Cupcakes for my "Sweet" Husband on our Anniversary

11 years ago today I married my best friend, my hero, my #1 taste tester.  I can not imagine my life without him and I love him more and more each day.  I am thankful that we have a great life together and he is always by my side on good days & bad.. loving me as I am.  Love you Juls!

Port Wine and Cherry Chocolate Cupcakes with Marsarpone Frosting
Cupcakes:
3/4 cup port wine
3/4 cup canned cherries
1 stick butter
3 Tbsp + 3/4 cup sugar
1 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup cocoa
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg
1/3 cup sour cream

Frosting:
8 oz. marscarpone
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
cherries or chocolate shavings

Directions for cupcakes:
Simmer port and drained cherries (I used Oregon Pitted Tart Cherries) in a saucepan for 10 minutes.Remove 1/8 cup of liquid, set aside. Add butter, 3 Tbsp sugar, chocolate and cocoa and whisk until melted. Remove from heat and let cool. Mix flour, sugar, soda, salt in a bowl.  In a seperate bowl, mix egg and sour cream. Add port mixture and beat briefly. Add flour mixture and beat briefly. Pour into lined cupcake pan. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes, or until toothpick comes clean.  Spoon remaining port liquid on cupcakes before frosting.

Directions for frosting:
Beat ingredients together at high speed for 2-3 minutes, or until soft peaks form. Spread on cupcakes and top with cherries or chocolate.