Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the hot water, cocoa powder, and instant coffee. Set this aside to cool.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, whip together the butter and sugar for 2-3 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring full incorporation before adding the next.
- Add the buttermilk, vanilla, and almond extracts, mixing for another 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually mix in half of the cocoa mixture and half of the dry ingredients, followed by the remaining cocoa and flour.
Baking
- Fill each muffin well about ⅔ full with batter, then bake for 14-16 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Frosting Preparation
- Whip together the softened butter, powdered sugar, Nutella, and vanilla until fluffy and creamy.
- Transfer frosting to a piping bag and chill while cupcakes cool completely.
Assembly
- Core each cupcake, filling with about 1 teaspoon of Nutella.
- Pipe the Nutella frosting on top, sprinkle with hazelnuts, and drizzle with chocolate sauce.
Notes
For a richer chocolate flavor, try using dark cocoa powder. Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Experiment with different extracts or mini chocolate chips for variations.
