Who can resist these decadent chocolate cupcakes from Allrecipes, perfect for National Chocolate Cupcake Day on October 18.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a muffin tin with paper or foil liners.

Sift together 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cream together 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons softened butter in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add 2 eggs (one at a time) to butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in 3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Add flour mixture in two batches, alternating with 1 cup milk. Beat well.

Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups, filling each 3/4 full. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the centers comes out clean, 15 to 17 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool before topping with your favorite frosting.