Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Blend the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.
Combine Everything: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the Irish cream liqueur until smooth.
Bake to Perfection: Fill cupcake liners about ¾ full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
Prepare the Buttercream: In a stand mixer, beat butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in Irish cream liqueur and vanilla extract. Add green food coloring if desired.
Decorate & Enjoy: Pipe buttercream onto cooled cupcakes using decorative piping tips. Sprinkle with green and gold decorations or chocolate shavings for a festive touch.