Cupcake Brownies Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cupcake brownies are a dream for chocolate lovers. They’re rich without being overly sweet, perfectly portioned for serving, and topped with a velvety ganache that elevates every bite. Whether for a party, bake sale, or a cozy night in, they’re both elegant and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brownie Cupcakes:

• ½ cup butter, salted

• 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate baking bar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs

• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Ganache Frosting:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, melt the butter and chopped unsweetened chocolate bar in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until fully melted.

3. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar.

4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

5. Add the flour and stir until incorporated.

6. Fold in the chocolate chips.

7. Divide the batter evenly between 10 muffin cups.

8. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

9. Cool the brownie cupcakes completely.

10. For the ganache frosting, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave-safe container until steaming.

11. Pour the cream over the chocolate chips in a large bowl, cover, and let sit for 2–3 minutes.

12. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.

13. Using a hand mixer, beat the ganache until fluffy with stiff peaks.

14. Pipe the frosting onto the cooled brownie cupcakes.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for texture.

• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white or dark chocolate varieties.

• Infuse the ganache with a teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha twist.

• Mix in dried cherries or raspberries for a fruity complement to the chocolate.

• Use peppermint extract in the frosting for a festive holiday flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cupcake brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months, then thaw and frost before serving. Enjoy at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.

2. Do I have to use cupcake liners?

Liners help with easy removal and cleanup, but you can also grease the muffin tin well and bake without them.

3. Can I make these without the ganache frosting?

Absolutely. They’re delicious plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

4. Can I substitute cocoa powder for the baking chocolate?

You can, but the texture and richness may differ. Use 3 tablespoons cocoa powder plus 1 tablespoon butter for each ounce of baking chocolate.

5. How do I know when they’re done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in two muffin tins.

7. How can I make them extra fudgy?

Reduce the flour slightly and avoid overbaking to maintain a dense, fudgy texture.

8. Can I add frosting other than ganache?

Yes, cream cheese frosting or buttercream works well for a sweeter contrast.

9. Will they sink in the middle?

Slight sinking can happen with very fudgy brownies; it’s normal and often hidden by frosting.

10. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend.

Conclusion

These cupcake brownies deliver all the decadent richness of classic brownies with the charm and convenience of cupcakes. Perfect for parties, gifting, or a luxurious treat at home, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for any chocolate enthusiast.

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