There’s nothing quite like the intoxicating scent of vanilla and chocolate wafting through my kitchen, instantly transporting anyone nearby to a sweet paradise. I found myself in a delightful baking moment, craving something indulgent yet approachable, when the idea of Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes struck me—it combines light, fluffy cake with the signature flavor of rich Nutella and creamy buttercream.
After a particularly long week, I needed a treat that would satisfy my sweet tooth while also impressing my friends. These cupcakes not only look stunning with their Ferrero Rocher embellishments, but they’re deceptively simple to create. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal fuss, I was able to whip up a batch in under 40 minutes.
If you’re looking to elevate your dessert game, or simply find a reason to indulge in a little chocolate happiness, these Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes are guaranteed to please not just your palate but your heart as well. Let’s get baking!
Why are Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes irresistible?
Simplicity: The steps are straightforward, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Decadent flavor: The rich Nutella filling paired with fluffy vanilla cake delivers a dreamy balance.
Crowd-pleaser: Such stunning presentation with Ferrero Rocher toppings will impress everyone!
Quick fix: Ready in under 40 minutes, they’re ideal for unexpected guests or sweet cravings.
Versatile: Whether for celebrations or a casual treat, these cupcakes fit any occasion like a glove!
Looking for more delicious ideas? Check out my easy cupcake recipes!
Vanilla Nutella Cupcake Ingredients
• The foundation of indulgence!
For the Cupcake Batter
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake to perfection.
- Self-Raising Flour – Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Extra-large Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Whole Milk – Keeps the batter moist and adds creaminess.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor into the cupcakes.
- Sunflower Oil – Contributes moisture without overpowering the taste.
For the Nutella Buttercream Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and holds the frosting together.
- Cocoa Powder – Deepens the chocolate flavor for a deliciously rich texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
- Whipping Cream – Adds a light texture, making the frosting airy and smooth.
- Nutella – The star ingredient that brings a heavenly chocolate-hazelnut flavor to the frosting.
For the Toppings
- Ferrero Rocher Chocolates – Decadent adornments that add a touch of elegance.
- Chopped Hazelnuts – Offers a crunchy contrast and enhances the Nutella experience.
These Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes promise a delightful treat that’ll elevate any gathering—enjoy every bite!
How to Make Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two 12-hole cupcake pans with liners. This will ensure your cupcakes bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
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Combine sunflower oil, eggs, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed for about 4 minutes until light and fluffy; this is essential for a delightful texture.
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Sift self-raising flour and salt into the bowl. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed, ensuring a smooth batter without lumps.
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Pour in the whole milk and vanilla extract. Mix slowly until everything is well combined and the batter has a silky consistency.
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Fill the lined cupcake liners with batter, making sure to fill each about two-thirds full. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden.
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Cool the cupcakes in the tin for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a cooling rack. This keeps them from becoming soggy and helps them set properly.
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Beat together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and unsalted butter until crumbly. Gradually add the whipping cream and then mix in Nutella until you achieve a smooth and creamy buttercream frosting.
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Core the centers of each cooled cupcake using a cupcake corer. Fill each cavity with Nutella, creating a delicious surprise in the middle.
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Pipe the Nutella buttercream frosting on top of each cupcake, creating a swirl. Garnish with Ferrero Rocher and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts for that extra special touch!
Optional: Drizzle leftover Nutella on top before serving for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix as directed and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To maintain their fluffy texture, make sure to let the chilled batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. The Nutella filling can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply core the cupcakes, fill them with Nutella, and whip up the buttercream frosting fresh for that airy texture. This allows you to enjoy these delicious cupcakes with minimal effort on busy days!
How to Store and Freeze Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes
Room Temperature: Keep your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you’re planning to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but be aware that the texture may slightly change.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving. For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds!
Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cupcakes—they’re just as delicious with a twist!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat.
- Nut-Free: Use sunbutter in place of Nutella and omit hazelnuts for a safe, nut-free version.
- Less Sweet: Decrease the powdered sugar in the frosting to cater to a lighter palate, without sacrificing flavor.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of espresso powder or a splash of almond extract to the batter for an extra depth of flavor.
- Berry Surprise: Add fresh raspberries or chopped strawberries into the batter for a fruity explosion alongside the Nutella.
- Fudge Filling: Instead of Nutella, fill the cupcakes with chocolate fudge for an even richer experience.
- Spiced Twist: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice into the cupcake batter for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Mini Cupcakes: Bake them in a mini muffin tin for delightful bite-sized treats that are perfect for gatherings!
Explore these variations to suit your taste and make these Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes truly your own!
What to Serve with Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes?
Indulging in a delightful dessert like these cupcakes is even better when paired with complementary dishes that elevate the experience.
- Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed cup balance the sweetness of the cupcakes and enhance the chocolate depth.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, vanilla ice cream adds lusciousness that matches the delectable Nutella filling beautifully.
- Berry Compote: A tangy berry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich cupcakes, cutting through their indulgence with natural acidity.
For a bit more crunch, consider serving these cupcakes with toasted nuts. They add an exciting texture and enhance the overall hazelnut flavor, creating a layered tasting experience.
- Mocha Milkshake: This frosty drink brings together chocolate and coffee for a fun, indulgent twist that echoes the cupcake’s chocolatey notes.
- Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache over your cupcakes takes them over the top for extra elegance and richness.
You’ll find that these pairings not only enhance your Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes but also transform any gathering into a delightful celebration of flavors!
Expert Tips for Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter and fluffier cupcakes.
Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cupcakes. Overmixing can break down the gluten too much.
Use a Timer: Keep an eye on your baking time. Even a minute too long can lead to dry cupcakes. A toothpick should come out clean when they’re done!
Cooling Matters: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to ensure the buttercream doesn’t melt. Patience will pay off with stunning results!
Chilling for Swirls: If your frosting is too soft, chill it for 15 minutes before piping. This will help create beautifully defined swirls on your Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes.
With these tips, you’re set to impress with your delicious cupcakes!
Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients, especially the eggs and nuts?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh, large eggs with clean, uncracked shells—this will ensure proper flavor and texture. For the hazelnuts, choose whole, raw nuts with a light, uniform color. Avoid any that show dark spots or signs of mold.
How should I store leftover Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes?
For optimal freshness, keep your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days; just remember they might get a bit denser in the fridge, so enjoy them at room temperature for the best bite!
Can I freeze Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes and how?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze, first allow the cupcakes to cool completely. Then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply move the cupcakes to the fridge overnight, then bring them to room temperature before enjoying.
What should I do if my cupcakes come out dry?
If your Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or old ingredients. Always check for doneness a minute or two before the specified time. If they do come out dry, you can try enhancing them with a simple syrup (just equal parts sugar and water) brushed gently over the tops for moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! These cupcakes contain gluten, dairy, and nuts, so if you have allergies, you might consider gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, and Nutella alternatives made from nut-free ingredients. Always check labels to ensure that the products suit your dietary needs.
How do I create a fluffy buttercream frosting?
To achieve a deliciously fluffy Nutella buttercream, be sure to beat your butter first until it’s light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then slowly mix in the whipping cream. If the frosting feels too soft, chill it for about 15 minutes before using to achieve perfection!
Irresistible Vanilla Nutella Cupcakes for Sweet Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two 12-hole cupcake pans with liners.
- Combine sunflower oil, eggs, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl and beat on medium-high speed for about 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Sift self-raising flour and salt into the bowl, gradually adding to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed.
- Pour in the whole milk and vanilla extract, mixing slowly until well combined.
- Fill the lined cupcake liners with batter, two-thirds full, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cupcakes in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Beat together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and unsalted butter until crumbly. Gradually add whipping cream and then mix in Nutella until smooth.
- Core the centers of each cooled cupcake and fill with Nutella.
- Pipe Nutella buttercream frosting on top of each cupcake and garnish with Ferrero Rocher and chopped hazelnuts.