Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes

Name: Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 48 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter; 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate; 1 heaping Tablespoon instant coffee*; 1/2 cup (41g) unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch processed); 3/4 cup (94g) all-purpose flour* (spoon & leveled); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 3/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk*; 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 3-4 cups (360-480g) confectioners’ sugar; 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream*; 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; salt, to taste; optional for garnish: 4 ounces melted semi-sweet baking chocolate and crushed candy canes