Ingredients
Method
For the Cupcakes:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Prepare cupcake pans by generously spraying with non-stick cooking spray. If using liners, make sure to generously spray them, as the cupcakes will be placed in jars later.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
- Stir in boiling water; the batter will be thin.
- Pour the batter into cupcake pans, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before placing them in the jars.
For the Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter.
- Gradually add confectioner sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add peppermint and vanilla extract to the frosting mixture and mix until well combined.
- Place the frosting in a piping bag with your preferred tip like a Closed Star Piping Tip.
Assembly:
- After the cupcakes have fully cooled, generously apply the peppermint frosting on top of each cupcake nestled in the jars using a piping bag or a spoon.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of crushed candy canes atop the luscious frosting for a festive touch.
- Seal the jarred sweetness by screwing on the lids of the mason jars to keep the delicious layers intact. Consider tying a ribbon or attaching a festive decoration to each jar for that extra charm.
Alternative Additional:
- Arrange a cupcake in each mason jar, add a layer of frosting, and repeat the process. Alternatively, consider cutting the cupcakes in half and layering them to achieve a total of three layers (equivalent to 1 1/2 cupcakes per jar).
Notes
Follow these tips to ensure your baking adventure is as sweet and successful as can be!
-
Get Measuring Right:
- Precision matters in baking. Use proper measuring cups to get accurate amounts, especially when dealing with flour. It sets the foundation for the perfect cupcake texture.
-
Choose Wisely:
- When it comes to cocoa powder, go for natural unsweetened varieties. It enhances the chocolatey goodness of your cupcakes without the need for additional sugars.
-
Even Baking Magic:
- Give your cupcakes the royal treatment by rotating your pans halfway through baking. This ensures even cooking and consistent deliciousness in every bite.
-
Chill for Success:
- After baking, let your cupcakes cool on a rack. It's a simple trick to prevent over-baking and guarantees a moist and tender result.
-
Frosting Stability Secret:
- For a frosting that stands tall, use cold cream cheese. It provides the stability needed to create a luscious and perfectly piped topping.
