In The loop

Oct 18, 2026

Chocolate Cupcakes Have a Little Coffee Secret

Magnolia Bakery’s official product photograph of a chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting and colorful sprinkles; illustrative, not a claim that the cupcake contains espresso powder.

National Chocolate Cupcake Day comes with a useful little baking trick: espresso powder can make chocolate taste more chocolatey.

National Chocolate Cupcake Day
When: Sunday, October 18
Try: About a teaspoon of espresso powder in a chocolate recipe, following King Arthur’s guidance
Baking guide: Baking with espresso powder

Small amounts deepen the chocolate flavor; larger amounts move things toward mocha. Use the fine, dissolvable powder intended for baking. The cupcake recipe you already love can keep its job.