Andes Mint Cupcakes

– 1 box of chocolate cake mix (plus the ingredients called for on the package, like eggs, water, and oil)
– 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
– 2 cups of powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 4-6 drops green food coloring (optional, for that minty color in the frosting)
– 1 cup chopped Andes mints or Andes mint baking chips
– Additional whole Andes mints for garnish

1. Start by preheating your oven to the temperature stated on the box of chocolate cake mix. Line your cupcake tin with paper liners.

2. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions. Once you’ve mixed it all up, stir in the peppermint extract to infuse that minty goodness throughout.

3. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds of the way full, and gently tap the pan on the counter to level the batter.

4. Bake the cupcakes according to the cake mix directions, usually for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. While the cupcakes cool, let’s make our frosting. Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and the milk until smooth. If you’re in a whimsical mood, add the green food coloring to channel that iconic Andes mint color.

6. Gently fold in the chopped Andes mints or mint baking chips into the frosting with a spatula.

7. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, spread or pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes.

8. Top each cupcake with a whole Andes mint for an extra charming presentation.

– If anyone in your family has gluten sensitivities, you can easily swap out the regular box of cake mix for a gluten-free version. The outcome is just as delicious.
– For a more grown-up twist, consider adding a touch of coffee to the chocolate cake batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
– And, if you’re catering to a crowd that’s not big on food coloring, just skip the green dye. The cupcakes will still have all that beautiful minty flavor.
– Keep an eye on the cupcakes as they bake. Every oven is a little bit different, and you want them moist and tender, not dry and crumbly.

Making these cupcakes is a joy, and even more so when you watch your family’s faces light up with the first bite. Happy baking!