extension-http-outcalls

Perform GET and POST HTTP requests from backend Motoko canisters with transform callbacks.

1|Updated Mar 24, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/caffeinelabs/skills --skill extension-http-outcalls
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: extension-http-outcalls
Source: https://github.com/caffeinelabs/skills/tree/main/skills/extension-http-outcalls
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/caffeinelabs/skills --skill extension-http-outcalls

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Backend canisters need a reliable way to request data from external services, but they cannot perform HTTP calls directly from the frontend.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • GET and POST requests: Use the provided caffeineai-http-outcalls Motoko module to issue HTTP GET and POST calls from the backend.
  • Transform callbacks: Define a transform function to process the raw HTTP response before returning it to your canister logic.
  • Use case: Integrate third‑party APIs such as weather services, payment gateways, or internal micro‑services directly from your Motoko backend.

Quick Start

Use the http-outcalls skill to fetch data from a URL via an HTTP GET request.

Frequently Asked Questions about extension-http-outcalls

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I make HTTP requests from a backend canister to external APIs?

HTTP outcalls from a Motoko canister require defining a transform callback function to sanitize and process raw HTTP responses. This mechanism allows backend canisters to securely retrieve and submit data to external services without direct frontend calls.

Can I send GET and POST requests from Motoko backend code?

Yes, the caffeineai-http-outcalls module specifically supports issuing both GET and POST requests from backend Motoko code. Use GET for data retrieval and POST for data submission to external services.

Why do I need a transform function for backend canister HTTP outcalls?

HTTP outcalls in a canister require a transform function to process raw HTTP responses before returning them to canister logic. This ensures data from external services is properly formatted and sanitized for secure backend execution.

Does backend Motoko support calling external HTTP services directly?

Yes, backend Motoko supports calling external HTTP services directly via the caffeineai-http-outcalls module. It enables canisters to integrate third-party APIs, bypassing frontend limitations for secure backend data retrieval.

What is the best way to integrate third-party APIs with a Motoko canister?

The best way to integrate third-party APIs with a Motoko canister is using the caffeineai-http-outcalls module to perform HTTP GET and POST calls. Define a transform function to handle raw API responses within backend logic.