Cake Batter

• 1 cup All-purpose flour (Swap with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.)
• 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (Make sure it’s unsweetened for the best results.)
• 1 tsp Baking soda (Avoid substituting with baking powder.)
• 1/4 tsp Salt (Consider using kosher salt for a deeper taste.)
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (For a dairy-free twist, use non-dairy butter instead.)
• 1 cup Sugar (You can replace it with a sugar substitute if desired.)
• 2 large Eggs (You can use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract (Always opt for pure vanilla for the best outcome.)
• 1/2 cup Buttermilk (Substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice or non-dairy milk.)
• 1 cup Boiling water (This step is essential, so don’t skip it!)
• 1 tbsp Raspberry preserves (Gives you that unforgettable molten center.)

Frosting

• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Replace with non-dairy butter for a lighter option.)
• 2 cups Powdered sugar (Sugar substitutes can offer a lighter sweetness.)
• 1/3 cup Raspberry puree (Use fresh or frozen raspberries, blended smooth.)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract (Just like in the cupcake batter, pure vanilla is key.)
• 1 pinch Pinch of salt (Balances sweetness.)

Garnish

• 1/2 cup Fresh raspberries (Use these for garnish.)