Chocolate Chip Cupcake with Frosting Recipes
Few treats rival the classic charm of chocolate chip cupcakes topped with luscious vanilla buttercream. These delightful confections combine the comforting flavors of vanilla and chocolate in a moist, tender crumb, crowned with a swirl of creamy frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging a sweet craving, this recipe offers a straightforward path to homemade cupcake perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour.
- Versatile: Perfect base for various frostings and toppings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare these cupcakes, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter using a spatula, ensuring even distribution.
Step 7: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, frost them using a piping bag fitted with your preferred tip or by spreading the frosting with a spatula. Optionally, garnish with additional chocolate chips for added texture and visual appeal.
Expert Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until ingredients are combined to prevent dense cupcakes.
- Flour Coating: Toss chocolate chips in a little flour before adding to the batter to prevent sinking.
- Even Baking: Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking for uniform cupcakes.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If frosted, keep cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips?
Yes, but mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly throughout the cupcake.
Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Absolutely. Almond, soy, or oat milk can be used in place of dairy milk.
Why did my cupcakes sink in the middle?
This could be due to overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too early during baking.
Conclusion
Baking chocolate chip cupcakes with vanilla buttercream frosting is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. With this straightforward recipe, you can create moist, flavorful cupcakes that are sure to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, these cupcakes are a delightful choice.
Now, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s bake something amazing!
