Double Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Filling are rich, decadent treats that combine the intense flavor of dark chocolate with a creamy peanut butter center. Topped with a luscious chocolate frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for any chocolate lover!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar)
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

Making Double Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Filling takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips if using.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Fill Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

1. Beat Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add Cocoa and Sugar: Gradually add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Core the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove a small section from the center of each cupcake.
2. Fill with Peanut Butter: Spoon or pipe the peanut butter filling into the center of each cupcake.
3. Frost: Top each filled cupcake with a generous amount of chocolate frosting.

Step 6: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve the cupcakes at room temperature. Enjoy these indulgent treats!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Double Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Filling (per cupcake, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Cupcake
Calories	350
Protein	6g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	25g

Tips for Customization

• Chocolate Variations: Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a different flavor.
• Nut Butter Options: Substitute almond or cashew butter for the peanut butter if you have nut allergies or prefer a different taste.
• Toppings: Add crushed peanuts or chocolate shavings on top of the frosting for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Double Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Filling are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for celebrations or as a special treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite! Enjoy this delightful recipe!