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Baked Salmon with Mocha Cupcakes

moka coffee pot
Tender, oven-baked salmon followed by rich, coffee-infused chocolate cupcakes—because moderation is for the weak.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Baked Salmon:

  • Salmon fillets – 4 pieces 6 oz each
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp for that silky finish
  • Lemon juice – 2 tbsp for a citrus kick
  • Garlic – 2 cloves minced
  • Paprika – 1 tsp for a little smoky depth
  • Salt – ½ tsp season like you mean it
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp
  • Fresh dill – 1 tbsp chopped

For the Mocha Cupcakes:

  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup
  • Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
  • Cocoa powder – ⅓ cup
  • Baking powder – 1 tsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Egg – 1 room temperature
  • Milk – ½ cup
  • Butter – ¼ cup melted
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Strong brewed coffee – ½ cup hot, for the best flavor

Instructions
 

For the Baked Salmon:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Place salmon fillets on the sheet and pat them dry.
  • Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  • Brush the salmon generously with the mixture.
  • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until flaky.
  • Sprinkle with fresh dill before serving.

For the Mocha Cupcakes:

  • Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  • Add egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  • Stir until combined, then pour in hot coffee and mix until smooth.
  • Divide batter among cupcake liners.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool before eating—if you have the patience.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

Calories: 620
Total Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 38g

Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Vitamin B12 – 22%
  • Iron – 15%
  • Calcium – 10%
  • Vitamin D – 25%
  • Magnesium – 12%

Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor for the Recipe

  • Use wild-caught salmon for the best taste and texture.
  • Brush honey on the salmon for a slight caramelized glaze.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon to the mocha cupcakes for extra depth.
  • Serve with steamed asparagus for a complete meal (if you’re feeling responsible).
  • Pair with espresso for an extra caffeine punch—because why stop at one hit?