Chocolate Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

With my obsession for baking, comes too an obsession for knowing my loved one’s favorite desserts. I keep a spreadsheet listed with everyone’s favorites so I’m prepared on birthdays and special occasions. *insert bashful grin*

This past month, my Aunt has been staying with us. I fondly call her “Cool Aunt” and so of course I had to bake her something special for making the trip from Houston to see us. I consulted my spreadsheet and got to work on these chocolate cupcakes with vanilla buttercream. Her favorite.

During her stay, she’s been helping taste-test and the Cherry Clafoutis has also made it onto the spreadsheet under her name.

Meanwhile, these cupcakes have also been added under Fabien’s name. One cupcake turned into three and he said, “These are just so easy to eat.”

Despite my love for baking, my love for Kara’s cupcakes, and my attempts to bake the perfect cupcakes with Chef Maeve, Part I (of 2): Chef Maeve & Part 2: Chef Maeve, I rarely make them myself. I was really pleased with how they turned out. Incredibly soft and fluffy, it’s no wonder our world is obsessed with cupcakes. The chocolate is bold but not bitter and pairs perfectly with the sweet vanilla buttercream. They go together like peanut butter and jelly. Enjoy!

Oh wait, one last thing. The buttercream can either be spread onto the cupcake with an offset spatula (which makes it easier when transporting) or you can pipe it on with a pastry bag or homemade ziplock bag. See below: