Dark chocolate is a common ingredient in gourmet cupcakes.
There are almost as many different types of gourmet cupcakes as there are people who enjoy them. Basically, there are countless different varieties of chocolate and vanilla flavors, often customized with various flavors of frosting to make them more interesting. Of course, gourmet cupcakes go way beyond chocolate and vanilla, from seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice or gingerbread to fruity flavors like strawberry or banana. Other types of cupcakes can be made for people with special dietary needs, such as those with egg allergies, diabetics, or those following a vegan diet.
Gingerbread muffins contain dried ginger.
Some bakeries even make custom gourmet cupcakes and customize them for special events. For example, in addition to cake and frosting flavors, a bakery can customize gourmet cupcakes with different filling flavors. Lemon and raspberry fillings are frequent favorites, as are various types of chocolate or caramel fillings. Another slightly less common but no less impressive method of making a gourmet cupcake is to bake different baked goods inside the cupcake. For example, some bakeries may bake a different flavor of cake, or even a miniature cake or cake inside a cupcake.
Seasonal gourmet cupcake options are a frequent staple at holiday parties or other special events. For example, mint or gingerbread flavored muffins are often found at winter parties, while pumpkin or apple muffins are often made in the fall. Some people find these seasonal gourmet cupcakes to be a great gift, especially for the host or hostess of a Christmas party. Other slightly more summery flavors, like fruity cupcakes, are often served at outdoor picnics or summer parties. Bakeries often experiment with other flavors as well, in an attempt to find new and unique flavors.
Those with special dietary needs can also enjoy gourmet cupcakes. There are many patisseries that make cupcakes that are gluten-free, for people who are allergic or sensitive to gluten, or sugar-free for those who shouldn’t eat sugar. Vegan options are prepared without the use of animal products such as milk or eggs. Those with peanut allergies can request cupcakes that have been prepared separately from other baked goods that may include nuts. Some bakeries even make low-carb cupcakes designed for people who are on a diet or just trying to reduce the amount of carbs in their diet.