These rich, tender chocolate cupcakes have a deep cocoa flavor and a soft, moist crumb. The simple batter comes together easily with a mixer, and piping it into the cupcake liners makes it easy to portion the cupcakes evenly. They are delicious plain or can be finished with your favorite frosting.

   This elegant chocolate pancake roll combines thin cocoa crêpes with a creamy filling, tender prunes, and a rich chocolate ganache. The roll is chilled until firm, then covered with chocolate and finished with chopped nuts. It is a beautiful make-ahead dessert—the layers become even more flavorful and easier to slice after several hours in the refrigerator.