Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes

Name: Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup boiling water; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; Edible flowers; Colored sprinkles

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Ideas

I absolutely love baking, and these Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes are among my favorite creations. The combination of rich chocolate cupcakes with a luscious ganache filling truly elevates any occasion. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, and the beautiful flower design is a delightful touch that impresses everyone. I’ve experimented with various fillings and toppings, but this ganache recipe is a winner that never disappoints. The balance between the moist cake and the silky ganache is simply irresistible; you'll want to make these cupcakes for every celebration!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:06:28.635Z

When I first made these Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet elegant they turned out. The moist chocolate cupcake serves as the perfect base, while the ganache filling adds a rich texture and flavor that truly shines through. I find that using high-quality chocolate for the ganache makes all the difference—it's worth the investment!

This recipe is versatile, allowing for different toppings or decorations. I often add edible flowers or colorful sprinkles to match the occasion, making them not just delicious but also visually striking. Trust me, these cupcakes are bound to be a hit with anyone who tries them!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Decadent chocolate flavor combined with a silky ganache that oozes delight
Beautiful flower decoration that makes them perfect for any celebration
Rich, moist texture that keeps you coming back for more

The Role of Each Ingredient

Every ingredient in these Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. For instance, buttermilk is not just for moisture; it adds a slight tang that complements the richness of the cocoa. The acidity helps to react with the baking soda, creating a lighter crumb in the final cupcake. Using high-quality cocoa powder makes a notable difference in the overall chocolate flavor, so don’t skimp on this key component.

Similarly, the semi-sweet chocolate for the ganache should be selected with care. A chocolate that's too sweet can overpower the subtle flavors of the cupcakes. Chopping the chocolate into small, even pieces ensures quick melting and a smoother texture in your ganache. If you prefer a slightly different flavor profile, experimenting with dark chocolate can add depth and complexity, while milk chocolate offers a sweeter option.

Techniques for Perfect Ganache

Making ganache can be intimidating, but it's all about timing and temperature. When heating the heavy cream, watch closely for bubbles to form around the edges as this indicates it's ready to pour over the chocolate. Letting the ganache sit for a full five minutes before stirring allows the chocolate to soften evenly, resulting in a smooth, glossy finish. If your ganache is too thick after mixing, simply heat a small amount of cream and whisk it in to achieve your desired consistency.

Once your ganache is ready, it's important to work quickly while assembling the cupcakes. If it cools too much, it might become difficult to fill the cupcakes or pour over the tops. If you're making these cupcakes for a special event, prepare the ganache ahead of time and keep it warm in a bowl set over a pot of simmering water until needed. This makes the filling and topping process much simpler and ensures everything looks perfect.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delectable Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes.

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup boiling water

For the Ganache

8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream

For Decoration

Edible flowers
Colored sprinkles

Make sure to measure the ingredients carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your fantastic Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

Incorporate Boiling Water

Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that's okay!

Bake the Cupcakes

Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Ganache

While the cupcakes are cooling, make the ganache. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just boiling, then pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes have cooled, remove the center of each cupcake and fill it with ganache. Top with more ganache and decorate with edible flowers and sprinkles.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate for the ganache. Additionally, letting the ganache cool slightly before filling the cupcakes will help it maintain its shape during decoration.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Ganache Flower Cupcakes are as versatile as they are delicious. For an eye-catching presentation, consider serving them on a tiered stand surrounded by fresh fruit or additional edible flowers. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can create a delightful dessert experience that balances the cupcakes' richness.

If you're looking to impress, try adding a flavored dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar over the top just before serving. A light sprinkle can elevate their appearance and add an extra touch of sweetness without overwhelming the chocolate flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Easily prepare these cupcakes in advance for parties or gatherings. The cupcakes themselves can be made and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days before serving, so you can bake ahead and save time on the day of your event. For optimal freshness, you might consider freezing the cupcakes (unfrosted) for up to two months. Just wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

The ganache can also be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until it's smooth and pourable again. This makes for a low-stress assembly process, allowing you to focus on enjoying the occasion rather than stressing in the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate, but the flavor will change accordingly.

→ How long can I store the cupcakes?

These cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze the cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw them before filling with ganache.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice in a 1:1 ratio.