METHOD

1. To make the cupcakes, preheat oven to 160°C (325°F). Place the flour, cocoa, sugar, butter, eggs, milk and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer and beat on medium speed for 6 minutes or until pale and smooth. 
2. Spoon the mixture into 12 x ½-cup-capacity (125ml) cupcake tins lined with paper cases. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cooked when tested with a skewer. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. 
3. To make the meringue icing, place the water, cream of tartar or lemon juice and half the sugar in a small saucepan over high heat. Cook, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat to medium and cook for 4 minutes. 
4. Place the egg whites in the bowl of an electric mixer and whisk on high speed until stiff peaks form. With the motor running, add the remaining 1 cup (220g) of sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking for 30 seconds before adding more. Gradually add the hot sugar syrup in a thin steady stream and whisk for a further 4 minutes or until thick, glossy and cooled. 
5. To decorate, pipe or spoon the meringue icing on top of cupcakes and sprinkle with shredded coconut. Makes 12

Photography: Con Poulos