Chocolate Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups flour, 0.5 cup cocoa powder, 1 cup sugar, 1 tsp baking soda, and 0.5 tsp salt.

Step 3

Add 0.5 cup vegetable oil, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 cup water. Mix until just combined; batter will be thin.

Step 4

Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 18-20 minutes.

Step 5

Cool cupcakes in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6

For frosting: beat 0.5 cup softened butter with 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp milk until fluffy. Frost cooled cupcakes and dust with cocoa powder.