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Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes

Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes

Melena
These chocolate peppermint cupcakes are rich, moist, and bakery-style treats combining deep chocolate flavor with a refreshing peppermint twist. Perfect for holidays, parties, or festive desserts, they’re easy to make and beautifully indulgent.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cupcakes:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Wet Ingredients:
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • ½ cup hot water or coffee
  • For the Frosting:
  • 1 cup butter softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 –3 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Optional food coloring
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Crushed candy canes
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Sprinkles

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add egg, milk, oil, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth.
  • Slowly stir in hot water or coffee until batter is thin and well combined.
  • Fill cupcake liners ⅔ full and bake for 18–22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cupcakes cool completely.
  • Beat butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract. Mix until fluffy.
  • Frost cooled cupcakes and decorate with toppings.

Notes

  • Use coffee instead of water for richer chocolate flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter.
  • Let cupcakes cool fully before frosting.
  • Use peppermint extract sparingly to avoid overpowering flavor.
  • Sift cocoa powder for a smoother texture.