Delicious Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

There are days when the simplest comforts feel like the kindest gifts to ourselves. For me, Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes became exactly that—a tender embrace in edible form. I discovered this recipe during a quiet afternoon when I needed a break from constant busyness, a pause that invited gentle presence through the act of baking. These cupcakes are more than sweet treats; they offer a soulful rhythm, a way to bring mindfulness into the kitchen and nourishment into my day.

Preparing Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes invites a slowing down—a chance to notice the rich aroma of chocolate mingling with the subtle tartness of cherries. Each step becomes an opportunity to connect with the ingredients and the intentions behind this cherry filled cupcakes creation. Mindful cooking with this recipe embraces imperfection and presence, reminding me that nourishment extends beyond flavor to include care for the body, mind, and heart.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes hold a special place in my heart because they surface memories of sharing and connection. Whether it’s an afternoon with a dear friend or a quiet moment of self-care, this recipe feels like a gentle answer to both. If you find solace in mindful cooking and seek to enrich your moments with intention, I warmly invite you to make this recipe your own. It’s an offering of love through a chocolate cherry frosting hug paired with the lusciousness of the chocolate cupcake recipe beneath.

When you let this recipe unfold at its own pace, it resonates as a form of self-kindness. It teaches you to savor each moment, appreciate each ingredient, and rejoice in the sweet pleasure of cherry dessert recipes that nurture more than just your taste buds. Friends on this journey, if your spirit calls for a thoughtful treat that feels as good on the inside as it tastes, these Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes will be your kind companion.

Soulful Ingredients for This Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes:

Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes

Here are the carefully chosen ingredients I gather to create these Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes. Each one carries nourishing qualities that come together tenderly to craft this recipe’s soulful essence:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for more grounding earthiness)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (use Dutch process for a richer chocolate cupcake recipe)
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar (a gentle swap: brown sugar or maple sugar works beautifully here)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or a plant-based alternative like almond yogurt for a smooth texture)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (olive oil can be a gentle alternative, adding a subtle fruity note)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg (try a flax egg for a vegan adaptation)
  • 1/2 cup milk (any variety—regular, oat, or almond—to suit your preferences)
  • 1 cup pitted dark cherries, fresh or frozen and chopped (when fresh isn’t available, high-quality frozen cherries are mindful substitutes)
  • 1/2 cup homemade cherry preserves or cherry pie filling (for a cherry filled cupcakes center)

For the chocolate cherry frosting:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp cherry juice or a cherry liqueur (optional, for an extra soulful depth)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Choose local or organic cherries and dairy when possible for this mindful Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes. This supports both your health and the earth. I especially love using organic coconut sugar since it adds a warm, unrefined sweetness that feels more nourishing than processed options.

A soulful tip: Take a moment before you begin to appreciate the natural beauty of these ingredients—the deep maroon cherries, the dark cocoa powder rich with possibility, the creamy butter—each one is a gift intended to nourish.

When storing leftover Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within three days, but the flavors often deepen overnight, making the experience even more heartwarming the next day.

These ingredients come together in this Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes to create something truly nourishing on multiple levels. It’s a sweet reminder that what we give to our bodies and hearts matters, fostering a quiet joy in the kitchen.

Creating Your Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes with Presence:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As you prepare, take a moment to breathe gently, allowing your mind to settle into the calm focus of this shared ritual.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Notice the rich earthiness of the cocoa as you blend—this sensory moment invites a deeper connection to your ingredients.

3. In another bowl, combine the coconut sugar, Greek yogurt, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk. Stir slowly and lovingly. Feel the transformation as the creamy mixture comes together, a reminder that good things often require gentle patience.

4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet, mindful not to overmix. When your batter feels just right—deep and inviting—you’ll notice the comforting aroma beginning to build as it rests.

5. Fold in the chopped cherries with care. Each burst of cherry adds a little surprise of tartness that balances the chocolate’s richness. If you prefer, you can also wrap each cupcake with a spoonful of cherry preserves at the center to become a luscious cherry filled cupcakes gem.

6. Line a cupcake tin with paper liners and gently spoon the batter into each cup, filling about two-thirds full. Think of this as planting little gifts to nurture and share.

7. Bake for 18-22 minutes. While your Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes rise, allow yourself a mindful pause. Breathe in the warming chocolate cherry scent spreading in your kitchen—it’s a soft reminder of the care you’re offering yourself.

8. Once baked, let the cupcakes cool completely before moving on. Cooling is just as important as baking—it invites the texture to settle and the flavors to harmonize.

9. For the frosting, beat softened butter until smooth and creamy. Sift in powdered sugar and cocoa powder gradually, blending gently. Add cherry juice or liqueur and vanilla extract, adjusting until you find the perfect balance of richness and brightness. Each swirl of frosting feels like a sweet lullaby in the making.

10. Frost your cupcakes with loving attention. A gentle spread or a playful swirl completes your Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes—each one a little work of mindfulness and heart.

If this nourishes you, you might appreciate the delicate balance found in other cherry dessert recipes like the Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes Recipe | Baked by an Introvert or the Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes with Cherry filling MidgetMomma. These offer lovely variations on the theme, inspiring soulful baking experiences.

Trust the process with your Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes. Each step is an invitation to presence, reminding you that food is a kind conversation with yourself and others. While it takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, I encourage friends on this journey to savor every moment fully.

Nourishing with Your Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes:

Served Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes with cherry garnish

These Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes truly nourish when served with presence and appreciation. I love pairing them with a quiet cup of fragrant tea or a simple glass of cherry-infused water to complement the chocolate cherry frosting’s tender richness.

They make soulful companions for meaningful occasions—a birthday shared with close friends, a heartfelt thank-you, or a peaceful Sunday treat to celebrate self-care. This recipe’s combination of chocolate and cherry reminds me of the warmth that comes from shared stories and laughter even in the simplest moments.

Serving suggestion: Arrange your chocolate cherry cupcakes on wooden platters or vintage plates. Scatter a few fresh cherries or cocoa nibs around for a mindful presentation that invites others to pause and savor.

Leftovers can become delightful transformations, too. I often crumble the cooled cupcakes into a layered parfait with Greek yogurt and fresh cherries, creating a refreshing new way to enjoy the flavors. Another soul variation: drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over warm cupcakes for moments when you seek a deeper chocolate experience.

In the spirit of connection, I find joy in sharing these cupcakes at gatherings where their familiar yet distinctive flavor sparks smiles. If you delight in cherry filled cupcakes, you might also find the Raspberry Filled Chocolate Cupcakes and Chocolate Strawberry Heart Cupcakes lovely companions.

The act of serving these gently is a mindful practice itself—a chance to slow down and appreciate the gifts of food and friendship.

Gentle Guidance for Your Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes:

How can I make this Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes preparation more mindful?
Pause before you begin each step. Allow the act of mixing, folding, and frosting to become moments of meditation, inviting you to notice textures, aromas, and your emotional response. Setting an intention to nourish yourself with kindness helps shape a meaningful cooking rhythm.

What’s a nourishing alternative to coconut oil in this Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes?
Olive oil is a gentle alternative, offering heart-healthy fats and subtle complexity. Butter, if dairy fits your lifestyle, also brings richness. Each swap gently shifts the tone of your cupcakes while remaining nourishing.

How can I adapt this Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes for different energy levels?
When your energy feels low, consider preparing a smaller batch or taking breaks between steps. If you’re feeling vibrant, let your creative spirit play with added spices like cinnamon or even a dash of chili for a comforting surprise.

What if I want to make these cupcakes vegan?
Use a flax egg and plant-based yogurt as described. Opt for vegan butter or coconut oil and check your chocolate for dairy-free status. This allows the soulful flavors to shine while aligning with compassionate choices.

How do I store the leftover chocolate cherry frosting?
Keep it in a small airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When ready to use again, bring to room temperature and gently whip to restore its silky texture.

Can I use frozen cherries in this recipe?
Yes, frozen cherries work wonderfully—just thaw and drain excess juice to avoid extra moisture that could alter your cupcake batter’s texture.

What makes the chocolate cherry frosting feel particularly meaningful?
It’s the balance of bitterness from cocoa and brightness from cherry juice or liqueur. This contrast mirrors the gentle tensions of life and offers comforting sweetness with thoughtful depth.

I’ve learned that cooking Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes invites us to stop chasing perfection and instead nurture a rich relationship with our homemade food. Whether you’re exploring the Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes – Preppy Kitchen, or crafting your own, the heart of this dish is in the presence you bring to the work.

Heartfelt Reflections on This Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes:

This Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes holds a special place in my collection because it reminds me of the gentle power of food to calm a restless mind and soothe a tired heart. Making it invites a pause to sense connection—to the kitchen, to the season, and to those receiving this humble gift.

Heartfelt Tips for This Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes:

  • Invite curiosity over perfection: The slight ripple of cherry filling or the swirl of the chocolate cherry frosting each carries character and care.
  • Embrace seasonal ingredients: Fresh cherries in summer or frozen in winter bring their own magic.
  • Make it your own: Adjust sweetness or add a touch of spice for soulful personalization.

Soulful versions I cherish include stirring in chopped toasted almonds for a little texture, swirling in a touch of cherry balsamic reduction in frosting, or creating mini cupcake bites for sharing.

The most nurturing version to me remains the classic cherry filled cupcakes, complemented by the luscious chocolate cherry frosting. It’s a true comfort-food hug.

Dear friends on this mindful cooking path, I encourage you to prepare these Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes with the warmth of your own intuition guiding each step. Listen to your senses, trust your rhythm, and remember that the act of cooking is a love letter to yourself and those you care for.

I hope when you taste these gentle treats, you feel embraced, cherished, and nourished—your body, your daily rhythms, and your connections touched by this simple, soulful recipe.

For more inspiration that honors heartfelt connections through food, you might like the Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies, where comfort meets playfulness.

May your kitchen be a place of peaceful joy with every batch of these Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes.

Print

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes

Delight in these moist chocolate cupcakes topped with a luscious cherry filling and a smooth chocolate coating, perfect for any dessert occasion.

  • Author: Fiola Bennett
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup 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
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry pie filling
  • 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
  5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in chopped maraschino cherries gently.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
  10. Once cooled, hollow out a small center in each cupcake and fill with cherry pie filling.
  11. To make the chocolate coating, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate with heavy cream over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
  12. Dip the top of each filled cupcake into the melted chocolate or spoon it over the top to cover the cherry filling.
  13. Place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Notes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or grated white chocolate on top before the coating sets.

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