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Delicious Candy Cane Cupcake

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Festive vanilla cupcakes with a hint of peppermint, topped with creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes for a sweet, crunchy holiday treat. Perfect for Christmas parties and celebrations.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
  • Red food coloring (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
  • Optional: whole mini candy canes for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and peppermint extracts.
  4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  5. Divide batter into liners and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
  6. For frosting, beat butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and cream until fluffy.
  7. To create a swirl, streak red food coloring inside a piping bag before filling with frosting. Pipe onto cupcakes.
  8. Top with crushed candy canes and mini candy canes if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Mix crushed candy canes into the batter for added crunch.
  • Swap half the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
  • Use almond extract for a flavor twist.
  • Vanilla cake mix with peppermint extract makes a great shortcut base.
  • Make mini cupcakes for parties and easy serving.

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