01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
02 -
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla. Add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with flour.
03 -
Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely.
04 -
In a small bowl, mix hot coffee with sugar until dissolved. Stir in the liqueur if using.
05 -
Using a pastry brush or spoon, gently brush the tops of the cooled cupcakes with the coffee syrup. Repeat for extra flavor.
06 -
In a cold mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, mix mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Gently fold in the whipped cream until smooth.
07 -
Pipe or spread the frosting on each cupcake.
08 -
Dust with cocoa powder before serving.