Delicious Zuccotto Cupcakes Recipe

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with these delectable zuccotto cupcakes. Inspired by the traditional Italian dessert, these cupcakes are a delightful combination of chocolate, almonds, and a hint of orange liqueur. Topped with a creamy mascarpone frosting and garnished with chocolate shavings, they are sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds
• 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, combine the orange liqueur, slivered almonds, and chocolate chips. Set aside.
7. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
8. Using a teaspoon or small knife, scoop out a small portion from the center of each cupcake. Fill the cavity with the prepared filling mixture. Repeat for all the cupcakes.
9. Frost the cupcakes with the mascarpone cream mixture, using a piping bag or a spatula.
10. Garnish each cupcake with dark chocolate shavings.
11. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
12. Enjoy your delicious homemade zuccotto cupcakes!

Interesting Facts