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Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes

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Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes are the perfect holiday treat that combines the joy of festive flavors with a touch of elegance. With their fluffy texture and delightful peppermint frosting, these cupcakes will make your kitchen smell like a winter wonderland. They are ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy family nights, or as a charming gift for friends!

Why Make This Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes

These Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes not only look stunning but also taste divine. Their soft, moist cake is flavored with peppermint, creating a delightful balance between sweetness and minty freshness. Finished with a creamy peppermint frosting and a festive sprinkle of crushed candy canes, these cupcakes bring a cheerful spirit to any occasion. Plus, they are fun to make, allowing you to involve your family or friends in the baking process. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a treat that symbolizes the joy of the holiday season?

How to Make Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes

Making these cupcakes is surprisingly simple and straightforward. Start by preparing your ingredients and preheating your oven. The batter comes together quickly, and even novice bakers will find success with this recipe. Once baked and cooled, you will whip up the frosting, which is just as easy to make. Watch as your kitchen transforms into a festive haven filled with the sweet aroma of peppermint.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Crushed candy canes for topping

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until combined.
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full with the batter and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool completely.
In a separate bowl, beat together powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth and fluffy.
Frost cooled cupcakes with the peppermint frosting.
Top each cupcake with crushed candy canes and serve to enjoy the festive treat!

Nutritional Information

Per cupcake (makes about 12 cupcakes):

Calories: 220
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 38mg
Sodium: 115mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 2g

How to Serve Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes

These cupcakes shine during the holiday season but can also be enjoyed year-round. Serve them at festive gatherings, holiday parties, or family dinners. They make a fantastic addition to a dessert table. Consider pairing them with hot chocolate or coffee to enhance the peppermint flavors, creating a cozy and festive experience for your guests.

How to Store Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes

You can store these cupcakes at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. To keep them fresh for longer, place them in the fridge, where they’ll last for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Do Not Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
Check with a Toothpick: Always use a toothpick to test for doneness. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Customize Frosting: If you want a richer flavor, feel free to add a bit more peppermint extract to the frosting.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Candy Cane Cupcakes: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for cocoa powder for a chocolate base, pairing perfectly with the peppermint frosting.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of all-purpose flour to make these cupcakes gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the milk with a non-dairy milk alternative for a dairy-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to frost and serve.

2. What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract on hand, you can use almond extract for a different twist, or simply use additional vanilla for a milder flavor.

3. How can I make the frosting less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet frosting, try reducing the powdered sugar by half and adding a little cocoa powder instead for a chocolatey twist without so much sweetness.

Conclusion

These Candy Cane Peppermint Cupcakes are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. Their festive flavors and vibrant appearance will impress guests and fill your home with sweet aromas. With easy steps and common ingredients, they’re perfect for bakers of all levels. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy a sweet treat together. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations in the comments below; we’d love to hear how your cupcakes turn out!