Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon each ground cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1-3/4 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking cocoa
  • 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee
  • 1 tablespoon butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Chocolate-covered coffee beans and assorted candies, optional

Method

  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and molasses. Combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk.
  • Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
  • In a small bowl, combine confectioners' sugar and cocoa. Stir in the coffee, butter and vanilla until smooth. Frost cupcakes. Garnish with coffee beans and candies if desired.