If you have a sweet tooth and adore the nostalgic taste of cookie dough, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes Recipe. Imagine soft, moist cupcakes bursting with the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookie dough, topped with a luscious, creamy frosting packed with mini chocolate chips. This recipe blends the best of both worlds—the familiar comfort of a cookie dough treat and the irresistible fluffiness of cupcakes—making each bite a celebration for your taste buds. Whether for a party, a special treat, or just because, these cupcakes deliver a delightful and fun dessert experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in our Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes Recipe. From the flour that lends structure, to the sugars that bring sweetness and moisture, each element enhances the final treat.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base and structure needed for soft cupcakes.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in your cupcakes.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for batter): Adds richness and tenderness to the cupcake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and aids in a light crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the sweet notes.
- 1/2 cup milk: Ensures a moist, tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a creamy, smooth frosting base.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a caramel-like depth to the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Infuses the frosting with a sweet aroma.
- 1/4 cup milk (for frosting): Helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a fluffy texture.
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, plus extra for topping: Delivers bursts of chocolate flavor throughout the cupcakes and on top.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking essentials
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This step ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan, making them easy to remove after baking.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining these first allows the raising agents and salt to distribute evenly throughout the batter, which helps the cupcakes bake up perfectly.
Step 3: Cream butter and sugar
In a separate large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a tender crumb in your cupcakes.
Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that classic warm flavor base essential to both cupcakes and cookie dough.
Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. Mixing just until combined keeps the cupcakes light instead of dense, preserving their delicate texture.
Step 6: Bake the cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Then, let the cupcakes cool completely to prepare for frosting.
Step 7: Prepare the cookie dough frosting
Beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until creamy. Add vanilla and milk, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips to create that unmistakable cookie dough treat in frosting form.
Step 8: Frost and top your cupcakes
Once your cupcakes are completely cooled, generously frost each one with your cookie dough frosting. To add an extra touch of charm and flavor, sprinkle a few additional mini chocolate chips on top—this finishing touch is always a crowd-pleaser!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the frosting to elevate the flavors even more. These small touches add sophistication and contrast to the sweet, creamy cupcake experience.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a simple glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness and make for a nostalgic dessert pairing that’s hard to beat.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve these cupcakes in decorative wrappers or arrange them on a tiered stand to make a stunning dessert display. You could also press a small chocolate chip cookie on top of each cupcake for a whimsical “cookie dough on cookie” presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them fresh and moist. For longer storage, refrigeration is best, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their perfect texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these cupcakes without frosting in a sealed container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before frosting and serving.
Reheating
If you want to warm them up, microwave the cupcake for about 15 seconds. This little heat burst revives softness and brings out the buttery flavor, making them feel freshly baked once again.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have, but be sure to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cupcakes from becoming too salty.
Can I substitute mini chocolate chips with regular-sized ones?
Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips will work, but mini chips distribute more evenly throughout the batter and frosting, giving you chocolate in every bite without overwhelming the texture.
Is it necessary to cool cupcakes before frosting?
Yes, frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt or slide off. It’s best to wait until they are completely cool to maintain a neat and beautiful finish.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, by using a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free.
How long do these cupcakes stay fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature, these cupcakes are best enjoyed within two days. Refrigerated, they can last up to five days but may dry out slightly, so proper storage is key.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels indulgent yet fun, the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. It’s a fantastic way to bring together two beloved sweet treats into one show-stopping cupcake. Whether giving it as a gift or enjoying at home, this recipe promises smiles and moments of pure delight with every bite.
Print
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes, featuring moist vanilla cupcakes topped with a creamy, chocolate chip studded frosting that captures the classic cookie dough flavor in every bite. Perfect for celebrations or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture alternating with the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to ensure a tender cupcake.
- Fill and Bake: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and milk, mixing thoroughly. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Fold in mini chocolate chips gently.
- Frost Cupcakes: Using a spatula or piping bag, frost the cooled cupcakes evenly with the chocolate chip frosting. Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these luscious cupcakes at room temperature and enjoy the rich blend of cookie dough and vanilla cupcake flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for easier mixing and better texture.
- The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator; bring to room temperature before spreading.
- For a nut-free version, verify chocolate chips are processed without cross-contamination.
- These cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
