This cupcake is full of contradictions. The base is light, almost airy…yet moist. The frosting has a bold chocolate flavor…but with a surprisingly mild sweetness. Both are sweetened with agave nectar, which contributes an amazing richness but has a lower glycemic index than sugar. But the real secret ingredient? Mesquite powder! This superfood is packed with fiber, iron and protein, and has an addicting, caramel-like flavor. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any day. Get the gluten-free, vegan recipe below!

For the cupcakes:

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup + 3 tablespoons brown rice flour
• 1/3 cup + 2 tablespoons sorghum flour
• 1/3 cup tapioca flour
• 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup soy milk (or other non-dairy milk)
• 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 2/3 cup agave nectar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
2. Line 12 muffin tins with paper liners or grease lightly to prevent sticking.
3. Whisk together dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
4. Whisk together soy milk and vinegar in another large mixing bowl. Allow to sit for a few minutes. Stir in additional wet ingredients.
5. Pour wet mixture into dry mixture and beat with an electric mixer just until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly into 12 muffin tins (each should be about 2/3 full).
7. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. Cool on a wire rack before frosting.

For the frosting:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup soy margarine, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup agave nectar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup mesquite powder (could also sub soy milk powder)

Preparation:

1. Beat margarine and agave with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add vanilla and cocoa powder and beat just until combined.
3. Add mesquite or soy milk powder and beat until smooth and well-combined.
4. Refrigerate frosting mixture (covered) for about an hour before frosting cupcakes.

Yields 12 regular-sized cupcakes.