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Peppermint Chocolate Cupcakes in a Jar

Peppermint Chocolate Cupcakes In A Jar

Indulge in the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and peppermint delight with our Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes In A Jar. These easy, one-bowl chocolate cupcakes are layered in charming mason jars, topped with a luscious peppermint cream cheese frosting, and finished off with a sprinkle of festive peppermint candies. It's a sweet treat, all in one jar
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 15 Jars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 630

Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Cupcakes:
  • 2 cups granulated white sugar
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • tsp baking powder
  • tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
For the Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 13 tbsp butter, softened to room temperature
  • 6 cups confectioner sugar
  • 2 tsp peppermint extract
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Crushed candy canes for garnish
Additional:
  • 15 Mason jars (8-ounce size)
  • Cooking spray

Method
 

For the Cupcakes:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. 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.
  3. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
  5. Stir in boiling water; the batter will be thin.
  6. 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:
  1. In a stand mixer bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter.
  2. Gradually add confectioner sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides as needed.
  3. Add peppermint and vanilla extract to the frosting mixture and mix until well combined.
  4. Place the frosting in a piping bag with your preferred tip like a Closed Star Piping Tip.
Assembly:
  1. 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.
  2. Sprinkle a generous amount of crushed candy canes atop the luscious frosting for a festive touch.
  3. 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:
  1. 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!
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
Congratulations, budding chef or canner! You've embarked on a journey into the realm of delightful desserts. Remember, assembling these jarred wonders is an art, so don't forget to cut those cupcakes in half for an Instagram-worthy presentation. May your kitchen adventures be filled with joy and sweetness! Happy baking!