‘Tis the season for indulging in festive treats, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than with Peppermint Chocolate Candy Cane Cupcakes? These delightful creations are a merry blend of super moist chocolate cupcakes crowned with a swirl of peppermint buttercream frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. It’s like a burst of Christmas joy in every bite!
While Christmas baking often revolves around cookies and fudge, these cupcakes bring a refreshing twist to the table. The rich chocolate cupcake base, made irresistibly moist with buttermilk and sour cream, pairs harmoniously with the fluffy, creamy peppermint frosting. Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday party or simply craving a festive pick-me-up, these Candy Cane Chocolate Cupcakes are a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the season.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cupcakes
- 2 cups butter, cold
- 10 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla
- 10 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 batches of white cake mix
- Crushed candy canes
- Red velvet cake mix
- Oil
- Buttermilk
- Sour cream
- Dutch process cocoa
For the Peppermint Frosting
- Softened butter
- Icing sugar
- Peppermint extract
- Milk
- Red food coloring
- Crushed candy canes
- Sprinkles (optional)
Required Equipment
Baking Tools
- Cupcake tin
- Cupcake cases
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spatula
- Cooling rack
- Piping bag and tips (optional)
- Offset spatula or butter knife
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Cupcake Batter
I start by preheating the oven to 140C Fan/160C/325F/Gas Mark 3 and lining a cupcake tin with cupcake cases. Next, I mix together the baking spread and caster sugar until smooth and fluffy. Then, I add the eggs, peppermint extract, and milk, mixing them in well. Gently whisk or fold in the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Once the mixture is well combined, I divide it between the cupcake cases.
Bake the Cupcakes
I bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a thin skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, I place the cupcakes on a rack to cool completely.
Make the Peppermint Frosting
For the buttercream, I mix softened butter on its own for a few minutes, then add icing sugar, peppermint extract, and milk and mix until smooth. Using an electric hand whisk or stand mixer with paddle attachment yields the best results. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk if needed.
Crush the Candy Canes
To crush the candy canes, I put them in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or a kitchen mallet until I achieve the desired consistency. These crushed candy canes will be used as a garnish for the cupcakes.
Assembling the Cupcakes
Frost the Cupcakes
To frost the cupcakes, prepare a piping bag with a large star tip and fill it with the peppermint buttercream frosting. Hold the bag perpendicular to the cupcake and start piping from the outer edge spiraling inward. Continue swirling until you reach the center, creating a beautifully frosted top on each cupcake.
Add the Candy Cane Pieces
Complete the cupcakes by adding the final touch of crushed candy cane pieces. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top of the frosted cupcakes, adding a festive and colorful accent. You can also garnish with whole mini candy canes by gently inserting them into the frosting for an extra touch of holiday charm.
Storage Tips
When it comes to preserving the delightful flavors of your Peppermint Chocolate Candy Cane Cupcakes, proper storage is key. Follow these simple guidelines to keep your cupcakes fresh and tasty.
How to Keep Cupcakes Fresh
To maintain the freshness of your Peppermint Chocolate Candy Cane Cupcakes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Ensure the container is sealed properly to prevent air exposure, which can dry out the cupcakes. Refrigeration is not recommended for these cupcakes as it can alter the texture and flavors. Enjoy within 2-3 days for the best taste experience.
Conclusion
Creating Peppermint Chocolate Candy Cane Cupcakes is a delightful way to indulge in the holiday spirit. From the rich chocolate base to the refreshing peppermint buttercream frosting, these cupcakes are a festive treat that will surely impress your guests. By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you can easily whip up a batch of these delicious cupcakes in no time. Remember to garnish with crushed candy canes for that extra crunch and holiday flair. With proper storage techniques, you can savor the flavors of these cupcakes for up to 2-3 days. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these Peppermint Chocolate Candy Cane Cupcakes and make your holiday celebrations even more special.
