Spooky Halloween Vampire Bite Cupcakes

Get ready to sink your teeth into these decadent chocolate cupcakes filled with a sweet, oozing center that’s sure to send shivers down your spine! These Halloween vampire cupcakes are a fun and spooky treat perfect for any Halloween party. Easy to make and even easier to devour, you’ll be the star of the show with these blood-red beauties!

Why You’ll Love This Halloween Vampire Cupcakes Recipe

These Halloween vampire cupcakes are not only incredibly festive but also unbelievably delicious. The rich chocolate flavor of the cupcake perfectly complements the sweet and tart raspberry filling, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. They’re so easy to make, even beginner bakers can create these stunning and spooky treats, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any Halloween gathering. Plus, they’re so impressive looking that everyone will think you’re a professional baker!

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups (180g), sifted for a lighter cupcake.
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g).
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: ½ cup (40g), use a high-quality cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, fresh, not expired.
• Baking soda: ½ teaspoon, fresh, not expired.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon.
• Large eggs: 2 large eggs (approx. 50g each), bring to room temperature 30 minutes before using.
• Vegetable oil: ½ cup (120ml), use a neutral-flavored oil like canola or sunflower.
• Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml), cold from the fridge.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Raspberry or strawberry jam: 1 cup (240g), use a seedless variety for a smoother filling.
• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g), softened to room temperature.
• Powdered sugar: 4 cups (480g), sifted to prevent lumps.
• Heavy cream: ¼ cup (60ml), cold from the fridge.
• Red food coloring: Gel food coloring is recommended for a vibrant color.
• Fresh raspberries (optional): For garnish.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with paper liners. This prevents the cupcakes from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for even baking.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, mix together the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined. The buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang to the cupcakes.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures:

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cupcakes. A few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes:

Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Filling:

In a small saucepan, heat the raspberry or strawberry jam over low heat until it becomes liquid and easily pourable. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 7: Core the Cupcakes:

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a cupcake corer or a knife to carefully remove a small circle from the center of each cupcake, creating a well for the jam filling.

Step 8: Fill with Jam:

Spoon the slightly cooled jam into each well, filling it generously. The jam will create a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat on high speed until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Add red food coloring gradually until you reach your desired shade of “blood red”.

Step 10: Frost the Cupcakes:

Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip. Pipe the frosting on top of each cupcake in a swirl or other decorative pattern. Alternatively, you can spread the frosting on with a knife.

Step 11: Garnish:

If desired, garnish each cupcake with fresh raspberries for an extra touch of spooky elegance. Serve immediately and enjoy your Halloween vampire cupcakes!

Variations, Pairings, & Serving Ideas

For a fun twist, try using a different flavor jam, such as cherry or blackberry, for the filling. To enhance the chocolate flavor, add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the batter. Serve these Halloween vampire cupcakes with a glass of chilled milk or a warm cup of cocoa. These cupcakes make a fantastic addition to any Halloween party dessert table, and consider arranging them on a spooky platter with edible glitter for extra sparkle.

For a delightful savory pairing, consider serving alongside Reuben Soup Recipe for a contrasting but comforting combination. The rich chocolate also complements a light, refreshing Balsamic Vinaigrette salad. Consider serving it alongside Halloween Vampire Cupcakes 2, for those that love to bake different versions of the same kind of dessert!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

To store your Halloween vampire cupcakes, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw them completely before frosting. The frosting can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and rewhip before using.

Common Mistakes When Making Halloween Vampire Cupcakes

Why are my cupcakes dry?

Dry cupcakes are often the result of overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour accurately and avoid overmixing the batter. Also, check the cupcakes for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.

Why did my cupcakes sink in the middle?

Sinking cupcakes can be caused by using too much baking soda or baking powder, or by opening the oven door too frequently during baking. Always measure your leavening agents precisely and avoid opening the oven until the cupcakes are mostly set.

Why is my frosting grainy?

Grainy frosting is usually caused by using cold butter or not sifting the powdered sugar. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature and sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the frosting.

Why is my red frosting not vibrant enough?

Achieving a deep red color can be tricky. Gel food coloring is your best bet, as it’s more concentrated than liquid food coloring. Add the color gradually until you reach your desired shade. Let the frosting sit for 30 minutes to deepen the color.

Why is my jam filling leaking out of the cupcakes?

Make sure the cupcakes have completely cooled before coring and filling them. Also, don’t overfill the wells with jam. If the jam is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it in a saucepan for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Final Notes

These Halloween vampire cupcakes are a delightful combination of spooky fun and delicious flavor, guaranteed to impress at any Halloween gathering. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your frosting and garnishes to create truly unique and eye-catching treats. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to create some hauntingly good Halloween vampire cupcakes that will be the highlight of your celebration!

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed making these Halloween vampire cupcakes, you’re sure to love these other spooky and delicious recipes from CookReel!

• Halloween Vampire Cupcakes 2 – Try this variation with a different frosting and a chocolate ganache drizzle for an extra decadent treat.
• Cornish Hens – A fantastic main course option for an elegant Halloween dinner.
• Cranberry Rosemary Chicken – A sweet and savory delight, perfect for a cozy autumn meal.
• Chopped Chicken Sandwich – The perfect, easy main to make alongside these desserts!
• Fantasy Fudge – Another amazing chocolate dessert that goes well with the general theme!

We hope you enjoy these recipes! Don’t forget to leave a comment and review letting us know what you think. Share your creations with family and friends, and let’s make this Halloween extra special together.