The rich aroma of chocolate wafts through the air, mingling with a refreshing hint of peppermint. As you sink your fork into the moist layers of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake, the world around you fades away, leaving just the deliciousness on your plate.
This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience, perfect for cozy winter nights, festive gatherings, or any time you need a little taste of holiday magic. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- Its blend of chocolate and peppermint creates a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
- With its stunning layered look and festive toppings, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering.
- This dessert can be served warm or cold, making it versatile enough for any occasion.
Ingredients for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure, use a finely milled flour for the best texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Choose high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise perfectly.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and balances the rich chocolate flavor.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors in the cake.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better mixing and rising.
- Milk: Whole milk makes the cake moist and rich; but feel free to substitute with plant-based milk if preferred.
- Vegetable Oil: For moisture and tenderness without adding extra flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A must-have for that warm aroma; it complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Peppermint Extract: A few drops provide that signature peppermint flavor; don’t overdo it!
- Whipped Cream: To top off your cake with some fluffy goodness—who can resist?
- Candy Canes: Crushed candy canes not only add crunch but also make for festive decoration.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans with non-stick spray and line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until combined—think of it as giving your ingredients a little dance party before they meet!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps—just like good relationships!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cake! Think gentle folding instead of aggressive wrestling.
Step 5: Bake Away!
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them onto wire racks.
Step 6: Frost and Decorate
Once cooled completely, frost with whipped cream between layers and on top. Sprinkle crushed candy canes generously on top like confetti at a New Year’s Eve party!
Serve your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake warm or chilled—it’s equally scrumptious either way! Transfer slices onto plates and watch as everyone falls head over heels in love with this delightful treat.
You Must Know
- This delightful peppermint hot chocolate cake combines rich chocolate with a refreshing minty twist.
- It’s the perfect treat for winter gatherings or cozy nights in.
- With its stunning layers and creamy frosting, it will impress everyone at your holiday table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake layers first. Once they cool, whip up your peppermint frosting while prepping your ganache. Assemble everything when ready, ensuring each layer is perfectly balanced for that ultimate flavor explosion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular cocoa for dark chocolate cocoa for a richer taste. You can also add crushed candy canes on top as a festive garnish or incorporate peppermint extract into the cake batter for an extra minty punch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to make it melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding espresso powder to the batter.
- Always let your cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise.
I remember the first time I made this cake; my friends devoured it in minutes! Their laughter and joy made all the mixing worth it, and I knew I’d stumbled upon something special.
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake?
To make a delightful Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake, you will need flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. For the frosting, gather butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and crushed peppermint candies. These ingredients combine to create a rich chocolate cake that is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
How long does it take to bake Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake?
Baking your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake typically takes around 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, oven temperatures may vary. It’s best to check your cake a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready!
Can I make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake ahead of time. Bake the cake layers and let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the layers for longer storage. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
What can I serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake?
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra decadent treat. You might also consider serving it alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies. This dessert is perfect for festive occasions and complements other holiday treats beautifully.
Conclusion for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake:
In summary, the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake is an indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with refreshing peppermint notes. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is easy to make and ideal for any occasion. Remember to store leftovers properly to enjoy every bite later on. Try this delightful recipe during the holidays or whenever you’re craving something sweet and festive!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of this Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cake, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy winter nights.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- ½ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost between layers and on top of the cake with whipped cream.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes generously on top for decoration.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. You can add espresso powder for an enhanced chocolate experience. Ensure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
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