Checking In

It's been midterm madness here at Sheer Wonder, Baby. Today alone I had 2 midterms, and I have another paper due tomorrow afternoon. This coming week is Spring Break though, and I will be welcoming the break from classes and a busy schedule. I'm not going anywhere exciting, just returning home to Western Maryland for the week. I'll get to see my family and friends, and spend lots of time with Jim. Sounds like the perfect break to me!

I got an iced mocha at the cafe in our student union today to celebrate my 96% on my religious studies midterm, and my friend Steph was working so she made my drink with love!

Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes!

I made these cupcakes last week and they were an immediate hit with my roommates. Easy and delicious, they're definitely something that I'll make again!

Cupcakes: 
1 cup flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
2 teaspoons espresso powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup chocolate chips

- mix flour, cocoa, espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt
- in a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar on medium until light and fluffy
- reduce speed to low and add vanilla extract and egg
- alternate adding milk and flour mixture while still mixing
- stir in chocolate chips
- pour into lined cupcake pan/cups
- bake at 350 degrees(F) for 20 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out almost clean

Icing:
4 ounces cream cheese
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
3 teaspoons cocoa powder
splash of milk

- mix cream cheese and vanilla extract at medium speed until creamy
- while beating, gradually add sugar, cocoa powder, and milk
- spread on cooled cupcakes
- top with chocolate chips or coffee beans (optional)

I got the recipe from this pin on pinterest, but I don't know where it came from originally.