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Mint Chocolate Cupcakes

Deliciously moist and rich cupcakes combining chocolate and refreshing mint, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes
  • 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Granulated for sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar, lightly packed Adds moisture and richness.
  • 1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Dutch Process Cocoa Powder For a deep chocolate taste.
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder Helps the cupcakes rise.
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda Works with acidity in the batter.
  • 1/4 tsp Salt Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 2 Large Eggs Binds the ingredients together.
  • 1/2 cup Buttermilk Adds moisture and tenderness.
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Keeps the cupcakes moist.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Espresso Powder (optional) Enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Hot Water Helps dissolve cocoa powders.
  • 4 oz Andes Mints (24 mints, plus an extra for garnish) Adds minty goodness.
For the Ganache and Frosting
  • 1/4 cup Heavy Whipping Cream For the ganache.
  • 1/4 cup Crushed Chocolate Wafers (about 5-7 wafers) For added crunch.
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature) For creamy frosting.
  • 3 cup Sifted Powdered Sugar Sweetens the frosting.
  • 5-6 tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream Adjusts the frosting consistency.
  • 3-4 drops Green Food Coloring Adds a fun minty hue.
  • 2 tsp Peppermint Extract Intensifies mint flavor.

Method
 

Make the Cupcakes
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients, whisk well.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  5. Fill each cupcake liner to 2/3 full with batter.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool.
Prepare the Ganache
  1. Heat the heavy whipping cream until just simmering.
  2. Pour it over the chopped Andes mints and stir until melted and smooth.
  3. Allow ganache to cool slightly before using.
Create the Buttercream Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter until fluffy.
  2. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar and heavy whipping cream, mixing until smooth.
  3. Add green food coloring and peppermint extract, mix well.
Assemble the Cupcakes
  1. Once cupcakes are cool, spread a layer of ganache on top.
  2. Pipe or spread the buttercream frosting over the ganache.
  3. Garnish with additional Andes mints if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. Don’t overmix to achieve the best texture. Cool ganache slightly before frosting to prevent melting.