Name: Dark Wings Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the cupcakes:; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; ½ cup whole milk; ¼ cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup boiling water; For the frosting:; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup dark cocoa powder; Black gel food coloring (to desired darkness); 2–3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency); For the wings:; Black candy melts (or substitute black licorice or dark chocolate); Parchment paper and piping bag or plastic bag (for shaping wings)

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These Dark Wings Cupcakes are a hauntingly delicious treat perfect for Halloween or any spooky-themed party. They feature rich chocolate cupcakes topped with dark cocoa frosting and dramatic candy wings that give them their eerie name and captivating appearance.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cupcakes combine classic chocolate flavor with a spooky twist. The dark cocoa frosting is incredibly indulgent, and the candy wings make them a show-stopping dessert. They’re also surprisingly easy to assemble, and they bring a dramatic flair to any Halloween table or themed event.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Eggs
Whole milk
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Boiling water
Dark cocoa powder (for frosting)
Unsalted butter
Powdered sugar
Black food coloring (gel-based preferred)
Candy melts or black licorice for wings

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with black or Halloween-themed liners.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
I add in the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Slowly, I pour in the boiling water and stir the batter until smooth—it’ll be thin, but that’s perfect.
I divide the batter evenly among the liners and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the cupcakes cool, I make the frosting by beating butter until fluffy, then slowly adding powdered sugar and dark cocoa powder.
I add black food coloring until I reach the perfect dark, eerie shade.
For the wings, I melt black candy melts and pipe wing shapes on parchment, letting them cool completely.
Once the cupcakes are frosted, I insert the wings into each cupcake to create the “Dark Wings” look.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, so I have a full batch ready in under 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne to the batter for a spicy twist. If I’m not making these for Halloween, I swap out the black food coloring for vibrant colors and make angel wings instead of dark ones for a fun alternative.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want to keep them longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week and let them come to room temperature before serving. The wings are best added just before serving to prevent them from softening.

FAQs

What makes the frosting so dark?

I use dark cocoa powder and black gel food coloring to get that deep, almost black color in the frosting. It gives a dramatic look without compromising on taste.

Can I make the wings ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the candy wings a day or two ahead. I store them in a cool, dry place until I’m ready to decorate.

Can I use a boxed cake mix?

Definitely. If I’m short on time, I use a chocolate boxed cake mix and focus on the frosting and decorations.

What can I use instead of candy melts?

I sometimes use black licorice cut into wing shapes or even black chocolate for a similar look.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, I freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to a month. I just make sure to wrap them well and frost them fresh when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Dark Wings Cupcakes are a spooky showstopper that bring drama and delight to the dessert table. I love how easy they are to make, and their dark, chocolatey flavor always hits the spot. Whether it’s Halloween or just a dark dessert craving, these cupcakes never disappoint.