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Cola Cupcakes Recipe: Moist Soda-Soaked Chocolate Cupcakes

img 354 1I’ve tried many cola-inspired cupcakes before, but few ever tasted clearly of cola. I developed this cola cupcake recipe to capture that familiar fizzy, spiced citrus profile. While nothing beats the real drink, these cupcakes—with their spicy citrus notes—come remarkably close. Give them a try.

To complement the cupcakes I frost them with a whipped cream buttercream for a light, creamy cola-float finish. If you want the whipped cream buttercream recipe, you can find it on my site.

COLA CUPCAKES
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 12
Ingredients
  • 175g plain flour
  • 30g cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 185g caster sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 120ml cola
  • 120ml milk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (extra)
  • 100ml neutral oil (vegetable or sunflower)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) on bake setting.
  2. Sift the plain flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and a pinch of salt into a large bowl. Stir in the caster sugar so the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
  3. Measure the milk into a small jug and add the tablespoon of lemon juice. Set aside for 5–10 minutes to curdle slightly—this creates a tangy buttermilk substitute.
  4. In a stand mixer or a bowl using an electric whisk, combine the eggs, vanilla extract, cola, oil, the curdled milk, the extra teaspoon of lemon juice and the lemon zest.
  5. Beat the wet ingredients together until well combined.
  6. On low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until smooth and homogenous. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Transfer the batter to a measuring jug for easier pouring, then fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full.
  8. Bake for 16–20 minutes, or until the cupcakes spring back lightly when touched and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting with a swirl of whipped cream buttercream.
  10. For a playful finishing touch, sprinkle cola-flavored popping candy over the buttercream just before serving. Serve immediately so the popping effect is at its best.
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