Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes

Name: Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp almond extract; 2-3 tbsp milk

Highlighted under: Whisked Delight Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate, tart cherries, and nutty almond flavors with these decadent cupcakes.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-03T15:38:30.692Z

These Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday, holiday, or just a special treat for yourself. The combination of flavors creates a moist, delicious cupcake that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Nutty almond essence adding depth to each bite
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

These Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes are not just a dessert; they are an experience. The harmonious blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for birthday parties, holidays, or simply as a weekend treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.

The nutty undertones of almond in both the cupcakes and the frosting elevate the overall taste, making each bite a delightful journey. Whether you're celebrating a special moment or enjoying a cozy day at home, these cupcakes add a touch of elegance and indulgence to any occasion.

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes

To achieve the best results with your Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This will help create a smoother batter and contribute to a tender crumb. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter when combining the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to dense cupcakes.

Another key tip is to evenly distribute the chopped cherries and sliced almonds throughout the batter. This ensures that each cupcake gets an equal share of flavor and texture. Lastly, remember to check your cupcakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time; ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, allow your Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for extended freshness. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

For serving, consider garnishing your cupcakes with additional sliced almonds or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch. Pair these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience that your family and friends will adore.

Ingredients

Cupcake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
1/4 cup sliced almonds

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp almond extract
2-3 tbsp milk

Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start baking!

Steps

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds.

Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with the chocolate almond buttercream.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes!

Nutritional Information

These cupcakes, while indulgent, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each cupcake offers a delightful combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The presence of cherries provides a source of antioxidants, while almonds add healthy fats and protein, making them a more nutritious choice compared to many other desserts.

Keep in mind that portion control is essential. Enjoying one cupcake at a time allows you to savor the rich flavors without overindulging. If you are looking to lighten the recipe, consider using low-fat alternatives for some of the ingredients, such as replacing butter with applesauce or using a sugar substitute.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Cherry Almond Cupcakes to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a hint of orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist, or swapping out the cherries for another fruit like raspberries or blueberries. These variations can add a unique flair while still keeping the delicious chocolate and almond base.

If you're a fan of different frostings, try a cream cheese frosting instead of the chocolate almond buttercream. The tangy cream cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of chocolate and the tartness of cherries, providing a delightful contrast that will elevate your cupcakes even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly.

→ What can I substitute for almond extract?

If you're allergic to almonds, you can substitute with additional vanilla extract for a different flavor.