Step 1

Line muffin tin with paper liners. Heat oven to 350*F.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, stir together sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Step 3

Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for one minute.

Step 4

Stir in boiling water (the batter will be thin, don’t worry, this is right).

Step 5

Fill liners 2/3 full with batter. (I usually put the batter into a large measuring cup with a pour spout, and then pour the batter into the liners.)

Step 6

Bake cupcakes for approximately 18-22 minutes.

Step 7

Cool completely on wire rack before frosting.

Step 8

Place butter in a large mixing bowl and beat until smooth. Add cream cheese and blend until fully combined and smooth, about 30 seconds.

Step 9

Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar and blend on low speed until combined. Increase to medium speed and beat until it begins to get fluffy.

Step 10

Slowly add the heavy cream, a little bit at a time until desired consistency is met. (Don’t add too much if you want the frosting to stay in place when piped on cupcakes.)

Step 11

Beat until fluffy, about 1 minute.

Step 12

Use at once or keep refrigerated. (This frosting will keep well in the refrigerator for several days, but you may need to re-beat it for the best texture.)

Step 13

Beat all ingredients until stiff peaks form.

Step 14

Spoon some of the thick white icing into individual bowls and add coloring .

Step 15

Add additional water, about 1 teaspoon at a time until you’ve reached the consistency you need.