Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with spooky-themed cupcake liners for a festive vibe.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to ensure an even, lump-free batter.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture is light, fluffy, and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition, until the batter is smooth and glossy. Mix in the vanilla extract for a cozy aroma.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition to keep the batter smooth and moist.
Using a spoon or scoop, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter, ensuring an even distribution and a little room to rise.
Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are domed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, allowing the moisture to settle and the structure to set.
Transfer the cooled cupcakes to a wire rack and wait until they are completely cool before decorating to prevent melting the icing.
Decorate the cupcakes with spooky icing, candies, or edible eyes using piping bags or spatulas, adding whimsical details to make each one uniquely spooky and fun.
Once decorated, chill the cupcakes briefly if needed to set the decorations, then serve and enjoy these playful treats for a festive celebration.
