Chili Chocolate Cupcakes with Spicy Cream Cheese Frosting

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Chili Chocolate Cupcakes with Spicy Cream Cheese Frosting.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and prepare 24 muffin cups with paper liners for easy removal.

2. Step 2

   In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix with 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground ancho chile and a hint of heat from 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.

3. Step 3

   Pour in 1 1/4 cups of water, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and crack in 3 eggs.

4. Step 4

   With an electric mixer set to medium speed, blend the ingredients for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.

5. Step 5

   Gently spoon the luscious batter into the lined muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for delightful rising.

6. Step 6

   Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake emerges clean.

7. Step 7

   Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before adding the frosting.

8. Step 8

   For the frosting, sift together 1 teaspoon of ground ancho chile, 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 4 cups of confectioners' sugar in a mixing bowl.

9. Step 9

   Blend in 1 (8 ounce) package of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture transforms into a smooth, creamy delight.

10. Step 10

    Add 1/2 teaspoon of clear vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

11. Step 11

    Once your cupcakes have cooled, generously spread the frosting on top in beautiful swirls.

12. Step 12

    For a charming finishing touch, insert a small dried red chile into the frosting, stem-side up, adding a pop of color and a hint of spice.

13. Step 13

    Enjoy your deliciously unique chocolate cupcakes!.