Name: Malted Milk Chocolate Cupcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup malted milk powder; 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped; ¾ cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); ½ cup vegetable or canola oil; 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature; 3 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 12 ounces milk chocolate, finely chopped; 1 cup malted milk powder; 1 cup heavy cream; ¾ cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, at room temperature

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There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the combination of malt and chocolate. These Malted Milk Chocolate Cupcakes are not just a treat for the taste buds; they evoke fond memories of childhood favorites while delivering a sophisticated twist that makes them perfect for any occasion. With rich chocolate and a delightful malt flavor, these cupcakes are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a birthday party, a casual get-together, or simply a Wednesday afternoon, these cupcakes will elevate your baking game to a whole new level!

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about Malted Milk Chocolate Cupcakes? They are moist, decadent, and bursting with flavor. The malted milk powder adds a unique depth to the chocolate, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make! This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with the rich chocolate flavor complemented by the sweet, malty undertones. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that makes you want to reach for another cupcake immediately.

Gather These Ingredients

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – The base of our cupcakes, providing structure and stability.
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar – For sweetness and moisture, making our cupcakes delightfully tender.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Our leavening agent, ensuring fluffy cupcakes that rise beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt – To enhance flavors and balance the sweetness.
1 cup (125g) malted milk powder – Adds that signature malty flavor and creaminess.
6 ounces (170.1g) unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped – For a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
¾ cup (113.5g) unsalted butter – Helps create a moist texture; make sure it’s at room temperature!
½ cup (56ml) vegetable or canola oil – Adds additional moisture and richness to the cupcakes.
1 cup (427ml) whole milk, at room temperature – For a smooth batter and tender crumb.
3 eggs, at room temperature – To bind the ingredients and create a fluffy texture.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
12 ounces (340.2g) milk chocolate, finely chopped – For a luscious ganache topping.
1 cup (125g) malted milk powder – Used again for the ganache, enhancing the flavor.
1 cup (238ml) heavy cream – For a rich and creamy ganache.
¾ cup (113.5g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, at room temperature – To enrich the ganache.

Prep & Cook Tools

Mixing Bowls – Use for combining dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk – Essential for mixing the batter until smooth.
Rubber Spatula – Perfect for folding in ingredients gently.
Muffin Tin – To bake the cupcakes; make sure to line it with cupcake liners.
Cooling Rack – For cooling the cupcakes once baked.
Double Boiler or Microwave – For melting chocolate for the ganache.

Make Malted Milk Chocolate Cupcakes: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This not only makes for easy cleanup but also adds a lovely presentation to your cupcakes.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and malted milk powder until well combined. This step is crucial to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler or microwave, melt the finely chopped unsweetened chocolate with the unsalted butter until smooth. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients and mix until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and gently fold them together using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; stop when there are just a few streaks of flour remaining.

Step 7: Fill the Muffin Tin

Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about two-thirds full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cupcakes

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Ganache

While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the ganache. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the finely chopped milk chocolate and malted milk powder. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Add the butter and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 11: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each one with the malted milk chocolate ganache. You can use a piping bag for a professional touch or simply spread it on with a spatula.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

For Fall: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
For Winter: Top with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
For Spring: Incorporate lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing twist.
For Summer: Add fresh berries on top of the ganache for a fruity contrast.

If You’re Curious

Wondering about variations? You can easily turn these Malted Milk Chocolate Cupcakes into a layer cake! Simply double the batter and bake in two 9-inch round cake pans. Adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate—dark chocolate will give you a richer flavor, while white chocolate can add sweetness.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

These Malted Milk Chocolate Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost as desired!

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my cupcakes are dry?

Dry cupcakes can result from overmixing the batter or baking them for too long. Make sure to mix just until combined and keep an eye on them while baking to avoid overcooking.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can substitute the unsweetened chocolate with dark or semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar in the recipe if using sweeter chocolate.

How can I tell if my cupcakes are done?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, they need more time in the oven.

What can I do if my ganache is too thick?

If your ganache turns out too thick, you can gently reheat it over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. Adding a splash of heavy cream can also help loosen it up.

The Last Word

These Malted Milk Chocolate Cupcakes are the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence. With their moist texture and rich, malty flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cupcakes will bring smiles and satisfaction. So, roll up your sleeves and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!