Peeps Chocolate Peppermint Cake Recipe
When it comes to delightful holiday treats, the Peeps Chocolate Peppermint Cake stands out as a festive favorite. Not only is this cake a visual masterpiece, but it also combines the rich, tantalizing flavors of chocolate with refreshing peppermint, making it a must-have dessert for any celebration.
Growing up, this cake was a staple at our family gatherings. My grandmother would always bake it for us during the holidays, and each bite felt like a taste of winter wonderland—something we all looked forward to. The colorful Peeps on top would light up our faces even before the first slice was served.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to fall in love with this cake. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, yet it looks like a professional bakery creation. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is perfect for the holiday season, evoking cozy wintery vibes. It’s not just delicious, but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to the whimsical addition of Peeps, making it a kid-friendly choice.
Ingredients Notes
Using high-quality chocolate is key for this recipe. Look for a dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavor. If you can’t find peppermint extract, mint extract can be a useful substitute. The Peeps add a delightful touch, providing both texture and a festive look. Remember, the fresher the ingredients, the richer the taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prepare it for the batter.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Whisk them together to remove any lumps.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the peppermint extract.
Step 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined, then pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Step 5
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool before decorating with Peeps and frosting of your choice.
Storage Options
This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat slices in the microwave for a homemade, freshly-baked feel.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. You can also experiment with different Peeps flavors or add crushed candy canes for an extra peppermint crunch. For a richer taste, consider adding some melted dark chocolate into the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake without peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can substitute it with mint extract or even a few drops of peppermint oil. Be cautious with the amount, as oils tend to be more concentrated.
What if I don’t have Peeps on hand?
Peeps add a fun visual element but aren’t essential for taste. You can replace them with marshmallows or omit them entirely if needed. Alternatively, use holiday-themed candies to maintain a festive appearance.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this cake vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg instead of regular eggs. Ensure your chocolate and Peeps are also vegan-friendly before proceeding with the recipe.
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Peeps Chocolate Peppermint Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup cocoa powder unsweetened
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk room temperature
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 unit large egg beaten
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 pack Peeps marshmallows for decoration
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in milk, peppermint extract, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
- Carefully add boiling water to the mixture and mix until well combined.
- Pour batter into prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cake cool completely on a wire rack. Decorate with Peeps marshmallows before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
