Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake tins with paper cups.In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Dissolve the espresso powder in the coffee. In a mixing stand, add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on low speed until well combined.

Step 2

Add the coffee/espresso liquid and beat for an additional minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Slowly add in the dry ingredients.

Step 3

Mix until all items are incorporated.Fill paper cups 2/3 full.

Step 4

Bake for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 5

Remove from the oven and leave cupcakes in pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.While cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip butter until fluffy.

Step 6

Add the cocoa powder and continue whipping until combined. Slowly add the espresso. It may look a bit curdled but dont worry as it will come together once the sugar is added. Gradually add in the confectioners sugar, cup at a time. Continue adding sugar to desire consistency. (I typically lean towards the full 4 cups for a firmer consistency to pipe the frosting). Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before use.Once cupcakes are completely cooled and frosting is ready, pipe/frost cupcakes. Top with each with a chocolate covered espresso bean and dust with cocoa powder.