Peppermint Cupcakes are a delightful and festive dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. These cupcakes boast a rich and moist chocolate base infused with a hint of espresso, balanced perfectly with the coolness of peppermint extract. Topped with a creamy and fluffy peppermint frosting, these cupcakes are not only visually stunning but also a delicious treat that brings joy to holiday celebrations and gatherings.

The tradition of peppermint-flavored treats during the holidays can be traced back to ancient times, where peppermint was valued for its medicinal properties and pleasant taste. Peppermint candies and confections became popular across Europe and eventually found their way to America, where they were enjoyed during Christmas and other festive occasions.

The combination of peppermint with chocolate and espresso in cupcakes is a modern culinary innovation that has gained popularity over the years. The depth of flavor from the chocolate and espresso pairs beautifully with the refreshing and minty taste of peppermint, creating a delightful harmony of tastes in each bite.

As the holiday season approaches, peppermint cupcakes have become a beloved treat, often making appearances at Christmas parties, winter weddings, and other celebratory events. The vibrant red and white frosting swirls add a touch of whimsy and elegance, making these cupcakes a delightful addition to any holiday dessert spread.

INGREDIENTS

Cupcakes:

• 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2-3 tsp. espresso powder
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1 tsp. peppermint extract
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs

Frosting:

• 6 large egg whites
• 1¾ plus 2 tbsp. granulated sugar
• 1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 tsp. peppermint extract
• 1-2 tsp. vanilla extract
• Red gel food coloring (optional for the red swirls)

INSTRUCTIONS

Cupcakes:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cupcake pans with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir together. In a liquid measuring cup, combine the whole milk, strong brewed coffee, and peppermint extract.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Blend in the eggs, one at a time.
4. Alternately mix in the dry and liquid ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, and mixing just until incorporated.
5. Divide the cupcake batter evenly between the prepared cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting:

1. Combine the egg whites and granulated sugar in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Heat, whisking frequently, until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C) and the sugar has dissolved.
2. Transfer the mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, and the mixture has cooled to room temperature, which takes about 8 minutes.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to medium and add the unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons at a time, adding more once each addition has been incorporated.
4. Stir in the peppermint and vanilla extracts, and mix just until incorporated.
5. To achieve the red and white swirls, remove about half of the frosting to a separate bowl. Add red gel food coloring to the remaining frosting in the mixing bowl and mix until the desired shade is achieved.
6. Fit a pastry bag with a large tip. Fill one side of the pastry bag with the white frosting and fill the other side with the red frosting. Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes in a swirl pattern, creating a beautiful red and white combination.

With these delightful Peppermint Cupcakes, you have a festive and scrumptious treat that combines the richness of chocolate and espresso with the cool and refreshing taste of peppermint. The elegant red and white swirls on top add a touch of holiday cheer, making these cupcakes a perfect addition to your Christmas celebrations or any occasion during the holiday season. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joyful spirit of the holidays in each delicious bite!