Name: Double Chocolate Banana Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: PT-491109H4M33S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams); 1/2 cup cocoa powder (40 grams); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 ml); 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams) (light or dark works); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2/3 cup mashed bananas (160 ml); 1/3 cup milk (80 ml); 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams) (softened); 3-4 cups powdered sugar (330 – 440 grams) (sifted); 1/2 cup cocoa powder (40 grams) (sifted); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4-6 tablespoons whipping cream (60-75 ml) (milk can be used as substitute)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 34 reviews

If you are a chocolate lover with a soft spot for bananas, then this Double Chocolate Banana Cupcakes Recipe is about to become your new baking obsession. These cupcakes are the perfect marriage of rich, fudgy cocoa and natural banana sweetness, creating a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The luscious chocolate frosting on top takes it all to the next level, making each bite a heavenly experience you will want to savor again and again. Whether for a cozy afternoon treat or an impressive dessert at your next gathering, these cupcakes never fail to delight and impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a chocolate cupcake with three layers: the bottom layer is rich, dark brown chocolate cake with a moist texture, the middle layer is a thick swirl of smooth, dark chocolate frosting covering the top of the cake, and the top layer is a single crisp yellow banana chip placed on the edge of the frosting. In the background, there is another cupcake with similar layers cooling on a white metal rack. The surface under the cupcake is a shiny white marble texture. A clear glass of milk is partially visible on the right side, adding to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients for this recipe shows just how accessible and straightforward baking can be. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, or that irresistible chocolate color we crave in these cupcakes.

1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams): The structure builder that creates the perfect cupcake crumb.
1/2 cup cocoa powder (40 grams): Adds deliciously rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the batter.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise to fluffy perfection.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the acid in the bananas to give a light, airy texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and chocolate.
1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 ml): Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender without weighing them down.
1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams): Adds a caramel undertone and extra moisture.
1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams): Sweetens the batter evenly while helping with browning.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together and give the cupcakes structure.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
2/3 cup mashed bananas (160 ml): The star ingredient providing natural sweetness, moisture, and that classic banana taste.
1/3 cup milk (80 ml): Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams), softened: Essential for the decadent chocolate frosting texture.
3-4 cups powdered sugar (330-440 grams), sifted: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
1/2 cup cocoa powder (40 grams), sifted: Adds intense chocolate flavor to the frosting.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Balances the rich cocoa in the frosting with a lovely aromatic touch.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Sharpens the chocolate taste and balances sweetness in the frosting.
4-6 tablespoons whipping cream (60-75 ml): Helps achieve a creamy, fluffy frosting that spreads easily; milk is a substitute but less thick.

How to Make Double Chocolate Banana Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Muffin Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two muffin trays with paper liners, which will help your cupcakes come out cleanly and give them that classic cupcake look. This prep step is crucial to ensure even baking and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combo ensures your cupcakes rise just right and have that beautifully rich chocolate taste. Set this bowl aside and get ready to mix the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk the vegetable oil with brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. These wet ingredients form the base of your batter, delivering sweetness, moisture, and flavor. Once well combined, gently fold in the mashed bananas, which will make cupcakes irresistibly soft and naturally sweet.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Make a well in the center of your dry ingredient bowl and pour in the wet mixture. Carefully whisk it all together until no dry streaks remain, but don’t worry if you still see some lumps of banana—that’s expected and adds to the texture.

Step 5: Fill Cupcake Liners and Bake

Spoon the batter evenly into your lined muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds to three-quarters full to allow room for rising. Plan on making about 14 to 16 cupcakes. Bake one tray at a time on your oven’s middle rack for 16-18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool the Cupcakes

Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the tins for 10 minutes. This helps them settle and makes them easier to remove without breaking. Then transfer each cupcake to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy, setting the stage for a creamy frosting. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to prevent clouds of sugar everywhere. Then add the sifted cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing gently at first and increasing speed to fully incorporate.

Step 8: Adjust Frosting Consistency

Keep folding in the remaining powdered sugar and alternating tablespoons of whipping cream until you reach the perfect frosting thickness—spreadable yet sturdy enough to hold its shape. This step allows you to customize sweetness and creaminess exactly to your liking.

Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes

Employ a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip (a 1M tip works beautifully) to pipe elegant swirls of frosting on each cupcake. If you prefer a more rustic look, a simple knife spread will do just fine. Your cupcakes will look as divine as they taste!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Banana Cupcakes Recipe

Four chocolate cupcakes sit on a silver cooling rack over white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has a dark brown chocolate base wrapped in white cupcake liners. On top of each cupcake is a thick swirl of shiny, rich dark chocolate frosting, with a single golden-yellow, slightly browned banana chip placed upright on the frosting. The background is softly blurred, showing a glass of milk and a few scattered banana chips, creating a fresh and inviting look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a special touch, sprinkle a few chocolate chips, chopped toasted walnuts, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder on the frosting. These little details enhance both presentation and flavor, turning your cupcakes into stunning treats that wow friends and family.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a glass of cold milk or rich coffee for a classic combo that balances the sweetness perfectly. Fresh berries on the side can provide a tangy contrast that brightens each bite, making your dessert feel fresh and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, serve your cupcakes in decorative liners and arrange them on a tiered cake stand. Alternatively, placing them in clear treat bags tied with ribbon makes perfect, thoughtful gifts. The Double Chocolate Banana Cupcakes Recipe truly shines when presented with a little flair!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, these cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping them covered prevents the frosting from drying out and helps maintain moisture in the banana cake.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. For frosted cupcakes, place them on a tray to freeze first, then transfer them to a container, separating layers with parchment paper to preserve the frosting’s shape.

Reheating

While these cupcakes are delicious cold, if you prefer them warm, microwave an unfrosted cupcake for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid microwaving frosted cupcakes as the frosting can melt; instead let them thaw to room temperature if frozen. This little step revives the moist texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use ripe bananas from the freezer?

Absolutely! Frozen ripe bananas work wonderfully, just thaw and mash well before adding to the batter. They often give an even sweeter and more intense banana flavor.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

Light-flavored oils like canola or melted coconut oil are good alternatives. Avoid olive oil as it can add an unwanted flavor.

Is it necessary to sift the cocoa powder for the frosting?

Sifting prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy frosting texture. It’s a small step that makes a big difference so I highly recommend it.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup like all-purpose flour. Just keep an eye on the texture since gluten-free flours can vary.

How do I know when cupcakes are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist.

Final Thoughts

This Double Chocolate Banana Cupcakes Recipe is one of my all-time favorites for good reason. It combines the best of comfort, chocolate indulgence, and natural banana sweetness in each bite. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself wanting to bake it again and again to share with loved ones or simply enjoy at home. Happy baking and even happier tasting!