Pork-Themed Chocolate-Stout Cupcakes with Maple-Bacon Frosting

Ingredients and Weight:

For the Cupcakes: - All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (185g) - Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g) - Baking cocoa: 1/2 cup (50g) - Baking powder: 1 teaspoon (5g) - Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) - Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) - Milk stout beer: 1 cup (240ml) - Butter, softened: 1/2 cup (113g) - Eggs: 2 large - Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml)

For the Maple-Bacon Frosting: - Cream cheese, softened: 8 ounces (226g) - Butter, softened: 4 ounces (113g) - Maple syrup: 1/2 cup (120ml) - Cooked bacon, crumbled: 1/2 cup (25g)

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 18-22 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

For the Cupcakes: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the stout, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. 4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix. 5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin liners.

For the Maple-Bacon Frosting: 1. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until softened and fluffy. 2. Add the maple syrup and continue beating until smooth and creamy. 3. Fold in the cooked bacon.

To Assemble: 1. Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, pipe the maple-bacon frosting on top. 2. Garnish with additional bacon crumbles, if desired.

Nutritional Information:

Per cupcake (without frosting): - Calories: 180 - Fat: 6g - Saturated Fat: 2g - Cholesterol: 40mg - Sodium: 120mg - Carbohydrates: 30g - Fiber: 1g - Sugar: 15g - Protein: 3g

Dish Characteristics:

• Moist and flavorful chocolate cupcakes with a stout beer flavor
• Creamy and sweet maple-bacon frosting with crispy bacon crumbles
• Perfect for any occasion, especially for those who love pork

User Comments:

• "These cupcakes were absolutely delicious! The chocolate and stout flavors balanced perfectly, and the maple-bacon frosting was the perfect complement."
• "I made these for a party and they were a huge hit. The guests raved about how unique and tasty they were."
• "These are my new favorite cupcakes! I love the combination of chocolate, stout, and bacon. They're so rich and decadent."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• For a stronger stout flavor, use a dark milk stout.
• To make the frosting ahead of time, refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and re-beat until smooth.
• If you don't have crumbled bacon, you can chop 4 slices of bacon and cook them in a skillet until crispy.