Black Forest Cupcakes

Cherry Cupcakes - a delicacy that combines the flavor of fruit with the sweetness of chocolate

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12 cupcakes

Who can resist fluffy cupcakes with fresh cherries and a decadent topping of whipped cream and chocolate? These delicious treats are not just a simple dessert, but an explosion of flavors that will fill your heart with joy. Today's recipe is based on a classic cupcake recipe, but with a delicious twist – cherries! Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

A brief history

Cupcakes, also known as muffins or fairy cakes, emerged in the 18th century in America. These small cakes quickly gained popularity due to their versatility. Whether plain or decorated with various ingredients, cupcakes have found a place in the hearts and on the tables of many dessert lovers. Today, we will transform them into a cherry variant, bringing a touch of freshness and a perfect contrast between the sweet and tart flavors of these fruits.

Ingredients

For the cupcakes:
- 3 eggs
- 10 tablespoons of sugar
- 7 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 12 tablespoons of flour
- 200 ml of milk or yogurt (for a richer texture, yogurt is an excellent choice)
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 200 g of fresh cherries (or canned/frozen)

For the syrup:
- 100 ml of water
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 vial of rum essence (for a sublime aroma)

For decoration:
- 300 ml of natural whipped cream (I used Sanlacta cream, which whips easily and has an exceptional taste)
- Dark chocolate (for decoration)
- Cherries (for a splash of color and freshness)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by ensuring that all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a uniform texture in the batter.

Step 2: Preparing the batter

In a large bowl, crack the 3 eggs and add the sugar and vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved and the composition becomes fluffy. Then, add the oil and continue mixing to incorporate all the ingredients.

Step 3: Integrating the dry ingredients

In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. It is important to sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps in the batter. Now, add the dry ingredients mixture to the bowl with eggs, alternating with the milk or yogurt. Mix gently with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until you obtain a homogeneous batter. Be careful, the batter should not be too fluid; if it is too thin, add another tablespoon of flour, and if it is too thick, add a little milk.

Step 4: Adding the cherries

Wash the cherries and remove the pits, if necessary. Gently fold them into the batter, being careful not to crush them too much, so as not to color the entire mixture.

Step 5: Baking the cupcakes

Prepare the muffin tray with specific paper liners. Fill each mold about 2/3 full with batter, then add 3-4 cherries into each. Now, place the tray in the preheated oven at 180°C and let them bake for 30-35 minutes. Check if they are baked using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cupcakes are ready.

Step 6: Preparing the syrup

Meanwhile, prepare a simple syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar and bring to a boil. Once the sugar has completely dissolved, add the rum essence and let the syrup cool.

Step 7: Decorating

After the cupcakes have cooled, use a brush to glaze them with the cooled syrup so that they absorb the sweet, fragrant aroma. Whip the cream until firm and use it to decorate each cupcake. You can add grated chocolate on top and, of course, a cherry for an elegant look.

Serving suggestions

These cherry cupcakes are perfect for a party, a gathering with friends, or simply for a treat. Serve them alongside a cup of fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee. Additionally, for a pleasant contrast, you can add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream alongside the cupcakes.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can replace the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. You can also add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned cherries?
Yes, canned cherries are an excellent choice, but make sure to drain them well before adding them to the batter.

2. How can I keep the cupcakes fresh?
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

3. What can I do with leftover batter?
You can make mini cupcakes or muffins from the leftover batter, adjusting the baking time.

Nutritional benefits

These cherry cupcakes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to strengthening the immune system and maintaining heart health. Additionally, using yogurt instead of milk adds probiotics, essential for healthy digestion.

Conclusion

These cherry cupcakes are a perfect choice for any occasion. With a fluffy texture, an intense cherry flavor, and an attractive decoration, these treats will surely become your favorites. Don’t hesitate to try them and personalize them to your taste. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create something unique and delicious! Enjoy!