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Red Velvet Lava Cupcakes

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Decadent red velvet cupcakes with a gooey, melted chocolate center, these lava cupcakes are soft, rich, and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lava filling: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Chill for 30 minutes to thicken.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  4. Add the egg, vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  5. Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter. Spoon 1 teaspoon of chilled chocolate filling into the center, then cover with more batter.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted off-center comes out clean.
  7. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Don’t overbake to keep the lava center gooey.
  • Chilling the filling ensures it stays concentrated in the center during baking.
  • Use a piping bag or small scoop to fill and top cupcakes neatly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

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