Creating these fun Oreo Bat Cupcakes is straightforward if you follow these steps closely:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tin with cupcake liners.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the egg, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently until you achieve a smooth batter.

5. Add Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. This will thin out the batter; don’t worry, it’s meant to be this way!

6. Incorporate Oreos: Gently fold in the crushed Oreo cookies into the batter until evenly distributed.

7. Fill Cupcake Liners: Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake tin, filling each liner about two-thirds full.

8. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cool the Cupcakes: Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Prepare the Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, make the Oreo frosting. Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well until combined. Add the crushed Oreos, vanilla, and enough cream to reach your desired consistency.

11. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, top each with a generous swirl of Oreo frosting.

12. Decorate with Bats: Add crushed Oreos on top of the frosting, and place decorative bat toppers on each cupcake.

By following these steps, you will create Oreo Bat Cupcakes that are not only delicious but also bring festive fun to any table.