Let’s be real—Easter baking just got a whole lot cuter. If you’ve been dreaming of a way to combine two of the best things on Earth—chocolate and cupcakes—into one mouthwatering masterpiece, these Malteser Bunny Cupcakes are your answer! Picture it: light, fluffy cupcakes topped with rich, velvety chocolate buttercream, and of course, those adorable Malteser bunnies peeking out from the frosting. This is the kind of dessert that gets everyone talking and—trust me—you’re going to LOVE it. It’s fun to make, absolutely delicious, and it’s got that “wow” factor that’ll steal the spotlight at your Easter celebration.
You’ll be whipping these up in no time, and I promise, they’ll disappear just as quickly. So, grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the most irresistible Easter treat around!
Why You’ll Love Malteser Bunny Cupcakes
This isn’t just any cupcake—it’s a fluffy, chocolatey, malty dream that brings a big smile to your face with every bite. Here’s why this recipe will become your go-to for Easter (and beyond!):
Versatile
Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a fun Easter party, or just a cozy afternoon treat. These cupcakes work for every celebration or as a “just because” dessert.
Budget-Friendly
No need to spend a fortune at a bakery. This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. You get all the charm and flavor without the hefty price tag.
Quick and Easy
This recipe takes no time at all, and even if you’re not a pro baker, you’ll be able to pull these off with ease. It’s an absolute breeze to follow, with steps that anyone—beginners included—can handle.
Customizable
Want to add a little twist? You can switch out the Maltesers for your favorite chocolate or candy, making it easy to personalize. Or, add a splash of your favorite liqueur to the frosting for an extra flavor kick!
Crowd-Pleasing
There’s just something about these cupcakes that’s perfect for everyone—kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or just for a fun dessert with friends, these cupcakes will be a hit.
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Ingredients
Here’s the magic of these cupcakes—they’re easy to make but so impressive once they’re done. Trust me, you won’t believe how something so simple can taste this good. Let’s break it down:
For the Cupcakes:
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives these cupcakes the perfect light texture.
- Baking powder: To give them a nice rise and fluffiness.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The deep, rich chocolate flavor everyone craves.
- Salt: To balance out all that sweetness and bring out the flavors.
- Butter: Softened, to create a moist, tender crumb.
- Sugar: Sweetness that’s balanced perfectly with the cocoa.
- Eggs: Binding everything together for a light, fluffy texture.
- Vanilla extract: For that lovely warmth and depth of flavor.
- Milk: Adding moisture and keeping the cupcakes soft and tender.
For the Frosting:
- Butter: The creamy base for our decadent chocolate buttercream.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetness with that perfect frosting consistency.
- Cocoa powder: To get that rich chocolate flavor in the frosting.
- Milk: To adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Maltesers: For decorating (and eating, of course!)
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s get baking! Here’s how to bring these adorable cupcakes to life:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. The oven needs to be nice and hot so your cupcakes can bake to perfection!
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures your dry ingredients are well-mixed and evenly distributed. Set this aside for now.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this will give your cupcakes that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry ingredients and end with the milk. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—overmixing can make your cupcakes a little dense!
5. Bake the Cupcakes
Scoop the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the Frosting
While the cupcakes are cooling, make your chocolate buttercream. Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a splash of milk. Continue to beat until it’s light and fluffy. Adjust the milk to get your desired frosting consistency.
7. Frost the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, spread the chocolate frosting on each one with a spatula, or pipe it on for a fancier look. Don’t be shy—generously coat each cupcake with that silky, chocolatey goodness.
8. Add the Malteser Bunnies
Top each cupcake with a Malteser bunny, gently pressing it into the frosting to secure it. Now, you’ve got the cutest, most delicious bunnies hopping onto your plate!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your cupcakes are ready to impress! Serve them up with a big smile, and enjoy every bite of that chocolatey, malty goodness. And trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe
How to Serve Malteser Bunny Cupcakes
These cupcakes are the perfect standalone treat, but if you want to take it up a notch, serve them with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Decorate Your Cupcakes: Feel free to get creative with your bunny decorations! You can add extra chocolate shavings, colorful sprinkles, or even mini Easter eggs around the Malteser bunnies for extra fun.
- Make Ahead: You can bake the cupcakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Frost them just before serving to keep the buttercream fresh and smooth.
- Experiment with Frosting Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different frostings. A creamy vanilla frosting would also work beautifully with the chocolate cupcake base.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different candy for decoration? A1: Absolutely! You can swap out the Malteser bunnies for any small candy you like—Mini Eggs, Cadbury Creme Eggs, or even chocolate-covered almonds work great!
Q2: Can I make the cupcakes ahead of time? A2: Yes, you can bake the cupcakes ahead and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Q3: How do I store leftovers? A3: Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze these cupcakes? A4: Yes! Frosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just place them in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature.
Q5: Can I double this recipe? A5: Definitely! Just make sure to use a larger muffin tin or bake in batches if you’re making a lot. Cooking time will stay roughly the same.
Q6: Are these cupcakes suitable for special diets? A6: While this recipe is not gluten-free or dairy-free as written, you can swap in appropriate alternatives to suit dietary needs. For example, use dairy-free butter and milk, and gluten-free flour if needed.
Conclusion
These Malteser Bunny Cupcakes are sure to bring smiles all around! They’re rich, delicious, and downright adorable. I promise you, after one bite, you’ll be hooked—and your guests will be asking for more. So, give these a try and enjoy the sweetest Easter treat of the season!
PrintMalteser Bunny Cupcakes
These adorable Malteser Bunny Cupcakes are the perfect Easter treat! Rich, moist chocolate cupcakes topped with creamy malted buttercream frosting, finished with a cute Malteser Bunny in the center. These sweet, fluffy cupcakes are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults this holiday
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 12 cupcakes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert, Cupcakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Easter Treats
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
-
For the Chocolate Cupcakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup hot coffee or hot water
For the Malted Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup malted milk powder (Ovaltine works great!)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Decorating:
- 12 Malteser Bunnies
- Crushed Maltesers or malted milk balls
- Chocolate sprinkles or extra cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
-
Make the Chocolate Cupcakes:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, beat together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Add milk and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in hot coffee or water until the batter is smooth and slightly thin.
Divide batter evenly into cupcake liners (about ¾ full).
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool completely before frosting. -
Make the Malted Buttercream Frosting:
Beat butter until fluffy (2-3 minutes).
Add powdered sugar, malted milk powder, and cocoa powder, beating until smooth.
Mix in milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until light and creamy. -
Assemble & Decorate:
Pipe or spread malted frosting onto each cooled cupcake.
Sprinkle with crushed Maltesers or chocolate sprinkles.
Gently press a Malteser Bunny into the center of each cupcake.
Notes
- If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar by ½ cup and add more malted milk powder for flavor.
- Use extra Maltesers for a fun, crunchy topping around the frosting for more texture!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg