Cheesecake Stuffed Halloween Cupcakes

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped chocolate and cocoa powder.
2. Stir in the hot coffee until the chocolate is completely melted.
3. Chill the mixture in the fridge for about 20 minutes.
4. After cooling, whisk in the vegetable oil, eggs, white vinegar, and vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, bread flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture and whisk until smooth.
7. Line a cupcake pan with liners.
8. Spoon a thin layer of batter into each liner.
9. Take the frozen mini pumpkin cheesecakes out of the freezer.
10. Remove them from their molds, then press two cheesecakes together back-to-back and place in the center of each liner, making sure all pumpkin faces point the same direction. Use a marker on the pan to remember orientation.
11. Fill each liner with more batter to cover the cheesecakes.
12. Let the filled cups sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
13. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F.
14. Bake for 20–22 minutes until the edges are set and the centers are puffed.
15. As they cool, the centers will sink a little.
16. Let the cupcakes cool completely.
17. Place the 12 ounces of chocolate in a food processor.
18. Pulse until it becomes fine crumbs.
19. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.
20. Stir frequently until it just begins to boil, then pour it over the chocolate in the processor. Cover and let sit for 2–3 minutes.
21. Pulse the mixture for 3 seconds.
22. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
23. Pulse for another 5 seconds until the ganache is smooth.
24. Transfer the ganache to a bowl and refrigerate for 15 minutes, then stir.
25. Return to the fridge for an additional 15 minutes.
26. Using an electric mixer, beat the ganache until it becomes lighter in color.
27. Immediately fill a piping bag fitted with a large star tip with the frosting and pipe large swirls over the cooled cupcakes.
28. Optionally, top with Halloween sprinkles or candy.