Lets Enjoy Chocolate Cherry Cordial Cupcakes!
Chocolate cherry cordial cupcakes are a luxurious dessert inspired by the classic cherry cordial candy.
These cupcakes feature a rich chocolate base, a sweet cherry center, and a smooth, cherry-flavored buttercream on top.
Ideal for holidays, parties, or when you’re craving an awsome treat, this recipe combines the deep flavor of cocoa with the sweetness of cherries in perfect harmony.
Prep & Cooking Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mins | 18-20 mins | 40 mins | Dessert | American | 12 |
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Alternatives |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Almond flour for low-carb version |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1/3 cup | Dutch-processed cocoa |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | – |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp | – |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | – |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup | Coconut sugar or erythritol |
| Egg | 1 large | Flax egg |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Almond milk, oat milk |
| Vegetable oil | 1/3 cup | Melted butter, coconut oil |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Almond extract (for twist) |
| Cherry juice | 1/4 cup | Maraschino cherry syrup |
| Maraschino cherries (whole) | 12 | Fresh pitted cherries |
For the buttercream:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Alternatives |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup | Plant-based butter |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups | Powdered erythritol (for keto) |
| Cherry juice | 2-3 tbsp | Heavy cream with cherry extract |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp | – |
Instruments Needed
| Instrument | Alternative |
| Muffin tin | Silicone muffin tray |
| Cupcake liners | Parchment paper squares |
| Electric mixer | Hand whisk + elbow grease |
| Mixing bowls | Any large container |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Digital kitchen scale |
| Cooling rack | Plate with paper towels |
| Piping bag | Ziploc bag with cut corner |
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cordial Cupcakes
Before diving into the steps, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps with even mixing and ensures smooth batter and buttercream.
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/3 cup of cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt.
In a separate bowl, beat 1 large egg with 3/4 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/3 cup of oil, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of cherry juice.
Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms. Do not overmix.
Step 2: Fill the Liners
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners. Fill each about halfway with batter.
Gently place one whole maraschino cherry into the center of each cup and top off with more batter until the liners are two-thirds full.
Step 3: Bake
Place the tin in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edge (not through the cherry) comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 4: Make the Cherry Buttercream
Using an electric mixer, beat 1/2 cup softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, followed by 2-3 tbsp cherry juice and 1/2 tsp vanilla. Beat until fluffy. Add more cherry juice for a stronger flavor or to thin the consistency slightly.
Step 5: Decorate
Once cupcakes are completely cool, pipe the cherry buttercream on top using a piping bag. Garnish with a cherry or a drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired.
Serving and Decoration Tips
- Serve with a fork for a refined dessert experience.
- Garnish with grated chocolate or gold sugar sprinkles for a festive look.
- A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the frosting adds elegance and contrast.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes: Add a layer of cheesecake filling (cream cheese, sugar, and egg) beneath the batter before baking.
- Double Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes: Stir 1/4 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for extra richness.
- Cherry Almond Cupcakes: Replace vanilla with almond extract and use chopped almonds in the batter.
- Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting: Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and cherry juice instead of butter for a tangy twist.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
| Mistake | Solution |
| Cherries sink to bottom | Place cherry after pouring half the batter |
| Buttercream too runny | Add more powdered sugar or chill briefly |
| Cupcakes too dense | Don’t overmix the batter |
| Dry cupcakes | Measure flour properly, avoid overbaking |
Storing Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
- Refrigerate if frosted with cream cheese for up to 5 days.
- Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
These chocolate cherry cordial cupcakes are a fun and indulgent way to bring dessert and nostalgia together.
The rich cocoa flavor paired with the sweet cherry surprise makes each bite memorable.
Try baking these at home and let us know how your version turns out in the comments!
