Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. Set out a second pan if needed for the remaining batter.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
• Add the egg, buttermilk, warm water or hot coffee, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the batter is smooth and thin.
• Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let the cupcakes rest in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack and cool completely before frosting.
• Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and enough cream or milk to make a fluffy frosting.
• Divide the buttercream into 4 bowls. Tint one pink, one yellow, one blue, and one purple with gel food coloring.
• Transfer the frosting to piping bags fitted with a large star tip. Pipe generous swirls onto the cooled cupcakes.
• Place one Peeps bunny in the center of each frosted cupcake. Add sanding sugar or sprinkles if desired.
• Arrange the cupcakes on a tray and serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.