Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that our cupcakes bake evenly and rise perfectly. While the oven is warming up, prepare your muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners. This makes for easy removal once they are baked.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and white sugar until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. You should notice that the mixture lightens in color and thickens slightly, indicating it’s well combined.
Add the coconut milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the sugar and egg mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined, creating a rich and creamy base for your cupcakes.
In another bowl, sift together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, dark cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and remove any lumps of cocoa powder that might result in a bitter bite.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until the batter is just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so mix only until no dry flour is visible.
Next, fold in the sour cream and chocolate chips. The sour cream adds moisture, making the cupcakes soft, while the chips bring a delightful chocolate surprise in each bite.
Using a 1/4 cup measure, pour the batter evenly into the lined muffin tin. Fill each cup about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes. You'll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
For the frosting, start by creaming the softened butter in the bowl of an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of your rich frosting. Scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing.
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar. Once incorporated, gradually increase the speed and add vanilla extract and coconut extract, whipping for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Check the consistency of your frosting. If it seems too thick, add lite coconut milk one teaspoon at a time until it reaches the desired spreadable consistency. Remember, frosting should be thick but spreadable.
Now, fold in the shredded coconut until just combined. This adds texture and coconut flavor to your frosting.
Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, frost them generously with the coconut frosting. Don’t be shy; the more frosting, the better!
Finally, sprinkle the tops with toasted coconut for an added crunch and a lovely presentation. Enjoy your delicious Mocha Coconut Frappuccino Cupcakes!