Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.

- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into a large mixing bowl. This ensures a lump-free, smooth batter.

- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

- One at a time, add the eggs to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition, until the batter is smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition until just combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.

- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Gently tap the tin on the counter to remove air bubbles.

- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until the tops crack slightly and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack and cool completely before frosting.

- Once cooled, decorate with tangy cream cheese frosting of your choice, spreading it smoothly over the cupcake tops for a luscious finish.

Notes
Ensure cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting. You can add food coloring or spices to customize your cupcakes.
