Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup fresh blackberries (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until combined.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Gently fold in the fresh blackberries and dark chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 8: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Once cooled, frost the cupcakes with your favorite chocolate or vanilla frosting and top with additional blackberries for decoration.

Tips & Variations

Use frozen blackberries if fresh ones are unavailable, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

For extra fudgy cupcakes, substitute half the all-purpose flour with almond flour.

Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Try cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the rich chocolate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw and drain frozen blackberries to remove excess moisture. This helps keep the batter from becoming too wet and the cupcakes from turning soggy.

Do I have to frost the cupcakes?

No, these cupcakes are delicious on their own thanks to the rich chocolate and fresh blackberries. Frosting adds extra sweetness and moisture but is optional based on your preference.