Ingredients
Method
FOR THE CUPCAKES:
- In a large bowl, beat together oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla, buttermilk, and gel food coloring. In a second, medium bowl, stir together the flour, cocoa powder, salt and baking powder.
- Slowly start to beat the dry ingredients into the wet just until they are all fully incorporated. In a small bowl, mix together the baking soda and vinegar.
- Beat into the batter until incorporated then spoon into muffin tins lined with cupcake wrappers.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for 18-20 minutes, or just until the center of the cupcakes bounce back when touched lightly.
- Cool completely before frosting.
FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FROSTING:
- In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter and shortening.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat until light and fluffy.
- Color with food coloring, if desired.