Embrace the holiday cheer with these delightful Candy Cane Cupcakes, a perfect treat to light up your festive season. Each cupcake is a swirl of joy, combining the classic flavors of peppermint and sweet vanilla, topped with the crunch of candy canes. These cupcakes are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of holiday traditions and joyful gatherings.
The Peppermint Swirl Delights are a feast for the eyes and the palate, blending the comforting sweetness of homemade cupcakes with a refreshing peppermint twist. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cupcakes are sure to bring smiles and a touch of magic to your festive table.
Peppermint Swirl Delights
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Red food coloring
– Crushed candy canes, for garnish
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with festive liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Divide the batter in half. Add peppermint extract and red food coloring to one half, creating a vibrant red batter.
7. Spoon a small amount of each batter into each cupcake liner, creating a swirl effect.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before garnishing with crushed candy canes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per cupcake | Servings: 12 cupcakes
Frequently Asked Questions about Candy Cane Cupcakes
- Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint extract? Yes, you can use mint extract, but keep in mind that it will give a slightly different flavor compared to peppermint extract. Peppermint has a more pronounced and cooler taste, which is traditional for candy cane flavors.
- How do I ensure my cupcakes are moist? To ensure your cupcakes stay moist, avoid overbaking them. Check them a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time and make sure to not overmix the batter.
- Can I make these cupcakes in advance? Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Add the garnish of crushed candy canes right before serving to maintain their crunch.
- What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a simple substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
- Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure that the blend is a 1:1 substitute for best results.
- How do I get the perfect swirl effect with the two batters? To create a swirl effect, use a toothpick or a skewer to gently swirl the red and white batters together in the cupcake liners. Don’t overdo it, or the colors will blend too much.
- Can these cupcakes be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without the garnish. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature and add the crushed candy canes before serving.
- Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe? To make these cupcakes vegan, use plant-based butter and a vegan egg substitute. Also, ensure that the red food coloring is vegan-friendly.
- How long will these cupcakes stay fresh? The cupcakes will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If refrigerated, they can last up to a week.
- Can I use a different type of frosting? Absolutely! While these cupcakes are designed to be simple with a focus on the candy cane flavor, feel free to top them with your favorite frosting, like cream cheese or vanilla buttercream.
