Nutella Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re ready to put a big smile on everyone’s face, these Nutella Cupcakes are just the ticket. Imagine a swirl of rich, chocolatey cake filled with a glorious Nutella core, all topped with a dreamy Nutella buttercream. They’re equal parts decadent and playful, making them the absolute star of bake sales and celebrations—or, honestly, whenever you’re “just in the mood” for an irresistibly indulgent treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role in making your Nutella Cupcakes both memorable and foolproof. From the humble pantry staples to that generous scoop of Nutella, each one adds a layer of flavor, moistness, or lusciousness you won’t want to skip.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for a perfectly tender cupcake crumb.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: For a deep, chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with Nutella’s hazelnut notes.
• Baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise tall and stay light.
• Baking powder: Adds a little extra lift for the fluffiest texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances both the chocolate and Nutella flavors.
• Granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and moisture to every bite.
• Vegetable oil: Ensures the cupcakes are extra-moist (and stay that way for days).
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• Buttermilk or whole milk: For a soft, tender crumb—use buttermilk for a subtle tang.
• Vanilla extract: Balances and brightens all the chocolate and Nutella goodness.
• Nutella (for swirling or filling): The heart of the cupcake, creating a molten center or swirled surprise.
• Unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): The base of that creamy, dreamy swirl on top.
• Nutella (for frosting): Doubles down on the flavor with every mouthful of buttercream.
• Powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens and lightens the frosting to billowy perfection.
• Milk or heavy cream: Gives the frosting just the right consistency for either swirling or spreading.
• Vanilla extract (for frosting): Lends that finishing, aromatic touch.
• Pinch of salt (for frosting): Cuts through the sweetness for balance.

How to Make Nutella Cupcakes

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This tiny bit of prep guarantees your Nutella Cupcakes will release perfectly and develop those lovely, crinkled edges we all love.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything combines evenly and prevents pesky clumps of cocoa or leavening agents from sneaking into a bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, beat the sugar and oil together until smooth. Crack in your eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each—this helps the mixture stay silky. Add in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until the batter looks creamy and unified.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into your wet bowl. Stir gently, just until you can’t see streaks of flour—overmixing will make your cupcakes a bit tough, so keep it tender! You should end up with a smooth, chocolatey batter.

Step 5: Swirl in the Nutella

Spoon batter into your cupcake liners until each is about two-thirds full. Now, drop a rounded teaspoon of Nutella right in the center of each cupcake. For a gooey surprise, let it be; or grab a toothpick and swirl gently for a marbled effect that looks as enticing as it tastes.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted at the edge (not the center, thanks to the Nutella) comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely—this sets them up for perfect frosting later.

Step 7: Make the Nutella Buttercream

For the frosting, beat softened butter and Nutella until you have a smooth, fluffy, unified mixture. Sift in the powdered sugar gradually while mixing on low, then add vanilla, a splash of milk or cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat until it’s creamy, dreamy, and easily spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a drop more milk until it’s just right.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Once your cupcakes are completely cool, frost each with a big, generous swirl of Nutella buttercream. Let your imagination run wild with final touches: sprinkles, chocolate chips, a drizzle of extra Nutella—or even a little sea salt for a grown-up twist.

How to Serve Nutella Cupcakes

Garnishes

While Nutella Cupcakes are irresistible on their own, a little creative garnish makes them party-ready. Try a sprinkle of rainbow nonpareils or chocolate curls for fun, or a drizzle of warm Nutella and a pinch of chopped hazelnuts for sophisticated flair. Even a touch of flaky sea salt can really make the flavors pop!

Side Dishes

If you want to turn snack time into an event, pair these cupcakes with something cool and creamy, like vanilla gelato or a scoop of coffee ice cream. A frosty glass of milk, a rich hot chocolate, or even a shot of espresso all make perfect companions for the deep chocolate and nutty flavors of these treats.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Nutella Cupcakes to the next level by stacking them on a tiered cupcake stand, or individually wrapping each in parchment for a chic DIY party favor. Set up a cupcake decorating “station” so guests can sprinkle or drizzle their own toppings, or plate each cupcake with a swirl of Nutella and a dusting of cocoa powder for pure wow-factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Nutella Cupcakes will stay fabulous for up to three days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For maximum freshness, keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat. If your kitchen runs warm or the frosting is especially soft, you can refrigerate—just let them come to room temp before eating for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

Want to save a few cupcakes for a rainy day? Freeze unfrosted Nutella Cupcakes in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and frost as desired. You can freeze frosted cupcakes too; just know the texture of the frosting may change ever so slightly.

Reheating

If you love a warm cupcake (who doesn’t?), microwave an unfrosted Nutella Cupcake for 5–10 seconds until slightly warm and fragrant. For frosted cupcakes, let them sit at room temperature until they lose their chill—this brings the buttercream back to that perfect creamy state and revives both flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different chocolate spread instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! While Nutella is the classic choice for these cupcakes, you can swap in any chocolate-hazelnut spread you love, or try other nut butters for a fun twist. Just keep in mind, the flavor and sweetness may vary a bit depending on your choice.

What’s the secret to super-moist Nutella Cupcakes?

The combination of vegetable oil and either buttermilk or whole milk is what keeps these cupcakes extra tender and moist. Don’t skip the oil—unlike butter, it stays soft even after the cupcakes cool, so your crumb won’t dry out. And of course, avoid overbaking!

Can I make the Nutella buttercream ahead of time?

Yes! Whip up the Nutella buttercream up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to frost, let it come back to room temperature and give it a quick mix to fluff it back up. It’ll be just as smooth, creamy, and perfect for piping or spreading.

Do I need a stand mixer for the frosting?

Not at all. A good old hand mixer or even a sturdy whisk will do the job—just be ready for a bit of a workout if you’re mixing by hand. The most important thing is to start with butter that’s properly softened for the smoothest Nutella buttercream possible.

How do I get that gorgeous marbled Nutella swirl in the center?

After adding your teaspoon of Nutella to the middle of each cupcake, use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl it into the batter. Don’t overdo it; just a few quick turns create a beautiful marbled look and keep plenty of gooey Nutella in the center.

Final Thoughts

Nutella Cupcakes have a way of turning an ordinary day into a delicious celebration. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or satisfying your own sweet tooth, these little masterpieces are sure to be a hit. Go ahead, give them a try—and get ready for heaps of chocolate-hazelnut joy in every single bite!