When we think of classic, homestyle desserts, cupcakes top the list. And when those cupcakes are chocolate cupcakes with cream cheese frosting? Sign us up every single time.

These aren't just any cupcakes. These are the perfect cupcakes. The buttermilk makes these fluffy and moist, the coffee adds a hint of something sophisticated (don't worry the kiddos won't notice and it won't disrupt naptime) and the cream cheese frosting seals the deal. They're so easy and so impressive that you'll no doubt make these chocolate cupcakes with cream cheese frosting again and again.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup cocoa
2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup cold coffee or milk
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup canola or other mild vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla

For frosting

1 8-oz (250 g) pkg cream cheese, at room temperature
1/4 cup butter, at room temperature
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp milk or water
2 tsp vanilla

Instructions for Chocolate Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the coffee or milk, buttermilk, oil, eggs and vanilla. Then, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. (NOTE: For an extra hit of chocolate-y flavour, you can stir in 1 cups of chocolate chips at this point!)

Grease two muffin tins or prepare two muffins tins with muffin liners. Divide the batter between the tins, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 30-35 min, until tops are springy to the touch. Tip the cupcakes on their sides in their tins to help allow steam to escape. Allow to cool completely before frosting.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter for a few minutes, until smooth and fluffy; gradually beat in the powdered sugar, milk and vanilla until you have a soft, spreadable consistency. (NOTE: If icing is too thick, you can a little extra milk, 1 tbsp at a time. If the consistency is too runny, you can add a little more icing sugar, 1-2 tbsp at a time.) 

When cupcakes are cool, smooth frosting over each top. Decorate at will! Your kiddos will love adding M&Ms, sprinkles and other fun topppings.

Makes 18 to 24 dozen chocolate cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.