Vanilla Bean Chocolate Cupcakes

Name: Vanilla Bean Chocolate Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 vanilla bean, scraped; 2-3 tbsp heavy cream

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and aromatic vanilla in these Vanilla Bean Chocolate Cupcakes.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-02T21:50:29.350Z

These Vanilla Bean Chocolate Cupcakes are a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy both chocolate lovers and vanilla enthusiasts. Each bite offers a moist, fluffy texture topped with creamy vanilla bean frosting.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh vanilla bean essence
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

These Vanilla Bean Chocolate Cupcakes offer a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and fragrant vanilla. The use of high-quality cocoa powder ensures a deep, indulgent chocolate flavor, while the addition of real vanilla beans elevates the sweetness and complexity of the cupcakes. This delightful combination makes each bite a luxurious treat, perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging yourself, these cupcakes will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. The contrasting flavors of chocolate and vanilla create a memorable taste experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Texture That Delights

One of the standout features of these cupcakes is their light and fluffy texture. Achieving the perfect cake consistency can be tricky, but this recipe ensures that your cupcakes will be moist and tender. The buttermilk adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the overall flavor while keeping the cupcakes soft and airy.

To achieve this delightful texture, it’s important to not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. This will help maintain the cupcakes’ lightness, allowing them to rise beautifully in the oven. The result is a cupcake that melts in your mouth with each heavenly bite.

Frosting That Steals the Show

No cupcake is complete without a luscious frosting, and the vanilla bean frosting in this recipe is truly exceptional. Made with real vanilla bean specks, the frosting brings an extra layer of flavor and elegance to the overall dessert. The creamy texture complements the chocolate cupcakes perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.

Feel free to adjust the consistency of the frosting by adding more or less heavy cream. This allows you to achieve the ideal texture for spreading or piping, ensuring that your cupcakes look as good as they taste. With its rich flavor and beautiful appearance, this frosting is sure to steal the show!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

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

For the Vanilla Bean Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, scraped
2-3 tbsp heavy cream

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners and bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and scraped vanilla bean. Add heavy cream as needed to reach desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the vanilla bean frosting.

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Bean Chocolate Cupcakes!

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, always use room temperature ingredients. This includes butter, eggs, and buttermilk, as they mix more evenly and contribute to a uniform batter. If you forget to take them out in advance, a quick fix is to place cold eggs in warm water for a few minutes.

When measuring your flour and cocoa powder, use the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the container. This prevents your cupcakes from becoming dense, as using too much flour can lead to a heavier texture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Vanilla Bean Chocolate Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they’ll stay good for about a week. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing your cupcakes with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries. These simple additions can enhance the visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor, making them even more irresistible for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

→ How can I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.