Bacon Chocolate Cupcakes

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 350 degrees; line two cupcake pans with 18 paper liners.
2. 2
   Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3
   Set aside.
4. 4
   In large bowl, beat butter and sugar.
5. 5
   Add eggs and maple extract.
6. 6
   Beat in flour mixture, alternating with milk.
7. 7
   Fold in bacon.
8. 8
   Divide and pour batter into liners and bake for 21-22 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center of cupcake comes out clean.
9. 9
   Allow cupcakes to cool and then frost with Bacon Chocolate Cupcake Frosting, or frosting of choice.
10. 10
    Garnish with additional chopped bacon, if desired.