Cinco de Chili Chocolate Cupcakes with Chili Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients and Weight:

For the Cupcakes: * All-purpose flour: 1 3/4 cups (218g) * Unsweetened cocoa powder: 3/4 cup (93g) * Baking powder: 2 teaspoons * Baking soda: 1 teaspoon * Salt: 1/2 teaspoon * Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g) * Brown sugar: 1/2 cup (100g) * Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup (120ml) * Large eggs: 2 * Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon * Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml) * Chipotle chili powder: 1 tablespoon

For the Chili Cream Cheese Frosting: * Cream cheese, softened: 8 ounces (227g) * Unsalted butter, softened: 4 tablespoons (57g) * Confectioners' sugar: 3 cups (360g) * Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon * Chipotle chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 18-22 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

For the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Do not overmix.
5. Stir in the chili powder.
6. Fill the prepared muffin cups about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Chili Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the chili powder.

To Assemble:

1. Pipe or spread the chili cream cheese frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
2. Garnish with a dusting of cocoa powder (optional).

Nutritional Information:

• Calories per cupcake: 350
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Rich, chocolatey cupcakes with a subtle kick of chili powder
• Creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting with a hint of spice
• Perfect for a Cinco de Mayo themed party or any occasion where you want a unique and flavorful dessert

User Comments:

• "These cupcakes are amazing! The chocolate and chili combination is so unexpected but it works so well."
• "The frosting is the perfect balance of sweetness and spice."
• "These cupcakes were a hit at my Cinco de Mayo party!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in tough cupcakes.
• Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk.