Nutella Cupcakes Recipe

If you have a sweet spot for rich, chocolatey treats and creamy hazelnut goodness, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Nutella Cupcakes. They are moist chocolate cupcakes filled with luscious Nutella right in the center, topped off with a dreamy Nutella Buttercream that’s silky and smooth. Perfect for celebrations, cozy afternoons, or whenever you want to treat yourself, these Nutella Cupcakes balance indulgence and simplicity in the most delightful way. Let me walk you through making these irresistible gems that will definitely become your new favorite dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem straightforward but they’re the magic behind the perfect texture, flavor, and that beautiful crumb you want in every bite. Each element plays a crucial role, from the richness of cocoa powder to the moisture from milk and oil, then finishing with that intense coffee note to enhance the chocolate flavor.

• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides the structure and body for the cupcakes.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cupcakes while helping create a tender crumb.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers deep chocolate flavor; use natural or Dutch-processed.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cupcakes rise perfectly.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Works alongside baking powder for balanced leavening.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances all the flavors without making the cupcakes salty.
• Large egg (1): Adds richness and binds the ingredients together.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Provides moisture and softness to the batter.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender; canola oil works great.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
• Brewed coffee or hot water (1/2 cup): Intensifies the chocolate taste without overpowering.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, room temperature): Essential for the creamy, luscious Nutella Buttercream.
• Nutella (2/3 cup + 3/4 cup total): Core ingredient lending signature hazelnut chocolate flavor inside and on top.
• Powdered sugar (3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the buttercream to perfection.
• Cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Adds extra chocolate richness to the frosting.
• Heavy cream (3 tbsp): Creates a light, silky texture in the buttercream.
• Hazelnuts (14 pieces): Decorative and adds a satisfying crunch.

How to Make Nutella Cupcakes

Step 1: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

Start by sifting together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Sifting not only combines them well but also helps keep the cupcakes light and fluffy, which is exactly what you want for a soft bite.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk the egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. The egg will give structure, the milk adds moisture, and the oil ensures the cupcakes stay tender and moist long after baking.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients over the sifted dry ingredients and whisk just until combined. Then, gently fold in the hot brewed coffee or water. The batter will seem very liquidy; that’s perfect and what ensures these cupcakes stay exceptionally moist and chocolatey after baking.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Fill cupcake liners halfway with batter and bake in a 350ºF preheated oven for about 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops spring back to a gentle touch or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely before moving on to the delicious finishing touches.

Step 5: Making the Nutella Buttercream

Beat your room-temperature butter for about 2 minutes until soft and creamy. Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, Nutella, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Start mixing slowly to avoid a powdery mess, then crank up the speed and beat until fluffy and smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar if it’s too runny or a little more heavy cream if it’s too stiff.

Step 6: Filling and Frosting

Core out the center of each cooled cupcake using an apple corer or spoon, and fill the hollow with Nutella. Then, pipe the Nutella Buttercream generously on top. For a pretty touch, pipe a ring of frosting around the edge, fill the center with more Nutella, and finish with a whole hazelnut and some chopped nuts on top.

How to Serve Nutella Cupcakes

Garnishes

Adding a simple whole hazelnut on each cupcake brings a lovely crunch and visual appeal while reinforcing that irresistible hazelnut flavor. You can also sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts or even dust a touch of extra cocoa or powdered sugar for a pretty finish that invites one more bite.

Side Dishes

Nutella Cupcakes are rich enough to be served solo, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh berry compote balances the flavors wonderfully. Whether it’s a light dollop of whipped cream or a warm cup of coffee, these sides elevate the experience without overshadowing these delectable treats.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, arrange the cupcakes on a tiered platter during parties or drizzle some melted chocolate over the frosting for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also wrap them individually in clear cellophane with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, store your Nutella Cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 4 days, preserving the freshness of the frosting and the moist texture of the cupcakes. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze Nutella Cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 1 to 2 months without losing any of their magic. Freeze them assembled with frosting or freeze the cupcakes and buttercream separately if you want to pipe fresh frosting later. Thaw overnight in the fridge for perfect enjoyment.

Reheating

Since these cupcakes are best served at room temperature, avoid microwaving if possible. Instead, allow them to sit out for 30 to 60 minutes after removing from the fridge or freezer to let the flavors and textures shine.

FAQs

Can I substitute coffee with something else?

Absolutely! If you’re not a coffee fan, hot water works just as well to bring out the chocolate flavor without adding any bitterness or coffee aroma.

Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?

Yes, for this recipe, both work together to give the cupcakes their perfect rise and tender crumb, especially since the cocoa and milk influence acidity levels.

Can I make the Nutella Buttercream without heavy cream?

You could try substituting with milk, but heavy cream adds richness and the right silky texture that makes this frosting so dreamy. If you use milk, the frosting might be a bit less smooth.

How can I prevent the frosting from getting runny?

Make sure your butter is at room temperature, not too soft or melted. If your frosting is runny, simply add a little more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until it firms up.

What’s the best way to core the cupcakes?

An apple corer works perfectly for creating a neat hole to fill with Nutella. If you don’t have one, a small spoon or cupcake corer will also do the trick; just be gentle to keep the cupcake intact.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Nutella Cupcakes that feels like the ultimate comfort dessert. They bring together familiar flavors in a spectacular way that’s both impressive and absolutely doable in your own kitchen. I can’t wait for you to make these and experience that perfect moment of sinking your teeth into a moist, chocolatey cupcake bursting with Nutella, topped with the creamiest buttercream. Trust me, once you try these, Nutella Cupcakes will be on repeat for every celebration and sweet craving.