Mix together flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside
In a mixing bowl with a hand mixer or kitchen aid mixer, cream together shortening, sugar and vanilla. Mix until well combined
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well
Pour flour mixture about ½ cup at a time in the shortening ingredients, switching with water. So, about ½ cup flour mixture, half cup water until all is combined while mixer is on low speed
Pour into cupcake tins that are lightly greased or lined with cupcake liners
Bake at 350* for 17-20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean
For the Frosting
Pour heavy whipping cream into bowl and mix on medium high speed with stand mixer or hand mixer for 2-3 minutes or until mixture starts to thicken and there are peaks on the beaters
While on low speed, pour in 1 cup of powdered sugar into whipping cream. Mix until mixture is thickened
After cupcakes has cooled, spread frosting on top of cupcakes and sprinkle with chocolate chips, if desired