Step 1

Heat oven to 325 degrees F. Line cupcake pans with 24 cupcake liners.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, sugar, cocoa and flour. Mix to combine. Add in water, eggs, vanilla extract, mini chocolate chips if using, and sour cream to the dry ingredients and mix well using an electric mixer. Mix for approximately two minutes.

Step 3

Scoop cupcake batter into cupcake liners. I like to use an ice cream scoop or large cookie scoop to scoop my batter. Batter should fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 of the way full. Place cupcakes in oven to bake for 15-20 minutes or until center springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely on cooling racks.

Step 4

Once cooled completely, frost with your favorite frosting recipe. Here is one that I like to use.

Step 5

Beat butter in medium bowl. Add powdered sugar and cocoa alternately with milk, beating to spreading consistency (additional milk may be needed). Stir in vanilla. Mix well to combine. Frost your cupcakes.