Black Forest Cupcakes

These decadent Black Forest Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic German Black Forest cake. They are made with rich, moist chocolate cupcakes filled with a luscious cherry filling and topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. The combination of sweet cherries and dark chocolate creates a luxurious treat that’s perfect for any special occasion or indulgent dessert craving. These cupcakes are not only beautiful but also bursting with flavors that will transport you to a cozy café in the heart of the Black Forest.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup hot water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp Kirsch (optional)

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Chocolate shavings
• Whole cherries (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Make the cupcake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk, and mix until combined. Slowly add the hot water and stir until the batter is smooth.
3. Bake the cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the cherry filling: In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the Kirsch, if using, and set aside to cool.
5. Hollow out the cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are cool, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the centers of each cupcake, creating a small hole for the cherry filling.
6. Fill the cupcakes: Spoon the cherry filling into the center of each cupcake.
7. Make the whipped cream: In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
8. Decorate the cupcakes: Pipe or spoon the whipped cream onto each cupcake, covering the cherry filling. Garnish with chocolate shavings and a whole cherry on top, if desired.
9. Serve: Enjoy these beautiful and delicious Black Forest Cupcakes immediately or store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.