Raspberry Chocolate Lava Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk (or substitute with ½ cup milk + ½ tablespoon lemon juice)
• ½ cup cocoa powder

  For the Filling:

  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup fresh raspberries (or raspberry jam)

  For the Topping (Optional):

  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh raspberries
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

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  Step-by-Step Instructions

  Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and set aside.

  Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

  Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

  Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

  1. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

     Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

     1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

     Step 6: Assemble the Cupcakes

     1. Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the batter.
     2. Place 3-4 chocolate chips and 1-2 fresh raspberries (or a small spoonful of raspberry jam) in the center of each cupcake.
     3. Cover the filling with more batter until the liners are about ¾ full.

     Step 7: Bake

     1. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft.
     2. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

     Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

     1. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream.
     2. Serve warm for the ultimate gooey experience!

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     Tips for Perfect Raspberry Chocolate Lava Cupcakes

     1. Don’t Overbake: The key to the lava center is slightly underbaking the cupcakes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
     2. Use Fresh Raspberries: Fresh raspberries add a burst of tangy flavor, but raspberry jam works well too.
     3. Experiment with Fillings: Try using white chocolate chips, caramel, or even peanut butter for a different twist.
     4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter and filling ahead of time and assemble the cupcakes just before baking.
     5. Serve Warm: These cupcakes are best enjoyed warm, when the chocolate center is still gooey.

     Serving Suggestions

     • With Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
     • For a Party: Arrange the cupcakes on a platter and watch them disappear!
     • As a Treat: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.