Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite dessert recipes: High Hat Chocolate Cherry Cream Cupcakes. Talk about a party in your mouth! These cupcakes not only look stunning with their high hats of glossy chocolate ganache but also deliver a punch of flavor with that luscious cherry cream filling. Perfect for birthdays, cozy evenings, or just when you want to spoil yourself (and trust me, you deserve it!).
I first made these cupcakes during a family get-together when I was tasked with bringing dessert. I thought, “Why not impress everyone with something that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up?” Let me tell you, they were gone in a flash! The blend of rich chocolate and sweet cherry has become a staple in my kitchen ever since. Now, let’s dive into the delicious details, shall we?
What’s in High Hat Chocolate Cherry Cream Cupcakes?
All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of our cupcakes. It gives them that lovely, fluffy texture. I usually use whatever brand is on sale, but any all-purpose flour will do!
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key! This sugar helps balance out the richness of the cocoa and adds moisture to the cupcakes.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is what gives our cupcakes that deep, chocolaty flavor. I typically go for Dutch-processed cocoa for a subtle and smooth taste.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These guys are the magic leavening agents that help your cupcakes rise beautifully. They’re both essential for that light, airy texture.
Salt: It may seem small, but a touch of salt enhances every sweet bite, making the flavors pop!
Unsalted Butter: Softened to perfection, butter adds richness and helps create a tender crumb. Always a must in my baking!
Large Eggs: They help bind everything together and give the cupcakes their structure.
Vanilla Extract: It adds a lovely aroma and flavor! I opt for pure vanilla extract because, to me, it’s worth the splurge.
Milk: Adds moisture to the batter and perfectly balances the dry ingredients.
Heavy Cream: Used both in the cherry filling and the ganache, it brings a rich, creamy texture. It’s that secret ingredient that takes everything to the next level.
Powdered Sugar: This gives our cherry cream a sweetness that complements the tartness of the cherry preserves.
Cherry Preserves or Cherry Pie Filling: This is the star of the show in terms of flavor! The cherry filling adds a delightful fruitiness and is oh-so-yummy.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The base of our ganache, providing that silky, chocolatey topping that seals the deal.
Sprinkles: Because who doesn’t love a splash of color? They add that finishing touch and make these cupcakes even more delightful!
Is High Hat Chocolate Cherry Cream Cupcakes Good for You?
While these cupcakes are an indulgence, there are a few ingredients that pack a little nutritional punch!
Cherry Preserves: Cherries are high in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. How about that for a valid excuse to indulge?
Heavy Cream: It does contain fats, but in moderation, it can be a good source of vitamin A and calcium.
However, let’s be real; these cupcakes are definitely a treat and should be enjoyed as such! If you’re looking to cut back a bit, you could experiment with replacing some of the butter or sugar with alternatives. Just keep in mind – the results may vary!
Ingredients
– For the Cupcakes (makes around 12 cupcakes):
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup milk
– For the Cherry Cream Filling:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves or cherry pie filling
– For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– For Garnish:
– Sprinkles (variety of colors)
How to Make High Hat Chocolate Cherry Cream Cupcakes?
1. **Prepare the Cupcake Batter**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk, then mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
2. **Bake the Cupcakes**: Line a cupcake pan with paper liners and fill each cup about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely in the pan.
3. **Make the Cherry Cream Filling**: In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the cherry preserves until just combined. Set this mixture aside.
4. **Core the Cupcakes**: Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, use a knife or a cupcake corer to carefully remove the center of each cupcake, creating a small hollow. Fill each with the cherry cream filling using a piping bag or a spoon.
5. **Prepare the Chocolate Ganache**: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
6. **Dip the Cupcakes**: Once the ganache has cooled slightly and thickened but is still pourable, dip the top of each filled cupcake into the ganache to coat. Let the excess chocolate drip off.
7. **Add Sprinkles**: Immediately after dipping each cupcake, sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top before the ganache sets.
8. **Chill and Serve**: Place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the ganache to firm up. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Ah, just writing this makes my mouth water!
Sprinkle Some Extra Joy!
If you want to switch things up, why not try different fillings? Cream cheese frosting or even a raspberry filling would be delicious too! Feel free to get creative with your sprinkles – I’ve seen everything from colorful jimmies to festive nonpareils!
I can’t wait for you to try making these High Hat Chocolate Cherry Cream Cupcakes! So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and get baking. And please let me know how they turn out! Feel free to share your own twist and experiences in the comments. Happy baking!
