Red Velvet Cupcakes – Simmer + Sauce

Ingredients

• For the Cupcakes:
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1/4 cup good quality, unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tablespoons red food coloring (or less if desired)
• 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups Confectioners' sugar, sifted