Mocha Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream
If you’re a coffee lover, these Mocha Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream are going to be your new obsession. Imagine rich, chocolatey cupcakes infused with just the right amount of coffee flavor, topped with a silky, creamy buttercream that tastes like your favorite latte. They’re the perfect balance of bold and sweet trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cupcakes are guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Why You’ll Love Mocha Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or as a special treat for your morning coffee break.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like cocoa, coffee, and butter without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: The batter and frosting come together in no time, even for novice bakers.
Customizable: Swap in different extracts, add chocolate chips, or drizzle with caramel for a twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Mocha Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream
Here’s the magic of these mocha cupcakes they’re simple to make, yet so impressive:
Flour: Creates the perfect structure for the cupcakes.
Cocoa Powder: Gives them that deep, rich chocolate flavor.
Sugar: Sweetens and balances the bold coffee notes.
Eggs: Add moisture and structure.
Butter or Oil: Keeps the cupcakes tender and soft.
Strong Brewed Coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds that irresistible coffee kick.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Ensure a beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and a warm aroma.
Buttercream Frosting: A creamy mix of butter, powdered sugar, and coffee to top the cupcakes with perfection.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. In another bowl, mix the eggs, melted butter, coffee, and vanilla until smooth.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Assemble the Dish: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Finishing Touches: Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
Make the Coffee Buttercream: Beat butter until light and fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar and brewed coffee until creamy.
Serve and Enjoy: Pipe or spread the coffee buttercream generously over each cupcake and enjoy with a big smile (and maybe a cup of coffee).
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 310
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Mocha Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream
These cupcakes are a dessert table dream! Serve them as the centerpiece of a birthday party, at brunch with friends, or as an afternoon pick-me-up with a hot cup of coffee. They’re also a perfect treat to box up and share with coworkers or neighbors.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and frosting.
Brew a strong cup of coffee for the best flavor (espresso works, too).
If you want a richer taste, use dark cocoa powder.
Chill the cupcakes for a few minutes before frosting if your kitchen is warm.
Top with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel for a bakery-style finish.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make these cupcakes without coffee? Yes, just replace the coffee with milk, but you’ll lose the mocha flavor.
2. Can I use instant coffee in the batter? Absolutely! Dissolve it in hot water first for a strong coffee flavor.
3. How do I store the frosted cupcakes? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
4. Can I freeze the cupcakes? Yes! Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months and frost after thawing.
5. Can I make these gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to easily adapt this recipe.
6. What’s the best way to make the buttercream extra fluffy? Beat the butter for several minutes before adding the sugar to incorporate more air.
7. Can I substitute espresso for brewed coffee? Yes, just make sure to cool it before adding to the batter or frosting.
8. How can I make the coffee flavor stronger? Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the buttercream for a bold flavor.
9. Do I need a piping bag for frosting? No, you can spread the buttercream with a knife or spatula if you prefer.
10. Can I add chocolate chips? Definitely! Fold in a half cup of mini chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.
CONCLUSION
Mocha Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream are everything you could want in a dessert moist, flavorful, and topped with the dreamiest frosting. They’re perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to satisfy your coffee and chocolate cravings in one bite. Once you make these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. So brew that coffee and get baking your new favorite cupcake recipe is here!
Print
Mocha Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich and decadent mocha cupcakes infused with coffee and chocolate, topped with a silky coffee buttercream. These indulgent treats are perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee (cooled)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- Coffee Buttercream: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 3 cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons brewed coffee (cooled), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla.
- Mix the coffee and milk together. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the coffee-milk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
- To make the buttercream: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well. Add brewed coffee, vanilla, and salt, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Pipe or spread the coffee buttercream onto cooled cupcakes and enjoy.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to the cupcake batter.
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the buttercream.
- Top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for decoration.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: mocha cupcakes, coffee buttercream, chocolate cupcakes, coffee dessert, cupcake recipe