Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Chocolate Cream Cheese Surprise Cupcakes?
They are rich chocolate cupcakes featuring a creamy cheese 'surprise' center, often referred to as 'black bottom' cupcakes.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This is a treasured vintage recipe that originated in the 1970s and has been enjoyed across generations.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
What type of cupcake pans are recommended?
This recipe is designed for miniature cupcake pans lined with paper liners.
How do I prepare the cream cheese for the filling?
The 8 ounces of cream cheese should be softened before mixing.
What ingredients go into the cream cheese filling?
The filling consists of softened cream cheese, one beaten egg, 1/3 cup of sugar, a pinch of salt, and 6 ounces of chocolate chips.
When do I add the chocolate chips?
Gently fold the chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture after it has been beaten until smooth.
How should I mix the dry ingredients for the chocolate batter?
Sift together 1.5 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
What wet ingredients are needed for the batter?
The wet ingredients include 1 cup water, 1/3 cup cooking oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
Is there a specific oil recommended for this recipe?
Extra Light Olive Oil is the preferred choice for the cooking oil in the batter.
How do I combine the wet and dry batter ingredients?
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry while beating on low speed for one minute, then increase to medium for another minute.
What is the consistency of the chocolate batter?
The resulting chocolate batter may appear slightly thin, which is normal for this recipe.
How much batter should I put in each cupcake liner?
Fill the lined miniature cupcake pans halfway with the chocolate batter.
How do I incorporate the cream cheese filling into the cupcakes?
Add approximately 1 teaspoon of the prepared cream cheese filling into the center of each batter-filled cupcake liner.
How long do the cupcakes need to bake?
Bake the cupcakes for approximately 20 minutes.
How can I tell if the cupcakes are finished baking?
The cupcakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the chocolate portion comes out clean.
Should I serve the cupcakes warm?
It is recommended to cool the cupcakes completely before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Are these cupcakes suitable for children?
Yes, they are described as a kid-friendly favorite due to their sweet and creamy surprise center.
What type of cocoa powder should be used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder.
What type of vinegar is used in the chocolate batter?
One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar is used to help the batter rise.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 14 total ingredients required for these cupcakes.
How much flour is needed for the batter?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of flour.
How much sugar is used in total?
The recipe uses 1 1/3 cups of sugar in total: 1/3 cup for the filling and 1 cup for the batter.
Is salt used in both the filling and the batter?
Yes, a pinch of salt is used in the filling and 1/2 teaspoon is used in the chocolate batter.
How much baking soda is required?
One teaspoon of baking soda is needed for the dry ingredient mixture.
Do I need to beat the egg before adding it?
Yes, the recipe specifies using one beaten egg for the cream cheese filling.
Can these be served at parties?
Absolutely, they are ideal for parties, family gatherings, or as a special indulgent treat.
What is the flavor balance of these cupcakes?
They offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate cocoa and creamy sweetness from the cream cheese and chips.
How much vanilla is added to the recipe?
One teaspoon of vanilla is added to the wet ingredients of the chocolate batter.
How much water is needed for the chocolate mixture?
The recipe requires 1 cup of water for the wet ingredient component.