If you’re dreaming of a festive treat that bursts with holiday cheer, this Christmas Cupcakes Recipe is exactly what you need. These cupcakes bring together buttery softness, a hint of peppermint, and the creamy sweetness of homemade frosting for a bite that feels like Christmas morning wrapped up in a little cake. Perfectly fluffy and topped with a peppermint-infused buttercream, they’re sure to become the showstopper at any holiday gathering or a cozy night by the fire. Let me take you through how to make these delightful Christmas cupcakes with ease and joy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Christmas Cupcakes Recipe lies in its simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to create that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and festive spirit—from the richness of butter to the fresh zing of peppermint extract.
- 1 ½ cups all purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, fluffy crumb that holds all other flavors beautifully.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder: The agent that gives your cupcakes a lovely rise and light texture.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps ensure a soft crumb and balanced acidity with the yogurt.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance all the sweet and buttery notes in the cake.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture, creating a velvety bite.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness without overpowering, crucial for a perfectly balanced taste.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Provides structure while keeping the texture moist and tender.
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (room temperature): Delivers moisture and a slight tang that cuts through sweetness beautifully.
- ¼ cup vegetable oil: An extra boost of moisture to keep cupcakes soft even days later.
- ½ cup whole milk (room temperature): Ensures a smooth, luscious batter and perfect crumb consistency.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For that classic, warm flavor to complement the seasonal notes.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) for frosting: The creamy base for a rich, smooth buttercream.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect piping consistency.
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream: Adds silkiness and helps achieve a luscious frosting texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor for a well-rounded frosting taste.
- ¼ teaspoon pure peppermint extract: The star in our frosting giving that unmistakable festive freshness.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Balances the sweetness and brightens the peppermint flavor.
How to Make Christmas Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—this ensures even distribution to give you consistent cupcakes.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key as it incorporates air to create a tender crumb in your cupcakes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Then mix in Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract for a moist, flavorful batter that will keep your cupcakes tender and soft.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until everything just comes together. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 cupcake liners and bake for about 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Peppermint Buttercream Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed until fluffy and light — this frosting is the heart of the Christmas Cupcakes Recipe’s festive flavor.
Step 7: Frost Your Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes have cooled, pipe or spread the peppermint buttercream generously on top. Don’t be shy with the frosting—it adds that perfect sweet and minty finishing touch.
How to Serve Christmas Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive flair, sprinkle crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or small red and green sprinkles on top of the frosting. These little touches not only make your cupcakes pop visually but add delightful texture and sparkle to your holiday spread.
Side Dishes
Pair your Christmas cupcakes with a warm mug of hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or a fresh cup of herbal tea. These cozy beverages perfectly complement the peppermint and buttery richness, creating an irresistible holiday treat ensemble.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your cupcakes on a tiered holiday cake stand or a festive plate surrounded by pine cones and holly sprigs for a stunning centerpiece. Wrapping individual cupcakes in clear festive bags tied with red ribbon makes charming, edible gifts for friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigeration is best, wrapped well to avoid drying out, where they can last up to a week without losing flavor or moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a sealed bag for up to three months. Thaw completely at room temperature before frosting. The buttercream can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge, just bring it back to room temperature before decorating.
Reheating
If you prefer your cupcakes slightly warm, gently heat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This will soften the crumb and enhance the buttery texture, though be careful not to melt the frosting.
FAQs
Can I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream?
Absolutely! Sour cream works just as well to add moisture and tenderness, with a similar tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of these cupcakes.
How do I make sure my cupcakes come out fluffy and moist?
Make sure to cream the butter and sugar properly and avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients. Using room temperature ingredients also helps achieve a smooth batter that bakes evenly.
Can I use regular peppermint extract instead of pure?
While pure peppermint extract delivers the best fresh flavor, regular peppermint extract can be used too—just adjust the amount slightly as it can be a bit stronger or artificial tasting.
Is it okay to use oil instead of butter in the batter?
Yes, the recipe already includes vegetable oil along with butter to keep cupcakes moist. You could also try substituting all butter with oil for an even denser, more tender cupcake, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How long will these cupcakes stay fresh with frosting?
Frosted cupcakes are best enjoyed within two to three days when kept in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated slightly longer. Beyond that, freshness and texture may decline.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Cupcakes Recipe is such a joy to make and share, embodying all the cozy, festive feelings of the season in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these peppermint-kissed cupcakes are sure to spread smiles and holiday cheer. I can’t wait for you to try them, enjoy every delicious moment, and make them a new holiday tradition!
