candy cane cupcakes

What would Christmas baking be like without some candy canes? Jessica found this recipe for me, but I didn't like it so once again I created my own. It is so simple. All you need is:

1 box of white cake mix

red food color

1 tsp of peppermint extract

Follow the instructions on the back of the box to make the cake. Add the food color and peppermint flavor. Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners. Fill each liner 3/4 of the way, and place in oven to bake. Also follow box's instructions for this. 

For the frosting, I used Paula Deen's Quick Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe. When I added the vanilla, I added just a little more peppermint. It just depends on how much peppermint you like. You can keep the frosting vanilla if you don't like much or add more if you like it really pepperminty. You're choice. 

After the cupcakes are finished baking and have cooled completely, you can frost them and top them with crushed candy canes. These cupcakes were so light and refreshing. And if a darker, more chocolate-y experience is what you seek, you can definitely use a chocolate cake mix. No need for the food color then. 

Definitely a cupcake must for all you peppermint-lovers!!