupcakes.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 20 minutesCooling and frosting time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Substitute raspberries or blueberries for a different berry flavor.

Add a chocolate ganache center to the cupcakes for extra indulgence.

Top with fresh blackberries or chocolate shavings for decoration.

Use buttermilk instead of milk and sour cream for a tangy flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.To enjoy them slightly warm, microwave for 10 seconds before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries?

Yes, just thaw and drain them before using in the buttercream.

Why is my buttercream too runny?

You may have added too much puree. Add more powdered sugar to thicken.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cupcakes a day ahead and frost before serving.

How do I make the cupcakes extra moist?

Using sour cream and oil helps retain moisture without making them dense.

Can I use a piping bag for the frosting?

Absolutely, it creates a beautiful swirl and makes presentation easy.

Do I need to sift the dry ingredients?

It’s optional but recommended for a smoother batter.

Can I make a cake instead of cupcakes?

Yes, use the same batter in a cake pan and adjust baking time accordingly.

Are these cupcakes very sweet?

They have a balanced sweetness with a rich chocolate base and fruity frosting.

Can I add espresso powder?

Yes, adding a bit of espresso enhances the chocolate flavor.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can omit it, but it helps brighten the flavor of the blackberry buttercream.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cupcakes with Blackberry Buttercream combine luxurious chocolate with fresh berry elegance for a truly standout dessert. Whether for birthdays, special gatherings, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these cupcakes deliver a perfect blend of richness and refreshing fruitiness. Give them a try and impress your guests with their flavor and beauty.