Chocolate Mousse Cupcakes Divine and Decadent Treat

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.5 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 0.25 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 cup chocolate shavings
• 1 cup fresh berries (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.
4. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
7. In a small saucepan, melt the chopped chocolate over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
8. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until stiff peaks form.
9. In another bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy, then gradually add a tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
10. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream, then carefully fold in the whipped egg whites until no streaks remain.
11. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a small knife to cut a cone out of the center of each cupcake (keep the tops for later).
12. Spoon or pipe the chocolate mousse into the cavity of each cupcake. Replace the cone on top to cover the mousse.
13. Before serving, sprinkle chocolate shavings on top of the cupcakes and add berries if desired for a fresh contrast.