Getting ready for St. Patrick's Day: Mint Chocolate Delight Cupcakes

I always look forward to the calendar rolling around to St. Patrick's Day. It is a special day for me to celebrate my Irish heritage. I have fun coordinating my outfit ensemble and look forward to serving up some fun green treats. Here is a favorite I will be sharing with my friends and neighbors this year. 

"Mint Chocolate Delight Cupcakes" 

1 stick butter, softened

2 cups sugar

2 large eggs

1 3/4 cups flour

3/4 cup cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 cup milk

1  teaspoon peppermint extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 muffin pans with cupcake liners or spray with cooking spray. In large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt and mix until well-combined. Set aside. In large bowl, cream butter and sugar with mixer on medium speed. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well in between each addition. Add milk, oil and extract and mix until well-combined. Add flour mixture in thirds, mixing between each addition. Pour batter into cupcake tins. Bake 16-20 minutes, or until a toothpick placed in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool before frosting. Makes 24 cupcakes.

"Mint Buttercream Frosting"

1 stick butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1/4 cup milk

1 tsp peppermint extract

4 drops green food coloring 

Combine butter and powdered sugar in mixing bowl and beat with electric mixer. Add milk and peppermint extract, mix well. Add 4 drops of food coloring and mix well until frosting has a smooth consistency. If needed, add additional 1/2 teaspoon of milk if mixture is too stiff. Spread over cooled cupcakes. Enjoy!