Mocha Cupcakes with Orange/Chocolate Frosting

Published October 27, 2013

Mocha Cupcakes with Orange/Chocolate Buttercream

I wanted a dessert for a clambake I was attending. Something fun with a seasonal look. I decided to make cupcakes. They are always a favorite. I used a cake mix to start. The only brand I like is Duncan Hines so I used their dark fudge chocolate cake mix. I like making cakes from scratch but it was late and I wanted something fast. I also decided on two frostings so I could have a swirled effect. One was a classic buttercream- flavored with orange juice and vanilla. The second was a chocolate frosting. The end result was really good. Moist, tasty and as expected, a big hit.

Mocha Cupcakes with Orange/Chocolate Frosting

1 box chocolate cake mix – I used Duncan Hines

1 T. instant coffee powder

eggs, water and oil- following package directions

1 recipe orange frosting, recipe follows

1 recipe chocolate frosting, recipe follows

Prepare cake mix according to instructions on the box. Before adding the water dissolve the instant coffee in the water. Bake cupcakes according to time listed on the box. Cool before frosting. Place both frostings in a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe frosting on in a swirl. Frosting colors will blend somewhat. Makes 24.

Orange Buttercream

1 c. butter, softened

1/4 c. orange juice concentrate, thawed

1 T. vanilla

4-5 c. powdered sugar

a few drops of orange food coloring, optional

Beat butter until fluffy. Beat in remaining ingredients and beat several minutes on high until light and fluffy.

Chocolate Frosting

1/2 c. butter, softened

1 T.vanilla

1/2 c. cocoa powder

2 c. powdered sugar

2 T. milk

Beat butter until fluffy. Add remaining ingredients and beat until smooth. Beat on high for several minutes until light and fluffy.

Posted in Cooking