For the Mocha Cupcakes: (Yield: 1 dozen)

1 1/3 C flour
1/2 C unsweetened cocoa powder (I used Hershey's brand)
1 t baking powder
1/2 t baking soda
1/4 t  salt
1/4 t ground cinnamon


1 1/2 t coffee powder (I used hazelnut-flavored coffee) dissolved in 1/2 C hot H20
1 t pure vanilla extract
1/2 C whole milk (sour cream or yogurt would do)


1 stick unsalted butter (softened)
1 C sugar
1 egg

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
1 stick unsalted butter (softened)
3 C confectioner's sugar
1/4 C milk
1 t pure vanilla extract
food coloring