Nutella Swirl Cupcakes: 5 Steps to Pure Bliss

Name: Nutella Swirl Cupcakes: 5 Steps to Pure Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup Nutella

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 23, 2025

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There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and Nutella that just makes my heart skip a beat! These Nutella Swirl Cupcakes are the ultimate treat, combining fluffy chocolate cake with that creamy, dreamy Nutella swirl. I mean, who wouldn’t want a bite of that? Trust me, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a cozy afternoon with friends, or just because you deserve a little sweetness in your life.

One of my favorite memories is baking these cupcakes with my niece. We giggled and made a delightful mess in the kitchen, swirling Nutella into the batter like we were creating a masterpiece. The smiles on our faces when we pulled those warm cupcakes from the oven were priceless. The aroma filled the house, and we couldn’t wait to dive in! So, get your ingredients ready – you’re in for a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Nutella Swirl Cupcakes - detail 1

Ingredients for Nutella Swirl Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour: This will be the base of your cupcakes, giving them structure and fluffiness.
1/2 cup sugar: This adds sweetness that perfectly balances the rich chocolate flavor.
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: For that deep, chocolatey goodness that makes each bite irresistible.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cupcakes rise, making them light and airy.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: A little boost to ensure those cupcakes puff up beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors and bring out the sweetness.
1/2 cup milk: This adds moisture and richness to the batter, keeping the cupcakes tender.
1/4 cup vegetable oil: For a moist texture that keeps the cupcakes fresh longer.
1 large egg: This binds everything together and helps with that lovely rise.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
1/2 cup Nutella: The star of the show! This creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread swirled into the batter creates that luscious, decadent touch.

How to Prepare Nutella Swirl Cupcakes

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because you want your cupcakes to bake evenly and rise perfectly. While the oven warms up, grab a muffin tin and line it with your favorite cupcake liners. I love using colorful ones to make everything look extra festive!

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Grab a whisk and stir everything together until well mixed. This step is super important because it ensures that all those dry ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a deliciously uniform flavor in every bite!

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. I always take a moment to admire that glossy mixture before moving on. It’s the secret to keeping your cupcakes moist and fluffy! Just make sure everything is well blended.

Combine Mixtures

Now, it’s time to merge the two worlds! Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold them together until just combined. Here’s a pro tip: don’t overmix! You want to leave a few flour streaks visible. This will help keep your cupcakes light and airy.

Fill Cupcake Liners

Time to fill those liners! Spoon the batter into each liner until they’re about halfway full. Next, add a generous dollop of Nutella right on top of the batter. Use a toothpick or a skewer to swirl it gently into the batter—it’s like painting a little masterpiece! Then, cover the Nutella with more batter until the liners are about three-quarters full. This way, they’ll rise beautifully and create that gorgeous swirl effect.

Baking and Cooling

Pop your muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re golden! Once they’re baked to perfection, let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step is essential—it allows the cupcakes to finish setting up and makes them easier to handle later.

Tips for Success

To make your Nutella Swirl Cupcakes truly shine, here are a few handy tips! First, swirling the Nutella into the batter can be a bit of an art. Use a toothpick or a skewer to create those mesmerizing swirls, but remember – less is more! You want to see some of that Nutella peeking through rather than mixing it completely in.

For the best texture, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps everything blend together smoothly and creates that light, fluffy cupcake you’re after. Also, don’t skip the cooling time! Letting them cool on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy.

As for storage, keep your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for a few days, but I doubt they’ll last that long because they’re just too delicious! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them – just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Nutritional Information for Nutella Swirl Cupcakes

Before we dig into these delightful cupcakes, it’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, this information is just a general guide. Each Nutella Swirl Cupcake typically contains about 200 calories, with 10 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, and 25 grams of carbohydrates. You’ll also find 15 grams of sugar in each cupcake, along with 150 mg of sodium. Keep in mind that these values can change, so feel free to adjust according to your preferences or dietary needs!

FAQ about Nutella Swirl Cupcakes

Can I use a different type of nut spread?
Absolutely! While Nutella brings that signature chocolate-hazelnut flavor, you can experiment with other nut spreads like almond butter or peanut butter. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly, but hey, a little adventure in the kitchen is always fun!

How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Nutella Swirl Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for about 3-4 days. If you find yourself with extras (which is rare, trust me!), you can freeze them! Just wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag. They’ll be ready to enjoy later.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 ratio blend for the best results. I recommend checking the blend’s packaging to see if it contains xanthan gum, which helps with texture. Your Nutella Swirl Cupcakes will still be deliciously moist and chocolatey!

Can I make these cupcakes in advance?
Definitely! You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Just wait to swirl in the Nutella until you’re ready to serve, or do it right after baking for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

Why You’ll Love Nutella Swirl Cupcakes

Quick Preparation: These cupcakes come together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them a breeze to whip up for any occasion!
Delicious Flavor: The rich chocolate combined with the creamy Nutella swirl creates a decadent flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, a casual gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress.
Fun to Make: Get creative with the Nutella swirl! It’s a delightful way to involve family or friends in the baking process.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love these cupcakes! They’re not only tasty but also fun to decorate and share.

Serving Suggestions

These Nutella Swirl Cupcakes are a delight on their own, but why not take it up a notch? I love pairing them with a steaming cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat – the rich flavors of chocolate and Nutella just dance together with the coffee! If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cupcake, creating a heavenly combination. And don’t forget about a tall glass of milk – it’s a classic that never fails! Feel free to get creative; your taste buds will thank you!