Mary Berry's Chocolate Orange Cupcakes

Mary Berry's Chocolate Orange Cupcakes are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and zesty orange flavors. These cupcakes offer a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus tang, making them an irresistible treat. Mary Berry, a renowned British food writer and television presenter, is celebrated for her straightforward and delicious baking recipes. Her Chocolate Orange Cupcakes are no exception, embodying her philosophy of simple yet scrumptious home baking.

Ingredients List

• Sponge Ingredients:
  • 100g softened butter
  • 150g self-raising flour
  • 150g caster sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons orange extract
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• Buttercream Ingredients:
  • 100g butter
  • 225g sifted icing sugar
  • Half teaspoon vanilla/orange extract

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparation of the Sponge:
   • Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
   • Line a muffin tin with cupcake cases.
   • Cream together the butter and caster sugar in a large bowl.
   • Beat in the eggs.
   • Sift in the flour and cocoa powder and mix until smooth.
   • Divide the mixture evenly between the cupcake cases.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes until risen and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
   • Cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Preparation of the Buttercream:
   • Beat together butter, icing sugar, and vanilla/orange extract to create a smooth soft buttercream.
   • Once the cupcakes are cool, apply the buttercream, ideally using a piping bag for a neater finish.

Storage and Reheating

• Store the cupcakes in an airtight container.
• They are best consumed within 2-3 days.
• Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the sponge.
• For reheating, a quick zap in the microwave can soften the buttercream if it hardens.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional information for this recipe is not provided, here is an estimated breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g (Varies with buttercream)
• Carbohydrates: 45-55g
• Protein: 3-5g
• Sugar: 30-35g

Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
  Yes, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free variety and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Can I freeze these cupcakes?
  Yes, freeze without the buttercream. Add fresh buttercream after thawing.
• Can I use fresh orange juice instead of extract?
  Fresh orange zest can be used for a more natural flavor, but the extract provides a stronger orange taste.

Mary Berry's Chocolate Orange Cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly combines chocolate and orange. They are relatively simple to make, store well, and are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive celebration, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful treats!

This recipe is an adaptation of Mary Berry's original recipe.