Directions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your muffin tin with paper liners. This step ensures easy removal and a professional presentation.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. This dry mixture is the foundation of your cupcakes’ flavor and texture.
3. Blend Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined. Don’t be afraid to indulge in the aroma at this stage—it’s a sneak peek of the deliciousness to come.
4. Infuse with Moisture
Gradually add the boiling water to the batter while stirring constantly. This may seem unconventional, but it’s the secret to achieving a moist and tender crumb in the cupcakes.
5. Fill and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the lined muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. This baking time allows the cupcakes to rise to perfection.
6. Frost with Love
Once the cupcakes have cooled, it’s time to prepare the peanut butter frosting. Beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is fluffy and irresistible.
7. Drizzle with Decadence
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream for the chocolate ganache. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Drizzle this luscious ganache over the frosted cupcakes.