Andes Mint Cupcakes Recipe with Creamy Mint Frosting and Chocolate Chips

Why You’ll Love This Andes Mint Cupcakes

If you’re craving a treat that combines the cool freshness of mint with rich chocolate, Andes Mint Cupcakes are a perfect choice for so many reasons. These cupcakes bring together simple ingredients to create something truly special, making them easy to prepare even on busy days. What I love most is how they add a fun twist to your dessert table, appealing to baking enthusiasts like myself who enjoy sharing recipes that spark joy.

One key benefit is the ease of preparation; this recipe takes just a few steps and uses everyday items you likely have in your kitchen. The health aspects come from the natural mint flavor, which can help with digestion and offers a refreshing boost after meals. Plus, these cupcakes let you play with variations to fit different needs, such as using vegan swaps or lighter options while keeping that iconic Andes mint taste.

Beyond that, the distinctive flavor profile really sets them apart. Imagine biting into a moist chocolate base topped with creamy mint frosting and chocolate chips for an extra crunch it’s a delightful mix that feels both decadent and invigorating. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick bake or a student experimenting in the kitchen, these cupcakes will become a go-to favorite that brings people together.

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Essential Ingredients for Andes Mint Cupcakes

To make these delectable Andes Mint Cupcakes, you’ll need a specific set of ingredients for both the cupcakes and the frosting. I’ll break them down into clear categories so you can follow along effortlessly. Remember, using precise measurements ensures the best results, just like in my own baking adventures.

Cupcakes Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup milk, at room temperature

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon mint or peppermint extract
  • 3-4 drops green food coloring
  • Mint-flavored hard candies for garnish

This structured list covers everything you need for the full recipe, ensuring your Andes Mint Cupcakes turn out moist and flavorful. I always recommend checking for fresh ingredients to keep things simple and fun in the kitchen.

How to Prepare the Perfect Andes Mint Cupcakes: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started with these Andes Mint Cupcakes is as easy as turning on your oven, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro by the end. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 20 muffin cups with paper liners to avoid any sticking later. In a bowl, beat the vegetable oil, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light this step really sets the base for a great texture.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to keep everything smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra warmth. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until they’re evenly combined. Now, add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined, then pour in the milk followed by the rest of the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.

Fill each muffin cup about halfway with batter, which is roughly 2 tablespoons each, to give them space to rise nicely. Bake for 15-20 minutes, and check doneness by inserting a toothpick it should come out with a few crumbs for perfect moistness. Once baked, cool the cupcakes completely on a wire rack before moving on. For the frosting, beat the butter, confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and mint extract until smooth and fluffy, then mix in the green food coloring. Finally, frost the cooled cupcakes and garnish with mint-flavored hard candies for a fun finish. Explore more mint-infused desserts like this for inspiration.


Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Andes Mint Cupcakes

One of the best parts about baking is making recipes work for your lifestyle, and these Andes Mint Cupcakes are no exception. For protein alternatives, you can swap eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water, which helps bind the ingredients without changing the taste much. If gluten is a concern, use a certified gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour, keeping the cupcakes light and airy.

When it comes to veggies or seasonings, try peppermint oil instead of mint extract for a stronger flavor that still fits the Andes theme. For a twist, add a bit of cinnamon to the batter for warmth, or use coconut cream in the frosting if you’re avoiding dairy. These changes make the recipe versatile for busy parents or diet-conscious folks, much like adapting other favorites in my blog.

Mastering Andes Mint Cupcakes: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your Andes Mint Cupcakes to the next level is all about little tricks I’ve learned over time. To get that perfect crumb, let your wet and dry ingredients sit at room temperature before mixing, and remember not to overmix the batter to avoid tough results. Halfway through baking, rotate the tray for even heat distribution, ensuring each cupcake bakes just right.

For flavor variations, toss in dark chocolate chips with the chopped Andes mints for extra texture, or add espresso to the frosting to highlight the mint-chocolate duo. Presentation is key too use a piping bag to swirl on the frosting and top with crushed candies for a polished look. If you’re planning ahead, bake these and freeze them unfrosted; they’ll keep well for your next gathering.

How to Store Andes Mint Cupcakes: Best Practices

Keeping your Andes Mint Cupcakes fresh is simple with the right storage methods. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days to maintain moisture and flavor. For longer keep, wrap unfrosted cupcakes in plastic and freeze them for up to three months, thawing in the fridge overnight.

When reheating, let them sit at room temperature first, then warm briefly in the microwave to keep that soft texture. For meal prep, cool the cupcakes fully before storing, and keep frosting separate if you’re making it in advance. This way, you can enjoy them anytime without losing that creamy mint frosting appeal.

Andes Mint Cupcakes

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Andes Mint Cupcakes

What ingredients make Andes Mint Cupcakes moist and flavorful?

The combination of both oil and butter in Andes Mint Cupcakes helps achieve a moist and tender texture. Butter adds rich flavor, while oil keeps the cupcakes soft without making them heavy. Using only butter can result in drier cupcakes, and solely oil may lead to a dense crumb. Including green mint extract or peppermint extract enhances the signature minty flavor, but adjust the amount based on your taste preference to avoid overpowering the cupcake.

Can I substitute peppermint extract for green mint extract in Andes Mint Cupcakes?

Yes, peppermint extract is a great substitute if you don’t have green mint extract, which can sometimes be difficult to find or too strong. Peppermint extract offers a similar cool, minty flavor but is often milder and more widely available. Start with a smaller amount, such as half a teaspoon, and add more according to your preference to maintain the perfect mint balance in your cupcakes.

How should I decorate Andes Mint Cupcakes to highlight the mint-chocolate flavor?

A classic way to decorate Andes Mint Cupcakes is with a smooth chocolate frosting, such as chocolate buttercream or ganache, topped with crushed Andes mints or a whole mint chocolate candy for garnish. Adding a small drizzle of melted chocolate over the frosting creates an appealing look and enhances the flavor combination. Fresh mint leaves can be used sparingly for a touch of color and freshness.

What is the best way to store Andes Mint Cupcakes to maintain freshness?

Store Andes Mint Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before serving to restore moisture. If you’ve frosted the cupcakes, refrigeration is recommended to keep the frosting firm. You can also freeze unfrosted cupcakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months.

Can I make Andes Mint Cupcakes gluten-free without compromising taste?

Yes, you can make Andes Mint Cupcakes gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum or a similar binder. This swap maintains the cupcake’s structure and moistness. Be sure to mix the batter until smooth but avoid overmixing to keep the texture light. You might also want to slightly adjust baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.

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Andes Mint Cupcakes 64.png

Andes Mint Cupcakes


  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Total Time: 24 minute
  • Yield: 20 cupcakes 1x

Description

🌿 These Andes Mint Cupcakes offer a refreshing mint flavor paired with rich chocolate, making for a delightful treat.
🍫 Creamy mint frosting and chocolate chips add texture and a burst of classic candy-inspired taste in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup milk, at room temperature

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

3 cups confectioners’ sugar

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon mint or peppermint extract

34 drops green food coloring

Mint-flavored hard candies for garnish


Instructions

1-Getting started: Getting started with these Andes Mint Cupcakes is as easy as turning on your oven, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro by the end. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 20 muffin cups with paper liners to avoid any sticking later. In a bowl, beat the vegetable oil, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light this step really sets the base for a great texture.

2-Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to keep everything smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra warmth. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until they’re evenly combined. Now, add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined, then pour in the milk followed by the rest of the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.

3-Fill and bake each muffin cup about halfway with batter, which is roughly 2 tablespoons each, to give them space to rise nicely. Bake for 15-20 minutes, and check doneness by inserting a toothpick it should come out with a few crumbs for perfect moistness. Once baked, cool the cupcakes completely on a wire rack before moving on.

4-For the frosting, beat the butter, confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and mint extract until smooth and fluffy, then mix in the green food coloring. Finally, frost the cooled cupcakes and garnish with mint-flavored hard candies for a fun finish.

Notes

🌡️ Use room temperature eggs and butter for better texture.
⚖️ Measure flour by weight for baking consistency.
🍽️ Do not overfill muffin cups to prevent overflowing.
🧈 Using both butter and oil keeps cupcakes moist.
🌿 Adjust mint extract amount according to taste preference.
❄️ Refrigerate cupcakes before frosting for best results.
🥶 Store frosted cupcakes in the fridge up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
☀️ Thaw frosting to room temperature before applying.

  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cupcake
  • Calories: 266 calories
  • Sugar: 29 grams
  • Sodium: 71 milligrams
  • Fat: 14 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 9 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 grams
  • Trans Fat: 1 gram
  • Carbohydrates: 35 grams
  • Fiber: 1 gram
  • Protein: 2 grams
  • Cholesterol: 53 milligrams

Keywords: Andes Mint Cupcakes, Mint Frosting, Chocolate Cupcakes, Creamy Mint

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