Homemade Chocolate Cupcakes

I made these cupcakes for a friend's birthday tonight. They were so yummy and pretty. 

Recipe for Homemade Chocolate Cupcakes:

Mix together 2 sticks softened butter and 3 c. sugar, add 4 eggs and beat until fluffy. Add the following and mix until smooth; 3 c. flour, 1 T. baking soda, 1/2 t. salt, 3/4 c. cocoa powder, 1 1/2 c. hot coffee, 1 box instant vanilla pudding, 4 oz. applesauce, and 1 1/4 c. light sour cream. Pour into greased muffin tins and bake in a 350 degree oven for 18-22 minutes. Cool and frost with the following ganache recipe.

Recipe for ganache:

In a large glass bowl add a bag of peeled Hershey kisses, pour over 3/4 c. heavy cream and 1/4 c. hot coffee, stir until mixture is smooth, cool, add 1 container marscapone cheese and 1 c. smooth peanut butter. Place into a plastic bag, put in fridge until mixture is cold. Pipe into cupcakes and sprinkle with gold decorating sugar.

Enjoy! Not only are these cupcakes pretty, but they are delicious.

The Lunch Lady :)