CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 tbsp water
• 6 tbsp natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp milk

CARAMEL PECAN FROSTING

• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 7 tbsp caramel sauce
• 1–2 tbsp water or milk, as needed
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• Caramel sauce, as needed for drizzle
• Chopped pecans, as needed for topping