Ghirardelli Chocolate Cupcakes with Frosting

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Ghirardelli Chocolate Cupcakes with Frosting.

1. Step 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two muffin pans with paper liners.

2. Step 2

   In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

3. Step 3

   In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 1 minute until well combined.

4. Step 4

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and buttermilk until smooth.

5. Step 5

   With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the liquid mixture. Mix until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

6. Step 6

   Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Step 7

   For the chocolate frosting, melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler, stirring occasionally until smooth, about 5 minutes.

8. Step 8

   In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder and boiling water. Allow both the melted chocolate and cocoa mixture to cool to room temperature.

9. Step 9

   In the mixer bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, and salt on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add the melted chocolate, then mix in the cocoa mixture until well combined.

10. Step 10

    To assemble, pipe the chocolate frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Let the frosting set for about 5 minutes, then decorate each cupcake with a Ghirardelli Chocolate Bunny on top.