Name: Moist Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup (105g) all-purpose flour; ½ cup (42g) unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar; ⅓ cup (70g) packed light brown sugar; ¼ tsp salt; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; ¼ cup (60ml) sunflower oil; 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract; 3 tbsp (45ml) full fat sour cream or plain yogurt; 6 tbsp (90ml) whole milk, slightly warmed; ½ cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional); 4 oz (113g) semisweet chocolate, chopped; ¼ cup (60ml) 35% heavy whipping cream; Chocolate frosting as per separate instructions; Chocolate sprinkles

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If you are a chocolate lover searching for a dessert that hits every note of rich, velvety indulgence, look no further than this Moist Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes are the perfect balance of fluffy, fudgy, and decadent with layers of cocoa and luscious chocolate that will have you swooning at the very first bite. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply craving an everyday treat, this recipe promises a chocolate experience that is moist, tender, and impossibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ten small clear glass bowls and two brown eggs arranged on a pinkish surface. The bowls contain different ingredients: white flour in a large bowl at the top center, dark brown cocoa powder to the right, light brown sugar below the cocoa powder, white granulated sugar in the middle, small butter cubes next to the brown sugar, white sour cream on the left, small chocolate chips below the sour cream, white powders likely baking soda and baking powder in a small bowl below the chocolate chips, and white milk in a bowl at the bottom right. The two eggs are placed side by side near the center, between the sour cream and butter cubes. A glass measuring cup with a light yellow liquid, probably oil, sits on the left. The surface beneath everything is pink. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every great bake starts with simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create delightful textures and flavors. This Moist Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe uses pantry staples combined with rich chocolate elements to bring out depth, moisture, and irresistible chocolate goodness in every cupcake.

All-purpose flour, ¾ cup (105g): The base that gives structure while allowing for a tender crumb.
Unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ cup (42g): For intense chocolate flavor and that deep, dark color we all crave in chocolate cupcakes.
Baking powder, ½ tsp: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and become wonderfully fluffy.
Baking soda, ½ tsp: Works with baking powder to give lift and lightness.
Granulated sugar, ½ cup (100g): Adds sweetness and helps create that tender crumb.
Light brown sugar, ⅓ cup (70g): Brings moisture and subtle caramel notes that enhance the chocolate.
Salt, ¼ tsp: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
Large eggs (2), at room temperature: Provide structure and moisture; room temperature eggs blend more evenly.
Sunflower oil, ¼ cup (60ml): Keeps the cupcakes soft and moist without overpowering flavor.
Melted unsalted butter, 2 tbsp (28g): Adds richness and a touch of luxurious texture.
Pure vanilla extract, 1 tsp (5ml): Brightens chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
Full fat sour cream or plain yogurt, 3 tbsp (45ml): Enhances moistness and tender crumb through acidity.
Whole milk, 6 tbsp (90ml), slightly warmed: Helps hydrate the batter for a smooth mix and richer taste.
Mini dark chocolate chips, ½ cup (optional): Adds little pockets of melty chocolate in each bite for extra indulgence.
Semisweet chocolate, 4 oz (113g), chopped: Essential for the rich chocolate glaze.
Heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup (60ml), 35% fat: Makes the glaze silky and glossy for a stunning finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Moist Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. This simple step ensures an even bake and makes cleanup a breeze, setting the stage for cupcakes that come out perfect every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda into a large bowl. Then whisk in both the granulated and light brown sugars along with the salt, making sure to break up any brown sugar lumps. This careful mixing creates a smooth, airy base essential for a tender cupcake with rich chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add the sunflower oil, melted butter, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Begin whisking gently to combine everything without overworking the batter. Be sure to poke the eggs first to break up the yolks, helping them blend seamlessly. At this point, the mixture will look thick and dry—don’t worry, the next step will fix that!

Step 4: Add Warm Milk and Chocolate Chips

Warm your whole milk to just lukewarm and pour it into the batter, whisking until fully smooth and creamy. This added liquid transforms the batter to the perfect consistency. If you love extra bursts of chocolate, fold in the mini dark chocolate chips now for that irresistible melty surprise in every bite.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Fill each muffin liner about two-thirds full to avoid spillovers or soggy centers. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center—it should come out clean. Once baked, transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack and let them cool completely before glazing and frosting to keep their delicate texture intact.

Step 6: Create the Chocolate Glaze

Combine chopped semisweet chocolate with heavy whipping cream in a bowl and microwave on 50% power for 1½ minutes until the cream bubbles. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. Allow the glaze to cool until thick but still pourable, then dip the tops of the cooled cupcakes for a shiny, decadent finish. Chill in the fridge to set before moving on to frosting.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Once the glaze is set, pipe your favorite frosting generously on top of each cupcake. For a classic trio of chocolate delights, decorate with chocolate sprinkles or any fun chocolate toppings of your choice. The combination of moist cake, silky glaze, and rich frosting will give you a dreamy, triple chocolate experience.

How to Serve Moist Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

The image shows two cupcakes with smooth, shiny dark chocolate frosting on top, each sitting in white paper liners. One cupcake has a thick layer of chocolate spread covering the top evenly with a glossy texture, while the other cupcake is frosted with a swirl of lighter brown chocolate icing. To the left, there is another cupcake partially visible, topped with chocolate sprinkles. Below the cupcakes, there is a white, fluted bowl filled with dark chocolate sprinkles and a gold spoon with chocolate spread on it resting nearby. The items are placed on a dark red surface with a blue textured cloth partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling some chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top adds that extra wow factor. Fresh raspberries or a mint leaf can also brighten up the plate and complement the deep chocolate tastes beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serving these cupcakes alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream creates a perfect contrast of temperature and texture. A cup of freshly brewed espresso or milk is also ideal to balance the richness in these cupcakes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking two cupcakes with a layer of frosting between for a double-decker treat or serve them in elegant glass jars with layers of frosting or mousse for a stylish dessert twist. You can even drizzle caramel or raspberry sauce over the top for added flavor complexity and a stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Storing correctly helps maintain their moisture and freshness so every bite stays just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

These cupcakes freeze exceptionally well. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your cupcakes warm, gently heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This quick warmth amplifies the chocolate flavor and restores that freshly baked appeal, especially when served with a scoop of ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

While all-purpose flour works best for the tender yet sturdy texture of these cupcakes, you can substitute with cake flour for an even lighter crumb. Just keep in mind that the consistency may vary slightly.

Are the chocolate chips necessary?

Chocolate chips add delightful little bursts of melted chocolate inside the cupcakes but are completely optional. If you prefer a simpler texture, feel free to leave them out.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine and use your favorite non-dairy milk along with a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Keep in mind that the glaze may need adjustment using dairy-free chocolate and cream substitutes.

Is there a way to make these cupcakes less sweet?

Reducing the sugar can impact both texture and moisture, so if you prefer less sweetness, try cutting granulated sugar by a small amount or opting for semi-sweet chocolate with a higher cocoa content.

How should I handle the frosting mentioned in the recipe?

The frosting is key to that luxurious triple chocolate effect. While the original recipe references preparing it separately, a classic chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting blends perfectly with these cupcakes for a creamy and rich finish.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe truly brings together everything a chocolate lover dreams of—deep cocoa flavor, tender crumb, and layers of luscious chocolate in every bite. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these cupcakes as much as I do. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to chocolate cupcake recipe for every occasion!

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