Mess for Less

  • Crafts
    • Art
    • Winter Activities
    • Spring Activities
    • Summer Activities
    • Fall Recipes and Activities
  • Kids Activities
    • Baby and Toddler Activities
    • Preschool Activities
    • Sensory Activities
    • Fine Motor Skills Activities
    • Learning Activities
      • Science Activities
  • Family
    • Pets
    • Parenting
  • Shop
  • Breakfast Recipes
  • Lunch Recipes
  • Dinner Recipes
  • Dessert Recipes
  • Snack Recipes
  • Appetizers
  • Crock Pot Recipes
  • Cooking with Kids
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Summer Activities
  • Kids
  • Shop
  • Subscribe
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Summer Activities
    • Kids
    • Shop
    • Subscribe
  • ×
    Home » Updates

    Published: Jan 20, 2025 by Vicky · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

    23 shares
    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video
    Cupcakes adorned with swirled frosting and chocolate chips rest on a cooling rack, accompanied by the text Hot Chocolate Cupcakes and messforless.net.

    This Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe is the ultimate in easy desserts for winter. Moist chocolate cupcakes are topped with a fluffy marshmallow frosting, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips for that classic hot cocoa feel.

    These cupcakes are perfect for a winter party or an after-school treat. The entire family will love them because they are easy to make and delicious!

    Cupcakes adorned with swirled frosting and chocolate chips rest on a cooling rack, accompanied by the text Hot Chocolate Cupcakes and messforless.net.
    Jump to:
    • Hot Cocoa Cupcakes
    • Ingredients For Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe
    • Cupcake Recipes
    • How to Make Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe
    • Tips for Making Hot Cocoa Cupcake Recipe
    • FAQS For Hot Chocolate Cupcakes With Marshmallow Frosting
    • Recipes Made With Marshmallows
    • Cupcake Kitchen Tools
    • Hot Cocoa Recipes
    • 📖 Recipe

    These hot cocoa treats look great and taste even better, so you can make them for holiday parties, bake sales, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth on a chilly day.

    Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

    If you love hot chocolate, this recipe is for you. It has all the yummy flavors you have come to expect from that classic winter beverage. These cupcakes are great for winter gatherings or just when you want something special to enjoy at home.

    You'll love how you don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients to make these cupcakes. Plus, the adorable topping with marshmallows and chocolate chips makes it fun for kids to help make.

    Hot Chocolate Cupcakes with cream frosting topped with chocolate chips are displayed on a table beside a steaming mug of hot chocolate adorned with marshmallows. One cupcake, sliced open to reveal its rich interior, sits invitingly on a black plate alongside a fork, tempting you to try this delightful recipe.

    Ingredients For Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

    • Butter: Keeps the cupcakes soft and is also used to make the frosting.
    • Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes.
    • Vanilla: Adds warmth to both the cupcakes and frosting.
    • Egg whites: Make the cupcakes light and fluffy.
    • Baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise evenly.
    • Flour: Provides structure for cupcakes.
    • Hot cocoa powder: Brings the classic flavor of hot chocolate to the cupcake batter.
    • Milk: Adds moisture.
    • Marshmallow cream: Gives the frosting a light and fluffy texture.
    • Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it too dense.
    • Salt: To balance the sweetness of the frosting.
    ingredients for hot chocolate cupcakes recipe

    Cupcake Recipes

    Craving something sweet? These cupcake recipes are super fun and easy to make! They are great for any occasion and simple to prepare. Whether you want something to bake with the kids or want a treat for a party, you’ll love these tasty cupcakes!

    • Rainbow Cupcakes
    • Oreo Cupcakes
    • Citrus Cupcakes
    • Mermaid Birthday Party Cupcakes

    How to Make Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

    Preheat your oven and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Cream the butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then mix in the egg whites one at a time, scraping the bowl frequently.

    A metal mixing bowl with two sticks of butter and a mound of white sugar awaits on the marble countertop, ready to begin a delightful cupcake recipe.
    A metal mixing bowl on a marble countertop contains partially mixed yellow cake batter, hinting at the start of a delightful recipe, perhaps evolving into a creation as indulgent as hot chocolate cupcakes.

    Add the dry ingredients gradually, alternating with milk to create a smooth, lump-free batter. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about halfway.

    A mixing bowl brimming with creamy, brown cookie dough sits invitingly on the marble surface, its rich aroma hinting at sweet recipes perfect for cupcakes or paired delightfully with a mug of hot chocolate.
    Muffin tin with twelve paper liners filled with rich, brown batter on a marble surface, ready for baking the perfect hot chocolate cupcakes.

    Bake until the cupcakes are set and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely before frosting.

    For the frosting, beat the butter with vanilla, salt, and part of the powdered sugar. Add the marshmallow cream and mix until smooth. Finish with the remaining sugar and milk, whipping until light and fluffy.

    hot cocoa cupcakes cooling on cooling rack
    marshmallow cream frosting in bowl

    Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and garnish with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips.

    Twelve frosted cupcakes with chocolate chips on top, arranged on a cooling rack over a marble surface, make for the perfect hot chocolate companion.

    Tips for Making Hot Cocoa Cupcake Recipe

    Tip 1: Let the cupcakes cool completely before you frost them, or the frosting will melt.

    Tip 2: Take care not to overfill the liners. Filling them only halfway prevents the batter from spilling over the edges.

    Tip 3: If the frosting is too soft, chill it in the fridge for 10 minutes before piping it onto the cupcakes.

    Close-up of a bitten cupcake with cream frosting on a black plate, surrounded by other hot chocolate cupcakes. A fork rests nearby, and in the background, a blurred glass of rich cocoa drink complements the scene perfectly.

    FAQS For Hot Chocolate Cupcakes With Marshmallow Frosting

    How do I store Hot Chocolate Cupcakes?

    Store these cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the best flavor and texture, let them come to room temperature before you serve them.

    Can I make cupcakes ahead of time?

    Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Don't frost them until the day you plan to serve them.

    Can I use a different frosting?

    Marshmallow frosting really complements the hot chocolate flavor, but you can use chocolate buttercream, whipped cream, or even cream cheese frosting if you prefer.

    Recipes Made With Marshmallows

    If you’re a fan of marshmallows, you’re in for a treat! From gooey desserts to fun snacks, there are so many fun ways to use them when cooking. Check out some of our favorite marshmallow-filled ideas below:

    • Marshmallow Fluff Fruit Dip with Cream Cheese
    • Marshmallow Fruit Salad
    • Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Marshmallow Cream Filling
    • Marshmallow Fluff

    Cupcake Kitchen Tools

    To make these cupcakes, you’ll need a stand or hand mixer for perfectly blended batter and a muffin tin with liners. Measuring bowls and cups are also essential. If you’re missing any of these items, you can easily find many options on Amazon.

    KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Blue VelvetKitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Blue VelvetKitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Blue VelvetBRONYPRO Silicone Muffin Pan with Metal Frame, Egg Bite Molds for Baking, Cupcake Pans 12 Regular Size, Muffin Tins Easy to Pop Nonstick Non Toxic Bakeware for Oven,BlueBRONYPRO Silicone Muffin Pan with Metal Frame, Egg Bite Molds for Baking, Cupcake Pans 12 Regular Size, Muffin Tins Easy to Pop Nonstick Non Toxic Bakeware for Oven,BlueBRONYPRO Silicone Muffin Pan with Metal Frame, Egg Bite Molds for Baking, Cupcake Pans 12 Regular Size, Muffin Tins Easy to Pop Nonstick Non Toxic Bakeware for Oven,BlueNordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Muffin Pan, 12 CupNordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Muffin Pan, 12 CupNordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Muffin Pan, 12 Cup200pcs White Standard Cupcake Liners for Baking Cup, No Smell, Grease-proof Muffin Liners, Standard Size Cupcake Cups for Party, Wedding, Birthday200pcs White Standard Cupcake Liners for Baking Cup, No Smell, Grease-proof Muffin Liners, Standard Size Cupcake Cups for Party, Wedding, Birthday200pcs White Standard Cupcake Liners for Baking Cup, No Smell, Grease-proof Muffin Liners, Standard Size Cupcake Cups for Party, Wedding, BirthdayMetahom Ceramic Mixing Bowls for Kitchen, Colorful Nesting Bowls, Large Serving Bowls for Prepping, Baking, Mixing, Salad, Microwave Dishwasher Safe, 3.7/2.3/1.4 Qt, Set of 3Metahom Ceramic Mixing Bowls for Kitchen, Colorful Nesting Bowls, Large Serving Bowls for Prepping, Baking, Mixing, Salad, Microwave Dishwasher Safe, 3.7/2.3/1.4 Qt, Set of 3Metahom Ceramic Mixing Bowls for Kitchen, Colorful Nesting Bowls, Large Serving Bowls for Prepping, Baking, Mixing, Salad, Microwave Dishwasher Safe, 3.7/2.3/1.4 Qt, Set of 3Rose Gold Stainless Steel Handle Measuring Cups and Spoons Set, 8 Piece Stackable Accurate Tablespoon for Measuring Dry and Liquid Ingredients Small Teaspoon with Plastic Head (Pink)Rose Gold Stainless Steel Handle Measuring Cups and Spoons Set, 8 Piece Stackable Accurate Tablespoon for Measuring Dry and Liquid Ingredients Small Teaspoon with Plastic Head (Pink)Rose Gold Stainless Steel Handle Measuring Cups and Spoons Set, 8 Piece Stackable Accurate Tablespoon for Measuring Dry and Liquid Ingredients Small Teaspoon with Plastic Head (Pink)

     

    This Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe is an easy way to bring the warmth of hot cocoa into a dessert. Enjoy these while sitting by a fire on a cold winter's day.

    Hot Cocoa Recipes

    • M&M Hot Chocolate Bomb Recipe
    • Valentine’s Hot Chocolate Bombs
    • Pink DIY Hot Chocolate Bombs
    • Minnie Mouse Hot Cocoa Bombs

    📖 Recipe

    Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

    Vicky
    Rich, chocolatey cupcakes made with cocoa powder are topped with a fluffy marshmallow cream frosting for the perfect cozy treat. These cupcakes are simple to make and topped with fun decorations like mini marshmallows and chocolate chips.
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 20 minutes mins
    Cook Time 16 minutes mins
    Cooling time 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 1 hour hr 6 minutes mins
    Course Cupcakes
    Cuisine American
    Servings 24
    Calories 348 kcal

    Video

    Ingredients
      

    Cupcakes

    • ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
    • 1 ¾ cups sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 6 egg whites
    • 4 teaspoons baking powder
    • 2 ¼ cups flour
    • ¾ cup hot cocoa powder can use the kind found in envelopes of a hot chocolate mix.
    • 1 cup milk

    Frosting

    • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
    • 4 cups powdered sugar
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 7 oz marshmallow cream
    • 2 tablespoons milk

    Instructions
     

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two standard muffin tins with cupcake liners.
    • In a stand mixer, cream the butter, sugar, and vanilla together until smooth.
    • Add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape the bowl as needed.
    • Mix in the flour, hot cocoa powder, and baking powder until just combined. Gradually add the milk and mix until the batter is smooth.
    • Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about halfway.
    • Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely.
    • To make the frosting, cream the butter, salt, vanilla, and half the powdered sugar on low speed in a stand mixer until combined. Increase speed and mix until smooth.
    • Add the marshmallow cream and mix until fully incorporated. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
    • Mix in the remaining powdered sugar and milk, starting on low speed and increasing to whip the frosting until light and fluffy.
    • Transfer frosting to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe swirls onto the cooled cupcakes.
    • Garnish with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, if desired.

    Notes

    • Make sure the cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting, or you’ll end up with a melty mess.
    • Don’t overfill the liners - halfway is perfect to keep the batter from spilling over.
    • If your frosting feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up before piping.
    Nutritional information is estimated and may vary depending on the ingredients you use, how you prepare the recipe, and portion sizes. Use this as a general guide rather than a precise calculation.
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 348kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 114mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 42gVitamin A: 433IUCalcium: 53mgIron: 1mg
    Keyword Hot Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    More Updates

    • keto chicken nuggets
      Keto Chicken Nuggets
    • Instant Pot Recipes
      Instant Pot Recipes
    • Ground Beef and Noodle Soup
      Ground Beef and Noodle Soup
    • summer activities for kids
      Summer Activities for Kids

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Vicky from Mess for Less

    I'm Vicky, the founder of Mess For Less, which I started in 2011 to share easy, family-friendly recipes. With over a decade of experience as a home chef and recipe developer, I love creating meals that bring people together. I also design play and learning activities for kids, using my background as a former teacher with a Master’s degree in education. Learn more about me.

    Summer

    • Summer Art Activities for Kids
    • Free Printable Summer Placemats
    • Best Outdoor Toys for Summer
      The 20 Best Outdoor Toys for Summer
    • SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOLERS
      20 Summer Activities for Preschoolers

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy and Disclosure
    • Recipe and Safety Disclaimers
    • About Me
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for our newsletter

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Advertise

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 MessForLess

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required