Ingredients
Method
Preparing the Oven and Muffin Tin
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners.
Making the Cupcake Batter
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together.
- In a large bowl, mix the eggs, sugar (or xylitol), and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Combine the cooled butter-chocolate mixture into the egg mixture.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients alternating with the buttermilk into the egg mixture and mix until just combined.
- Fill the muffin liners evenly with batter and bake for about 16-18 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Preparing the Buttercream
- Combine egg whites, sugar, and salt over a pot of simmering water and mix until the temperature reaches 71°C (160°F).
- Whisk on high speed until it forms a thick meringue at room temperature.
- Gradually add softened butter and mix until fluffy.
- Color buttercream portions as desired.
Decorating the Cupcakes
- Cut a small well in each cupcake and fill with red jelly or jam.
- Pipe swirls of green buttercream on top.
- Decorate with strawberries and pipe additional colors for effect.
- Use dark green buttercream to create vines and leaves around the cupcakes.
Notes
Consider using sugar substitutes to reduce calories. Store cupcakes in the fridge for up to a week.
