1. Can I make gluten-free chocolate cupcakes dairy-free as well?

Absolutely! Substitute buttermilk with your favorite plant-based milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice, and use a dairy-free frosting. Most quality gluten-free flour blends are already dairy-free—just check the label.

2. Why do my gluten-free chocolate cupcakes sometimes turn out dry?

Gluten-free flours absorb more moisture than wheat flour. To avoid dry cupcakes, don’t overbake them and consider adding a tablespoon of applesauce or extra oil for added moisture.

3. How do I keep my gluten-free cupcakes from sinking in the middle?

Be sure to measure your ingredients carefully, avoid overmixing the batter, and fill your cupcake liners only two-thirds full. Baking at the correct temperature (usually 350°F) helps them rise evenly.

4. Can I freeze gluten-free chocolate cupcakes?

Yes! Cool them completely, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic, and freeze in a zip-top bag. They keep well for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Cupcakes – 7 Secrets for Irresistible

Description

Moist, rich, and tender gluten-free chocolate cupcakes that bring everyone together—perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or cozy family moments.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/4 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (with xanthan gum)
1/2 cup high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup neutral oil (such as sunflower or canola)
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup plant milk + 1 tsp vinegar for dairy-free)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup hot water or coffee

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour blend, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.
Mix the hot water or coffee into the wet ingredients, stirring to combine.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Frost with your favorite gluten-free buttercream, cream cheese, or chocolate frosting and decorate as desired.

Notes

For extra moist cupcakes, add 1 tablespoon of applesauce to the batter. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temp or 5 days refrigerated. Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cupcake
Calories: 180
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 170mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg