Name: Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 1 h 2 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup plain flour / all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened regular, sifted); 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda (bi-carbonate soda); 1/2 tsp kosher salt (halve for table salt, +25% for flakes); 3/4 cup (tightly packed) brown sugar; 2 large eggs at room temperature; 1/3 cup oil (canola, vegetable, or any other plain flavored oil); 1/3 cup milk (preferably full fat though any % will work, even non-dairy); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp white vinegar (activates baking soda); 1 tsp coffee granules (optional); 1/3 cup hot water; 180g / 6 oz dark chocolate / semi-sweet chocolate melts or chips (or chopped dark chocolate); 3/4 cup (180 ml) thickened cream / heavy cream (30%-36% fat, not low fat); 2/3 cup thickened cream / heavy cream (or any whipped cream); 50g / 3 tbsp block cream cheese, softened (stabilizes cream, can substitute with tub cream cheese); 2 tbsp caster sugar / superfine sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 235 reviews

If you are craving a show-stopping treat that combines rich chocolate, silky ganache, and the smoothest vanilla cream, you have to try this Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes sing with deep cocoa flavor, balanced beautifully by a luscious vanilla cream center and crowned with a glossy chocolate ganache. Perfect for celebrations or an indulgent afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe brings together simple, thoughtful ingredients for an impressive dessert that’s sure to wow anyone lucky enough to take a bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface containing several smooth oval dark brown mushrooms at the bottom. A creamy pale yellow sauce is being poured from a black saucepan into the bowl, partially covering the mushrooms. In the second image, a woman's hand holds a spatula mixing the thick sauce and mushrooms in the bowl, creating a swirled texture of brown and white creamy colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe plays an essential role. From the cocoa powder that provides the chocolatey depth, to the vinegar that activates the leavening for a perfect rise, each component works together to create tender, moist cupcakes and a creamy, dreamy filling.

3/4 cup plain flour / all-purpose flour: The base of the cupcake’s structure, giving it that soft crumb.
1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened, sifted): Provides rich chocolate flavor with a natural bitterness that balances the sweetness.
1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Reacts with vinegar for extra lift and a tender texture.
1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
3/4 cup tightly packed brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and moistness.
2 large eggs at room temperature: Bind ingredients with richness and help with structure.
1/3 cup oil (canola, vegetable or plain flavored): Keeps cupcakes moist without overpowering flavor.
1/3 cup milk (full fat preferred): Adds creaminess and moisture; dairy or non-dairy both work well.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
1/2 tsp white vinegar: Activates the baking soda for fluffy cupcakes.
1 tsp coffee granules (optional): Intensifies the chocolate flavor subtly without tasting like coffee.
1/3 cup hot water: Used to bloom the cocoa and coffee for a richer batter.
180g / 6 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate: The star ingredient for the silky ganache topping.
3/4 cup thickened/heavy cream (for ganache): Creates that perfectly smooth, spreadable chocolate glaze.
2/3 cup thickened/heavy cream (for filling): Whips up light and airy vanilla cream filling.
50g/3 tbsp block cream cheese, softened: Stabilizes the cream filling for a luscious texture.
2 tbsp caster/superfine sugar: Sweetens the filling delicately without graininess.

How to Make Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Start this Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe by creating the ganache—it’s all about patience. Heat the cream until it’s just about to boil, then pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit without covering for 7 minutes so the chocolate melts gently and smoothly. Stir slowly until silky. If bits remain, zap the mixture briefly in the microwave, stirring in between until smooth. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours until spreadable, like soft peanut butter.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

While the ganache chills, preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan). Line a 12-muffin tin with cupcake liners. Sift and whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, oil, milk, vanilla, and vinegar. Then dissolve the coffee granules in hot water. Combine wet ingredients slowly into the dry, whisking until fully blended. Finally, fold in the coffee mixture and give the batter a firm but gentle bang on the countertop to remove large air bubbles.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Pour the batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling them just halfway to avoid spills or sinks. Bake for 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Wait at least 1.5 hours to ensure they reach room temperature before filling.

Step 4: Prepare Vanilla Cream Filling

Whip the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract on high speed until smooth and creamy, about one minute. Then add the heavy cream and beat until firm peaks form, creating a dreamy vanilla filling with just the right balance of sweetness and tang.

Step 5: Fill and Frost the Cupcakes

Carefully cut out a small cylinder-shaped cavity in the center of each cupcake, leaving about a half-inch border. Scoop out the cake and trim the tops to form lids, keeping them nearby. Spoon the whipped vanilla cream into the hollow and press the lid back down until it sits flush. Finally, dollop a generous spoonful of cooled ganache on top and spread it smooth. Feel free to decorate with white chocolate shavings or sprinkles for extra flair!

How to Serve Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe

The image shows a group of chocolate cupcakes arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has a rich, dark brown chocolate base with a smooth, thick layer of shiny chocolate frosting spread on top in soft swirls. The cupcakes sit in white paper liners with slight ridges around the edges. The frosting on each cupcake is uneven but glossy, with visible swirls and peaks creating a textured look. The overall color palette is deep brown from the chocolate with the white liners providing contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These cupcakes look extraordinary topped simply with chocolate ganache, but you can elevate them by adding shavings of white or dark chocolate, a light dusting of cocoa powder, or even a few fresh berries for a pop of color. A sprinkle of edible gold dust makes them party-ready!

Side Dishes

Serve these Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe treats alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of raspberry coulis to balance the richness with fruity freshness. A steaming cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate pairs beautifully, rounding out the indulgence perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, arrange the cupcakes on a tiered cake stand or serve them in decorative cupcake wrappers matching your party theme. You can also pipe swirls of leftover vanilla cream on top of the ganache and garnish with edible flowers or sprinkles for a touch of whimsy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cupcakes keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vanilla cream filling and ganache remain fresh and luscious, making your next-day chocolate craving just as satisfying as freshly baked.

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes either before filling or after decorating. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Because these cupcakes have a delicate cream filling, it’s best to enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. However, if you prefer a slightly warm treat, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving to prevent breaking the cream or melting the ganache unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use regular table salt instead of kosher salt?

Yes! Just reduce the amount slightly since table salt is finer and saltier by volume. Using about half the amount will keep the flavor balanced in this Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe.

Is the coffee granule necessary?

The coffee is optional but highly recommended. It intensifies the chocolate flavor subtly, making it richer without tasting like coffee.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor remains fantastic.

What type of chocolate works best for the ganache?

Dark or semi-sweet chocolate with around 60-70% cocoa content works best here, providing the perfect balance of richness and sweetness for the ganache topping.

Can I prepare the cupcakes a day ahead?

Yes, you can bake and fill the cupcakes a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the cream from drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Cream Filled Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes Recipe is a delightful celebration of textures and flavors that never fails to impress. From the moist, tender cupcake base to the fluffy vanilla cream center and decadent chocolate ganache topping, every bite feels like a special occasion. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite indulgence to share with friends and family.