BLACK BOTTOM CUPS (BAKE OFF WINNER)

2 pkg (3 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 1/3 cups plus 2 tbsp sugar, divided use
1 egg
1 (6 oz) pkg chocolate chips (1 cup)
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup water
1/3 cup oil
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup chopped nuts (for topping)

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 18 medium muffin cups with paper baking cups.

In small bowl, combine cream cheese, 1/3 cup sugar and egg, mix well. Stir in chocolate chips; set aside.

In large bowl, combine flour, 1 cup sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. Add water, oil, vinegar and vanilla; beat 2 minutes at medium speed. Fill prepared muffin cups half full; top each with a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle all with 2 tbsp sugar and nuts.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 to 30 minutes or until cream cheese mixture is lighht golden brown. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pans. Cool completely. Refrigerate leftovers.

Makes 18 cupcakes.