The Devil's Food Cake

 

Yield: 24 cupcakes

Prep Time:  15 minutes

Bake Time: 16 - 18 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups cake flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup hot water

1/2 cup dark cocoa powder

1/2 cup butter, at room temperature

1 1/4 cup sugar

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Line cupcake tins with paper cups.

2.  In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

3.  Combine hot water and cocoa in a liquid measuring cup.  Stir the mixture until the cocoa is completely dissolved.  Set aside to cool.  The mixture will have a frosting like consistency.

4.  In another liquid measuring cup, combine the buttermilk and vanilla, and stir until well mixed.

5.  In a large mixing bowl combine the butter and sugar, and beat on medium speed until well blended and light in color.  Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.  Scrape down the sides of the bowl as need be.

6.  Add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk mixture, and ending with the dry ingredients.  Add the cooled cocoa mixture, and beat until smooth.

7.  Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake tins.  Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.  Allow cupcakes to cool on a rack.