Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 F

Step 2

In a large bowl mix together sugar and oil until well combined.

Step 3

Beat in eggs until mixture is uniform in color.

Step 4

Add in buttermilk, vanilla extract and food coloring.

Step 5

Mix until well combined.

Step 6

Mix in hot water and distilled vinegar.

Step 7

Add flour.

Step 8

Mix together baking soda, baking powder, salt and add to bowl.

Step 9

Add in cocoa powder.

Step 10

Mix to combine all ingredients.

Step 11

Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.

Step 12

Pour 1/4 cup of batter into each liner.

Step 13

Bake to 18-20 minutes or until tops are spongey to the touch. (do not over cook. SEET NOTE*)

Step 14

Remove from oven and let cupcakes sit in pan for 5 minutes.

Step 15

Place cupcakes on a cooling wrack to finish cooling.

Step 16

Make the frosting by creaming together cream cheese and butter. Slowly add in powdered sugar and beat until creamy.