Description
These Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes are a perfect holiday treat, combining rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Topped with creamy mocha frosting, these cupcakes are a festive, delicious dessert for Christmas or any special occasion. Easy to make and irresistible, they are ideal for peppermint and chocolate lovers alike.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 and 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 cup whole milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp peppermint extract
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
1/2 cup hot water
For the Mocha Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp brewed coffee
1/4 tsp peppermint extract
1/4 cup heavy cream
For Garnish:
Crushed candy canes
Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-count muffin pan with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, mix vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg, milk, vanilla, and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the brewed coffee and hot water, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners and bake for 18-21 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool cupcakes completely before frosting.
- To make the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, coffee, peppermint extract, and heavy cream. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Frost cooled cupcakes, and garnish with crushed candy canes and chocolate shavings.
Notes
You can increase or decrease the peppermint extract to adjust the minty flavor to your preference.
For a richer mocha flavor, use strong brewed coffee in both the cupcakes and frosting.
These cupcakes can be made in advance and frozen (without frosting) for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 cupcakes
- Calories: Approx. 350 kcal per cupcake
