Mocha Java Chip Cupcakes...for Grown-ups only

     Just like the next person, I really enjoy a cup of good java. Whether hot or cold, it is the perfect pick-me-up.
     One flavor I personally enjoy is a frosty tumbler of mocha java chip. So why not make cupcakes as a tribute to this favorite? A word of warning though: keep these goodies away from the kids. The double effect of caffeine  from the chocolate and coffee would have them bouncing off the walls in no time. Better safe than sorry.

Mocha Cupcakes

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups refined sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup water
1/2 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

Instructions
1. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt together in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Mix together milk, water, cocoa powder and coffee granules. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar for 5 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition.
5. At low mixer speed, add flour mixture alternately with the liquid mixture.
6. Spoon into paper-lined muffin pans.
7. Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
8. Cool cupcakes completely on racks.

Mocha Java Chip Buttercream
2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
1 tablespoon hot water
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh milk
2 cups sifted confectioner's powdered sugar
1/4 cup grated dark chocolate

Decoration
chocolate coffee beans

Instructions
1. Dissolve coffee granules in hot water. Cool to room temperature. Add to milk.
2. Cream butter at medium speed till light and fluffy.
3. At low mixer speed, add powdered sugar in two batches.
4. Slowly add in coffee/milk mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Stir in grated chocolate.
5. Pipe rosettes on top of cupcakes.
6. Decorate with chocolate coffee beans.

Makes 24 pieces regular-sized cupcakes.