Name: Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cupcakes:; Betty Crocker Hershey's Chocolate Premium Cupcake Mix; ½ tsp Peppermint Extract; For Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting:; 8 oz cream cheese; ¾ cup Betty Crocker Whipped Vanilla Frosting; ¼ cup powdered sugar; ½ tsp Peppermint Extract; 2 candy canes; red food coloring; 2 candy canes

Indulge in the refreshing taste of peppermint with these delicious cupcakes. The soft, moist chocolate cupcakes filled with a hint of peppermint make the perfect dessert for the holiday season or any special occasion. The rich cream cheese frosting, infused with peppermint and crowned with crushed candy canes, adds a festive touch to these cupcakes. It's a delightful fusion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for more.

Photos of Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe can be found in a regular pantry, like cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. However, the Betty Crocker Hershey’s chocolate premium cupcake mix and Betty Crocker whipped vanilla frosting might be specific to some supermarkets or baking supply stores. The candy canes are seasonal, but usually available year-round in most stores. If you can't find them, you can substitute with peppermint candies.

Ingredients for Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Betty Crocker Hershey's chocolate premium cupcake mix: This is a premade cupcake mix, which makes the baking process easier and guarantees a moist and fluffy cupcake. It's chocolate flavored perfect for our recipe.

Peppermint extract: This gives our cupcakes and frosting that distinct minty flavor.

Cream cheese: This adds a rich and creamy taste to our frosting.

Betty Crocker whipped vanilla frosting: This readymade frosting adds vanilla flavor and creamy texture to our frosting.

Powdered sugar: It is used to add sweetness to our frosting.

Red food coloring: This is used to give our frosting that festive red color.

Candy canes: These are crushed and added to our frosting for that extra peppermint flavor and crunch.

One reader, Ella Frank says:

These peppermint cream cheese cupcakes are a delightful treat! The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is simply divine. The creamy frosting with a hint of peppermint is the perfect finishing touch. These cupcakes are a must-try for anyone who loves a festive and indulgent dessert.

Ella Frank

Techniques for Perfect Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

How to prepare cupcakes: Follow the instructions on the cupcake mix box, adding peppermint extract to the chocolate filling. After baking, scoop out a piece of the cupcake, add the filling, and cover it.

How to make peppermint cream cheese frosting: Beat the cream cheese and peppermint extract until fluffy, then stir in the whipped vanilla frosting, crushed candy canes, and a few drops of food coloring. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before piping or spreading onto the cupcakes.

How to decorate with crushed candy canes: Sprinkle additional crushed candy canes on top of the frosted cupcakes for a festive finish.

How To Make Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Whip up these minty cream cheese cupcakes for your next dinner party! These sweet and creamy cupcakes are easily made in just under an hour.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 22 minutes

Total: 37 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cupcakes:

Betty Crocker Hershey’s Chocolate Premium Cupcake Mix,1 box
½tsppeppermint extract

For Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting:

8ozcream cheese,softened
¾cupBetty Crocker Whipped Vanilla Frosting
¼cuppowdered sugar
½tsppeppermint extract
2candy canes,finely crushed
red food coloring,optional
2candy canes,crushed

Instructions

Cupcakes:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Open the cupcake mix box, then set the small chocolate filling packet aside.
Place the filling into a small bowl, then stir in the peppermint extract.
Prepare the cupcakes as directed on the box using.
Cool completely on a wire rack.
Scoop out a piece of the baked cupcake using a small spoon or cupcake corer.
Add the filling into the cavity, then cover with the removed cupcake piece.

Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting:

Beat the cream cheese and peppermint extract until soft and fluffy.
Stir in the Betty Crocker Whipped Vanilla Frosting, crushed candy canes, and a couple of drops of food coloring.
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
Pipe or spread the frosting on each cupcake.
Sprinkle with additional crushed candy canes.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 159.36kcal
Fat: 10.15g
Saturated Fat: 4.73g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.76g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.62g
Carbohydrates: 16.60g
Fiber: 0.20g
Sugar: 15.28g
Protein: 1.26g
Cholesterol: 20.79mg
Sodium: 99.77mg
Calcium: 20.22mg
Potassium: 44.16mg
Iron: 0.21mg
Vitamin A: 69.27µg
Vitamin C: 0.01mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe

When making the peppermint cream cheese frosting, ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before you start. This will make it easier to beat and will result in a smoother, creamier frosting. Additionally, when adding the red food coloring, start with just a drop or two and then add more if needed. This will help you achieve the perfect shade of pink without overdoing it.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Prep ahead: Prepare the peppermint cream cheese frosting a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of baking.

Organized workspace: Before starting, ensure that all ingredients and tools are organized and easily accessible. This will streamline the baking process.

Use a cupcake corer: Using a cupcake corer will make it easier and quicker to remove the center of the cupcakes for filling.

Chill the cupcakes: After baking, place the cupcakes in the refrigerator to cool them faster before adding the frosting.

Double batch: Consider making a double batch of cupcakes and frosting to have extra treats on hand or for future use.

Efficient piping: Use a piping bag to efficiently and neatly apply the frosting to the cupcakes.

Cleanup as you go: Clean up any mess or wash dishes while the cupcakes are baking or cooling to save time after the baking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe

betty crocker hershey's chocolate premium cupcake mix - Substitute with homemade chocolate cupcake mix: You can make your own chocolate cupcake mix by combining flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This allows you to control the quality and flavor of the chocolate in the cupcakes.
peppermint extract - Substitute with mint extract: Mint extract can be used as a substitute for peppermint extract, providing a similar minty flavor to the cupcakes.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cream cheese as a substitute for traditional cream cheese in the frosting.
betty crocker whipped vanilla frosting - Substitute with homemade vanilla frosting: You can make your own vanilla frosting using butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, which allows you to adjust the sweetness and flavor to your preference.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: If you don't have powdered sugar, you can use granulated sugar and blend it in a food processor until it reaches a powdery consistency.
candy canes - Substitute with crushed peppermint candies: Crushed peppermint candies can be used as a substitute for candy canes to sprinkle on top of the cupcakes for a similar minty and crunchy texture.
red food coloring - Substitute with beet juice: For a natural alternative to red food coloring, you can use beet juice to add a vibrant red color to the frosting.

Presentation Ideas for Festive Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Elevate the plating: When presenting the peppermint cream cheese cupcakes, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a clean, white plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the cupcakes and frosting.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the plate with a light dusting of powdered sugar. This delicate touch will enhance the visual appeal and add a hint of sweetness to the presentation.
Incorporate artistic swirls: Use a piping bag to create intricate and artistic swirls of the peppermint cream cheese frosting on top of each cupcake. This attention to detail will demonstrate precision and artistry in the presentation.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the cupcakes in a symmetrical pattern on the plate, ensuring that each cupcake is positioned with precision and care. This will create a visually stunning and balanced presentation.
Highlight the festive colors: Incorporate festive elements by adding a pop of color to the presentation. Consider using a subtle touch of red food coloring to enhance the visual appeal and evoke the holiday spirit.
Add a touch of sparkle: For a final touch, consider delicately placing small, edible silver or gold leaf accents on the plate to add a touch of luxury and elegance to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and cooking, used for baking the cupcakes at the specified temperature.
Small bowl: Used for mixing the chocolate filling with peppermint extract for the cupcakes.
Wire rack: Used for cooling the baked cupcakes evenly.
Small spoon or cupcake corer: Used for scooping out a piece of the baked cupcake to add the peppermint filling.
Mixer: Used for beating the cream cheese and peppermint extract until soft and fluffy for the frosting.
Piping bag or spatula: Used for piping or spreading the peppermint cream cheese frosting onto the cupcakes.
Refrigerator: Used for chilling the frosting before piping or spreading it onto the cupcakes.

Storing and Freezing Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to store them longer, place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze the cupcakes, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze the cupcakes for up to 2 months.
When ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
If the frosting appears slightly runny after thawing, refrigerate the cupcakes for 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set.
For best results, store the cupcakes unfrosted if you plan to freeze them, and add the peppermint cream cheese frosting just before serving.

How to Reheat Leftover Cupcakes

The best way to reheat leftover peppermint cream cheese cupcakes is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until they are heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the cupcakes while ensuring that the cream cheese frosting doesn't melt or become too soft.
Another option is to reheat the cupcakes in the microwave, but this should be done with caution. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cupcake, as this can cause the frosting to melt and the cake to become tough.
If you want to enjoy a chilled cupcake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to soften slightly and the flavors to develop.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcake on a small baking tray or aluminum foil. Heat for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through.
If you find that the cream cheese frosting has become too soft or melted during reheating, you can place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for a few minutes to allow the frosting to firm up again before serving.

Interesting Fact About Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Peppermint has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including aiding digestion and freshening breath.

Is Making Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?

The peppermint cream cheese cupcakes recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the use of a cupcake mix simplifies the baking process. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, as it offers a delightful combination of flavors and a visually appealing presentation at an affordable price point.

Are Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?

The peppermint cream cheese cupcakes recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients, such as the chocolate cupcake mix, cream cheese, vanilla frosting, and candy canes, are high in sugar, fat, and calories. The recipe lacks nutritional value, as it does not include any fruits, vegetables, or whole grains. Consuming these cupcakes in excess can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a whole grain or gluten-free cupcake mix instead of the chocolate mix to increase fiber content
Replace some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and increase protein
Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting to lower the overall sugar content
Incorporate fresh mint leaves instead of peppermint extract for a natural flavor and added nutrients
Top the cupcakes with fresh berries or a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings for added antioxidants and a more balanced treat

Editor's Opinion on These Delightful Peppermint Treats

The combination of chocolate cupcakes with a hint of peppermint and a creamy, tangy peppermint cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat. The addition of crushed candy canes adds a festive touch and a satisfying crunch. The recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want to indulge in a sweet, minty treat. The balance of flavors and textures in these cupcakes is sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and a hint of parmesan cheese, topped with crispy bacon bits.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Fresh asparagus spears grilled to perfection and drizzled with a tangy lemon zest vinaigrette, topped with shaved parmesan cheese.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Tender Brussels sprouts roasted to caramelized perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, topped with toasted almond slices.

Delicious Alternatives to Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture makes this soup a crowd-pleaser.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs infuse the chicken with a burst of flavor, making it a standout dish at any gathering.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat. The sweet mango, creamy coconut, and nutritious chia seeds create a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip that is perfect for dipping with bread, chips, or veggies. The combination of flavors and textures will leave your guests coming back for more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy, indulgent, and satisfying. This classic Italian dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. The combination of savory chicken and luscious sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

Beef Stroganoff: A hearty and comforting dish that is sure to warm your soul. Tender strips of beef are simmered in a creamy and flavorful sauce, then served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. The richness of the sauce paired with the tender beef creates a mouthwatering experience that will have you coming back for seconds.

Why trust this Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe:

This recipe uses the trusted and beloved Betty Crocker cupcake mix, ensuring consistent and delicious results. The addition of peppermint extract infuses a refreshing and festive flavor. The cream cheese frosting is made with high-quality ingredients like whipped vanilla frosting and powdered sugar, creating a luscious and creamy texture. The incorporation of candy canes adds a delightful crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor. Trust the expertise of this recipe to deliver a delightful and indulgent treat for any occasion.

Want to share your experience baking these delightful Peppermint Cream Cheese Cupcakes or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's talk about all things sweet and minty!

FAQ:

What is the best way to store these peppermint cream cheese cupcakes?

The best way to store these cupcakes is to keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.

Can I make the cupcakes and frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cupcakes and frosting ahead of time. Store the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, and the frosting can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply frost the cupcakes and enjoy.

Can I use a different type of frosting for these cupcakes?

Absolutely! While the peppermint cream cheese frosting complements the flavors of the cupcakes, you can use any frosting of your choice. Vanilla, chocolate, or even a buttercream frosting would work well with the peppermint flavor.

Can I omit the peppermint extract from the cupcake mix?

Yes, you can omit the peppermint extract from the cupcake mix if you prefer a more subtle peppermint flavor. The cupcakes will still have a delicious chocolate base that pairs well with the peppermint cream cheese frosting.

How can I crush the candy canes for the frosting?

To crush the candy canes, place them in a resealable plastic bag and gently crush them using a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat mallet. You can also use a food processor to pulse the candy canes into small pieces.