Description
These Peppermint Mocha Chocolate Cupcakes combine rich cocoa flavor, a hint of espresso, and refreshing peppermint for the ultimate holiday treat. Topped with creamy peppermint frosting, they’re festive, indulgent, and irresistible!
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp instant espresso powder
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
½ cup buttermilk
½ tsp peppermint extract
½ cup hot water
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder.
3. In a separate large bowl, mix both sugars, oil, and eggs until smooth.
4. Add buttermilk and peppermint extract; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.
6. Stir in hot water until the batter is smooth and thin.
7. Fill cupcake liners ¾ full and bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before frosting.
Notes
Top with peppermint buttercream and crushed candy canes for a festive finish.
Espresso can be omitted for a milder flavor.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: peppermint mocha cupcakes, holiday dessert, chocolate cupcakes, peppermint treats