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Candy Cane Cupcakes recipe

Candy Cane Cupcakes

Stars Cake Editorial
Delightful and festive Candy Cane Cupcakes, perfect for Christmas parties and holiday gatherings. These peppermint-flavored cupcakes are topped with crushed candy canes for a holiday treat everyone will love.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
cooling 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 cupcake tin lined with paper liners
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

Extras

  • Red food coloring
  • Crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
  • Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
  • Divide the batter into two bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and mix until the desired color is achieved.
  • Spoon alternating dollops of white and red batter into the cupcake liners to create a marbled effect.

Serving

  • Once cooled, frost each cupcake with your choice of frosting and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

Storage

  • Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Start with a small amount of peppermint extract and taste the batter before baking. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a lighter texture. Use pure vanilla extract and high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use almond milk as a substitute for buttermilk if needed.
How to Serve: Serve with hot cocoa or peppermint mocha for a cozy winter treat.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake cupcakes a day in advance and store unfrosted. Frost and decorate on the day of serving.
Keyword Candy Cane Cupcakes, Christmas Cupcakes, holiday desserts