### Delicious Chocolate Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Oreo Buttercream Frosting
#### Introduction
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of these homemade cupcakes paired with a creamy, cheesecake-like Oreo frosting. Perfect for any special occasion or simply as an after-dinner treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
#### Ingredients
**For the Cupcakes:**
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
**For the Frosting:**
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 and 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tbsp milk
- Crushed Oreo cookies (about 20 cookies)
#### Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
- Cupcake liners
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Preparing the Oven and Baking Pan
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a standard cupcake pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
#### Making the Cupcakes
1. In a large bowl, **mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and baking soda**.
2. Add in the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined but not too smooth.
3. Gradually add **the boiling water**, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The batter will be thin.
4. Spoon the batter into your prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
#### Baking
1. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
2. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
#### Making the Buttercream Frosting
1. In a mixing bowl, **beat the cream cheese** using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar while continuing to beat on medium speed.
3. Add in the softened butter and mix well.
4. With the mixer on low, slowly pour in the milk. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
#### Assembling
1. Once your cupcakes are completely cooled, use a small piping bag or plastic bag with a corner snipped off to pipe the frosting onto each cupcake.
2. Sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies over the frosting for added texture and flavor.
### Tips for Success
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- For an extra decadent touch, chill the frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator briefly before serving.
- Experiment with different types of Oreos or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
#### Conclusion
Enjoy these rich chocolate cupcakes topped with a delicious cream cheese Oreo frosting. Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays and anniversaries to just enjoying a sweet treat at home! Share your creations with friends and family using #ChocolateCupcakesOreoFrosting on social media!
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a mouthwatering dessert that will leave everyone wanting seconds.