Chocolate Cupcakes

Here we go with cupcake test run #4! These chocolate cupcakes were probably the easiest to make simply because they are the only ones that start with a box cake mix. Until probably a year ago, this was the only way I knew how to make cupcakes. This all changed when I began addicted to Google Reader and all of the fun baking blogs out there and began experimenting with from-scratch recipes. I still sometimes think the ones that come from box mixes are the best, but I'm not afraid to try new recipes. I loved the simplicity of this recipe. Simply prepare a chocolate cake mix as directed, then add sour cream, mini chocolate chips, and pudding.

The resulting cupcake is rich, moist, and super chocolatey. I had planned on taking these to last week's Wednesday night get together, but it began storming and I didn't want to drive the 30 miles there. This meant I was stuck with 2 dozen cupcakes! Don't worry though, Andy, Luke and I have been enjoying them and eating way more than our fair share. Andy took the rest with him to work yesterday (since he forgot them on Friday). I think his coworkers were very happy!

The Most Amazing Chocolate Cake… Ever!
Source: Whipperberry

1 Chocolate Cake Mix (any kind, I've used chocolate fudge, Swiss chocolate, or milk chocolate)
1 C Mini Chocolate Chips
1 cup Sour Cream
1 Pkg. of Chocolate Pudding (small 3.5 oz. box)

Prepare cake as directed on box, and add sour cream, pudding and chocolate chips. Pour into 2 9-inch round baking pans. Bake as directed on box (you might need to add a minute or two to the baking time because of the added ingredients). Place on a wire rack to cool.

Equally Impressive Chocolate Frosting
1 cup butter at room temperature
3 oz. Ghirardelli 100% cocoa chocolate bar
4-5 cups powered sugar
milk

Chop the chocolate, then place in double boiler until melted. Cream together butter, chocolate, and 4 cups of powered sugar. Add milk as needed for desired consistency. Combine until creamy; continue to add powered sugar and milk until it is the consistency and taste that you want.