Creating Firecracker Cupcakes is a straightforward process. Simply follow these steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and chili powder. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Spoon Batter: Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: After baking, let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare Frosting: In a separate bowl, mix the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and a pinch of chili powder until smooth. Adjust the spiciness to your liking.
10. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are cool, frost them with the chili-infused frosting and decorate with colorful sprinkles.

With these steps, you’ll have an incredible batch of Firecracker Cupcakes ready to serve!