Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes (Printable View)
Moist, rich chocolate cupcakes infused with peppermint and topped with creamy peppermint frosting.
# Ingredient List:
→ Cupcakes
01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk
09 - 1/3 cup vegetable oil
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
11 - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
12 - 1/2 cup hot water
→ Peppermint Frosting
13 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
14 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 2 tablespoons milk
16 - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
17 - Pinch of salt
18 - Crushed peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
# How to Prepare:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well blended.
04 - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
05 - Gradually whisk in the hot water until the batter is smooth and thin.
06 - Distribute batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
07 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
08 - Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - Beat softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until light and fluffy.
10 - Spread the frosting atop cooled cupcakes and optionally sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The cool peppermint flavor blending with rich chocolate is like sharing a winter treat only you know about
- They're simple to make yet impress everyone who tries them
02 -
- Be gentle when mixing the batter once liquids are added to avoid tough cupcakes
- Using hot water to bloom the cocoa powder makes the chocolate flavor deeper and more vibrant
03 -
- Use room temperature eggs and milk to get a smooth batter without lumps
- Let your cupcakes cool completely before frosting to keep the frosting from melting away