Holiday Peppermint Cake

olivia

Published:

December 31, 2025

Festive holiday peppermint cake with chocolate layers and peppermint frosting

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introduction

This cake brings a bright mint taste and a soft chocolate cake for the holidays. Many people like the mix of mint and chocolate. You can read a simple nut cake idea at almond cake recipe for more oven tips.

why make this recipe

Make this cake to share at a party or to give as a sweet gift. It looks nice and it tastes like the season. The cake feeds a small group and it moves well to a holiday table. If you want a soft cheese cake idea to pair, see almond ricotta cake for another gentle dessert.

how to make Holiday Peppermint Cake

This cake uses a box mix and a few fresh items. You mix, bake, cool, and frost. You fold in candy for a bright crunch. If you need mini dessert ideas for the same day, try the easy guide at apple crisp mini cheesecakes.

Ingredients :

1 box of chocolate cake mix
1 cup of peppermint extract
1 cup of milk
1/2 cup of vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 cup of crushed peppermint candies
Frosting (cream cheese or chocolate)
Additional crushed peppermint for garnish

You can swap some parts to match what you have, like a different milk or a ready-made frosting. For a coffee cake idea with a crumb top, see apple crumble coffee cake.

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, peppermint extract, milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
Gently fold in crushed peppermint candies.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Once cooled, frost the cakes with your choice of cream cheese or chocolate frosting.
Garnish with additional crushed peppermint on top.
Serve and enjoy your holiday treat!

how to serve Holiday Peppermint Cake

Cut the cake into even slices. Serve on small plates with a cup of hot tea or coffee. You can add a small candy cane on the side for a fun look. For a different warm sweet to serve, read about an authentic honey cake.

how to store Holiday Peppermint Cake

Cover the cake with a lid or wrap it in plastic wrap. Keep the cake in the fridge if you use cream cheese frosting. The cake will stay good for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. You can freeze slices in a box for up to 2 months.

tips to make Holiday Peppermint Cake

Use room temperature eggs and milk to make a smooth batter.
Do not overmix after you add the cake mix. Mix until you just combine.
Fold the crushed peppermint candies in last so they keep some crunch.
Cool the layers fully before you frost to keep the frosting smooth.
Warm the frosting a bit if it is too stiff to spread.

variation (if any)

Use peppermint oil instead of extract, but use much less.
Add a layer of chocolate ganache for a rich change.
Make cupcakes instead of two cake pans.
Use crushed red candies or sprinkles for a bright look.

FAQs

Q: Can I use less peppermint for a mild taste?
A: Yes. Use half a cup of peppermint extract to make the mint light.

Q: Can I make this cake without a box mix?
A: Yes. Use your favorite chocolate cake recipe and add the peppermint in the wet mix.

Q: Do I need to grind the peppermint candies?
A: No. Crush them by hand or put them in a bag and hit gently so you keep small bits.

Q: Can I use butter instead of oil?
A: Yes. Use melted butter in the same amount for a richer taste.

Q: How do I stop the candies from sinking?
A: Toss the candy bits in a little flour before you fold them in. This helps them stay in the batter.

Conclusion

If you want one more tested take on this same idea, see the full written recipe at Love Bakes Good Cakes holiday peppermint cake guide.