Coffee Cupcakes

Coffee cupcakes are a perfect blend of sweetness and the lively note of coffee. Here’s a version with an Italian touch, thanks to the use of an aromatic mascarpone cream for the filling.

Ingredients for the cupcakes:

• 150 g of all-purpose flour
• 150 g of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• 2 large eggs
• 120 ml of vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
• 120 ml of cold espresso coffee

Ingredients for the mascarpone cream:

• 250 g of mascarpone
• 100 g of powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon of cold espresso coffee
• Cocoa powder for decoration

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (347°F) and prepare a baking tray with cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with the oil and vanilla extract until you get a smooth mixture.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the espresso coffee, until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
5. Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 of their height and bake for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cupcakes cool completely before decorating.

For the mascarpone cream:

1. In a bowl, beat the mascarpone with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the tablespoon of espresso coffee and mix well.

To assemble the cupcakes:

1. When the cupcakes are cool, use a piping bag with a star tip to decorate the cupcakes with the mascarpone cream.
2. Sprinkle a light veil of cocoa powder over the cream for an additional flavor note and decorative effect.

Curiosity

Coffee is a beverage loved all over the world, but in Italy, it plays an important cultural role, often associated with moments of break and conviviality. The mascarpone cream adds a creamy and rich touch that makes these cupcakes a real treat for the palate.