Small Batch Chocolate Cupcakes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Small Batch Chocolate Cupcakes

01 - 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
02 - 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
03 - 1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (lightly packed)
04 - 1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
07 - 1/8 teaspoon Salt
08 - 1 large Egg
09 - 1/4 cup Milk
10 - 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
11 - 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
12 - 2 tablespoons Hot Water
13 - 1/2 teaspoon Espresso Powder

→ Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

14 - 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
15 - 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sifted)
16 - 1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
17 - 1/8 teaspoon Salt
18 - 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
19 - 2 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream

# Instructions:

01 - Adjust the oven rack to the 2nd position, preheat to 350°F (175°C), and line the middle rows of a cupcake tin with liners. Set aside.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
03 - In a medium bowl, whisk together egg, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and hot water dissolved with espresso powder.
04 - Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
05 - Divide the batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
06 - Bake the cupcakes at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a slight dome on top.
07 - Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes. Remove and cool completely before frosting.
08 - Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter on medium-high until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
09 - Add sifted powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until combined.
10 - Add heavy whipping cream and mix on low speed until smooth, adjusting cream quantity for desired consistency. Scrape down the bowl as needed.

# Notes:

01 - Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to neatly fill cupcake liners.
02 - Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure light and fluffy cupcakes.