Cooking Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
• In a separate bowl, combine the hot water, vegetable oil, vinegar, instant coffee granules (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix until the coffee is dissolved.
• Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a whisk or spatula, mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
• Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once completely cooled, frost your cupcakes with chocolate buttercream frosting or your favorite frosting recipe. Get creative with decorations if you wish!