Santa Claus Cupcakes

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Red and white icing
• Red, white, and black candy decorations

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cupcake pans with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and hot water until smooth. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat until just incorporated. Stir in cocoa mixture until blended.
5. Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool completely before icing.
7. Decorate cupcakes with red and white icing and candy decorations.

Interesting Facts

• These cupcakes are a great way to spread Christmas cheer to friends and family!
• This recipe makes 24 cupcakes.
• Feel free to get creative with decorations; you can use any colors or candies you like!