This rich and moist chocolate cake is infused with a hint of peppermint, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Topped with a creamy peppermint buttercream frosting and adorned with crushed candy canes, this cake is perfect for any special occasion or holiday celebration.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add in milk, oil, eggs, and peppermint extract, and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in boiling water until the batter is well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and heavy cream, beating until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer with the peppermint buttercream frosting. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the cake for decoration.
- Slice and serve this decadent Deep Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cake to wow your guests!
Interesting Facts
Peppermint is known for its digestive benefits and can aid in reducing bloating and indigestion.
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and may improve heart health.
Candy canes were originally created to represent the shepherds' crooks from the nativity story.