Easy Candy Cane Cupcakes

Celebrate the holidays with Candy Cane Cupcakes, a festive and minty twist on classic cupcakes. Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these cupcakes feature peppermint frosting and crushed candy cane toppings that make every bite feel magical. Perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a cozy treat with a cup of cocoa, this recipe brings cheerful color and flavor to your table. Baking these cupcakes is simple and fun, making them ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy, and perfectly moist cupcakes
• Peppermint frosting with a festive candy cane crunch
• Easy to bake and decorate for holiday fun
• Perfect for parties, gifts, or cozy winter treats
• Visually stunning for holiday tables and gatherings

Ingredients

Cupcakes

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes

Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red and white sprinkles or crushed candy canes, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add flour mixture and buttermilk alternately, mixing until smooth. Fold in crushed candy canes.
5. Fill cupcake liners: Divide batter evenly among 12 liners, about ¾ full each.
6. Bake: For 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
7. Prepare frosting: Beat butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Add peppermint extract and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.
8. Frost cupcakes: Pipe or spread frosting on cooled cupcakes. Sprinkle crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles on top.

Tips & Variations

• For extra peppermint flavor, add ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract to the cupcake batter.
• Substitute crushed candy canes with chocolate shavings for a chocolate-peppermint version.
• Color frosting with red or green gel for a more festive look.
• Cupcakes freeze well un-frosted; frost after thawing.
• Mini cupcakes work well for bite-sized holiday treats.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate frosted cupcakes for up to 5 days.
• Freeze un-frosted cupcakes in a single layer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw completely before frosting and serving.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Pair with hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or coffee.
• Decorate extra with candy cane sticks or edible glitter for holiday tables.
• Serve alongside chocolate bark or holiday cookies for a festive dessert spread.
• Great for gift boxes or holiday dessert platters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar for frosting?

Powdered sugar is recommended for smooth, creamy frosting. Regular sugar will result in a grainy texture.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! Bake cupcakes up to 2 days in advance, store un-frosted, and frost just before serving.

Can I use almond milk instead of heavy cream in frosting?

Yes, almond or other plant-based milk works, though it may slightly affect the creaminess.

Are these cupcakes gluten-free?

The standard recipe uses all-purpose flour. Substitute with gluten-free flour to make them gluten-free.

Ready to Make It?

These Candy Cane Cupcakes bring a festive, minty magic to your holiday celebrations. With soft, fluffy cupcakes and peppermint frosting topped with candy canes, they’re a treat everyone will love. Bake, frost, and share these joyful cupcakes, a perfect way to spread holiday cheer!

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