CHOCOLATE MARBLE CUPCAKES

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### Instructions

#### 1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

#### 2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

#### 3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

#### 4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

#### 5. Create the Chocolate Batter
In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder and hot water until smooth. Take about ⅓ of the vanilla batter and stir in the cocoa mixture to create the chocolate batter.

#### 6. Fill the Cupcake Liners
Spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters into the cupcake liners, alternating layers. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the batters together, creating a marbled effect.

#### 7. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

#### 8. Frost (Optional)
If desired, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Divide the frosting and mix cocoa powder into half for a marbled effect. Pipe or spread onto the cooled cupcakes.

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### Tips for Perfect Marble Cupcakes
– **Don’t Overmix**: Swirl the batters gently to maintain the distinct marbled pattern.
– **Room Temperature Ingredients**: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
– **Experiment with Flavors**: Add almond extract or coffee to the chocolate batter for a twist.

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### Final Thoughts
Chocolate Marble Cupcakes are a timeless dessert that offers a delightful surprise with every bite. The beautiful swirls and dual flavors make them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, tea party, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress.

Enjoy baking (and eating) these irresistible treats!