Mocha Cupcakes

Directions

• Step 1
  Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Step 2
  In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• Step 3
  In a separate bowl, whisk together oil, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, vinegar, and water until smooth. Gently stir wet ingredients into flour mixture, stirring until there are no large lumps. Pour batter into paper-lined cupcake pans until ¾ full.
• Step 4
  Bake 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cupcakes.
• Step 5
  To make frosting, combine shortening, margarine and 1 cup powdered sugar in a large bowl. Beat at medium speed until smooth. Beat in coffee and remaining ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Add remaining powdered sugar and continue to beat until fluffy.
• Step 6
  Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and place on wire racks to cool completely.
• Step 7
  Spread frosting on cooled cupcakes and store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.