1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. hot water
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. cocoa
1/2 c. butter, softened
1/2 c. buttermilk (regular milk may be substituted)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 egg
Sifted powdered sugar

Dissolve baking soda in hot water. Combine all ingredients except the powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat at medium speed of an electric mixer 4 minutes, or until mixture becomes light in color.

Spoon batter into greased or paper-lined muffin pans, filling 3/4 full. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes or until cupcakes test done. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. When cool, sprinkle cupcakes with powdered sugar. Serve immediately. Yield: 18 cupcakes.

If you prefer cupcakes may be frosted with any commercial or homemade frosting.