There’s an undeniable charm in the air when the holiday season approaches, and I can’t help but crave something sweet that embodies that festive spirit. Imagine biting into a moist cake that bursts with refreshing peppermint flavors—each slice a celebration of the season! This Holiday Peppermint Cake isn’t just a delight for the taste buds; it transforms any gathering into a winter wonderland of flavor.
After a hectic day of holiday shopping, I often find myself in need of a quick and satisfying treat to share with friends and family. That’s when I discovered this easy recipe that starts with a simple box of cake mix yet results in an impressive dessert worthy of any holiday table. Topped with fluffy peppermint frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, this cake not only looks beautiful but will have your guests singing its praises. So roll up your sleeves and let’s create this festive masterpiece together—it only takes about 35 minutes from start to finish!
Why is Holiday Peppermint Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This Holiday Peppermint Cake brings festive cheer to every bite with its refreshing peppermint flavor.
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up in no time—a perfect solution for busy holiday schedules.
Impressive Presentation: The crushed candy canes create a beautiful, eye-catching finish that’s sure to wow your guests!
Versatile Treat: Enjoy this cake not just during the holidays, but year-round for any celebration or special occasion.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Let the little ones help decorate with the candy canes for sweet family bonding time.
Need more ideas? For an equally delightful dessert with a festive twist, check out our peppermint mocha cupcakes.
Holiday Peppermint Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- White cake mix – a simple starting point for a moist cake full of flavor.
- Water – helps to hydrate the cake mix and create a tender texture.
- Large eggs – they add richness and provide structure to the cake.
- Vegetable oil – ensures a moist crumb and a light texture.
- Torani Peppermint Flavoring Syrup – adds a sweet and minty punch, making this cake truly festive.
For the Frosting
- Butter, softened – provides creaminess and richness in the frosting.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting while giving it that perfect fluffy texture.
- Milk or water – adjust the consistency of the frosting to your preference; start with 3 tablespoons.
- Pure peppermint extract – intensifies the refreshing peppermint flavor in the frosting.
For the Topping
- Crushed peppermint candy canes – not only do they add a beautiful look, but they also introduce a delightful crunch and extra minty flavor.
How to Make Holiday Peppermint Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans, ensuring they’re ready for your delicious batter. This step is critical for a perfect cake release!
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Mix the dry cake mix in a large mixing bowl. Add water, vegetable oil, eggs, and Torani Peppermint Syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, then pour it evenly into your prepared pans.
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Bake the cakes for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and use a cake tester; they’re done when it comes out clean from the center, giving you that homemade aroma!
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Combine all frosting ingredients in a large mixing bowl, starting with 3 tablespoons of milk or water for the right consistency. This will make your frosting perfectly fluffy!
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Beat the frosting mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is well combined and fluffy. Only add an extra tablespoon of milk or water if your frosting feels a bit too thick.
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Frost the cooled cakes generously with your creamy peppermint frosting. Make sure to spread it evenly for a beautiful finish that captures the eye!
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Decorate by gently pressing crushed candy cane pieces into the side and on top of the frosted cake, adding that festive crunch and peppermint burst!
Optional: Sprinkle some additional crushed candy canes on each slice for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Holiday Peppermint Cake Variations
Customize your Holiday Peppermint Cake to make it even more delightful and tailored to your tastes!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the white cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix for an equally delicious treat without the gluten.
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Plant-Based: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk in place of regular milk to create a vegan twist.
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Chocolate Peppermint: Incorporate unsweetened cocoa powder into the cake mix and use chocolate frosting for a deliciously rich variation.
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Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty flavor and delightful texture.
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Mint Chocolate Swirls: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter for pockets of chocolatey goodness in your cake.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the frosting for a refreshing citrus note that beautifully complements the peppermint.
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Fruity Twist: Mix in a cup of finely chopped strawberries or raspberries into the layers of the cake for a fruity surprise.
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Spicy Peppermint: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the frosting for a surprising warmth that pairs surprisingly well with peppermint.
How to Store and Freeze Holiday Peppermint Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, covering it with plastic wrap or in a cake saver to maintain freshness.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This keeps your Holiday Peppermint Cake fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving. You can also warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Holiday Peppermint Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance by baking them, allowing them to cool completely, and then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. For the frosting, mix it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring the frosting back to room temperature and give it a good stir before frosting your cakes. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cakes and top with crushed candy canes for a festive finish. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Holiday Peppermint Cake?
Delight your guests with a whimsical spread that complements each sweet bite of your festive creation.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream enhances the cake’s peppermint flavors, creating a cozy winter treat.
- Peppermint Bark: This crunchy confection mirrors the cake’s minty goodness, perfect for an additional textural contrast to the soft cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream creates a luscious pairing, balancing the sweetness with its smooth richness.
- Fruity Salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries and citrus adds a refreshing touch, cutting through the sweetness and offering a juicy contrast.
- Coffee or Espresso: Pairing with a warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the experience, as the bitterness beautifully offsets the sugary cake.
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels: Their salty crunch offers a playful contrast to the decadent cake, making for delightful bites while sipping on holiday drinks.
- Sparkling Water with Mint: Serve chilled sparkling water infused with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing palate cleanser, perfect in between cake slices.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Continuing the holiday theme, these spiced treats offer a nostalgic flavor combo with the peppermint cake.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on each slice for an airy, velvety lift that complements the festive vibes of the cake.
Expert Tips for Holiday Peppermint Cake
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Dress it Up: Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the frosted cake for an elegant twist that complements the peppermint flavor.
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Right Temperature: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature for smoother mixing and a fluffier cake texture.
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Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the cake batter, mix just until ingredients are blended to prevent a dense cake; you want it to rise beautifully!
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Frosting Consistency: Start with less milk for your frosting; it’s easy to add more if needed. A fluffy frosting makes your Holiday Peppermint Cake even more delightful!
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Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and frost when you’re ready—they’ll taste fresh and delicious!
Holiday Peppermint Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right peppermint flavoring syrup?
Absolutely! When choosing a peppermint flavoring syrup, look for one with pure ingredients and a strong minty aroma. I often recommend Torani or similar brands, as they provide a robust flavor without being overly sweet. Additionally, consider your personal preference for intensity; if you love a stronger peppermint punch, opt for one labeled as intense.
How should I store my Holiday Peppermint Cake?
Very well! To keep your cake fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you need to extend its life, refrigerate it for up to a week, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. This method preserves flavor and moisture, so each slice remains delicious!
Can I freeze my Holiday Peppermint Cake? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cake, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This cake will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds for a cozy treat.
What should I do if my cake is domed or uneven?
No worries at all! If your cake turns out domed or uneven, simply use a serrated knife to trim the tops gently until they are level. This will not only improve the presentation but also make frosting easier. Remember, even perfectly imperfect cakes are delightful and will taste just as wonderful!
Are there any dietary considerations for the Holiday Peppermint Cake?
Yes, indeed! If you’re making this cake for someone with allergies, be mindful of the egg, flour, and dairy components. For a dairy-free version, swap out regular butter for a dairy-free alternative and ensure your milk is plant-based. Additionally, check that the peppermint syrup you choose is free from allergens. Enjoy baking without worry!
Can I use homemade cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade approach, you can create your own white cake mix by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Substitute the same volume of your homemade mix for store-bought, following the rest of the recipe as is. Your cake will be just as delightful and personalized!
Festive Holiday Peppermint Cake: A Sweet Seasonal Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- Mix the dry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and Torani Peppermint Syrup until smooth, then pour into the pans.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.
- Combine frosting ingredients in a bowl, starting with 3 tablespoons of milk or water for consistency.
- Beat the frosting mixture on medium speed until fluffy, adding more milk if necessary.
- Frost the cooled cakes with the peppermint frosting.
- Decorate with crushed candy canes pressed into the frosting.