Dark Chocolate Ghirardelli Cupcakes

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

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   While it warms up, grab a 12-cup muffin tin and either line it with cheerful paper liners or give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cupcakes come out easily.

3. Step 3

   In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, Ghirardelli cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt, blending them until they’re well combined.

4. Step 4

   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together an egg, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

5. Step 5

   Next, stir in whole milk, brewed coffee, and melted butter, mixing until everything is beautifully incorporated.

6. Step 6

   Now, it’s time to bring the dry and wet ingredients together.

7. Step 7

   Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet one, stirring gently until just combined—remember, a little lumpiness is perfectly fine; overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes.

8. Step 8

   Carefully divide the batter among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about three-quarters full to allow for that delightful rise.

9. Step 9

   Pop the tin into your preheated oven and bake for around 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

10. Step 10

    Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Step 11

    For the luscious frosting, melt chopped Ghirardelli chocolate using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring occasionally until it’s silky smooth.

12. Step 12

    Heat some cream until it’s hot, then remove it from the heat and whisk it into the melted chocolate until they blend together beautifully.

13. Step 13

    Transfer this rich mixture to a bowl and let it cool to a warm temperature.

14. Step 14

    Once it’s cooled down, whisk in butter until the frosting is smooth and glossy.

15. Step 15

    Allow the frosting to sit for about an hour until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

16. Step 16

    Finally, generously spread the frosting over your cooled cupcakes and, if you’re feeling a little extra, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top for that finishing touch.

17. Step 17

    Enjoy the delightful process and the delicious results!.