Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, Dutch process cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the large eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Mix the hot water with the espresso powder until dissolved, then gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for about 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the ganache by heating the heavy whipping cream until simmering, then pour over chopped Andes mints and stir until smooth.
- Beat unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually add sifted powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, peppermint extract, and crushed chocolate wafers.
- Core the tops of the cupcakes gently to create a pocket, then spoon in the ganache until it overflows slightly.
- Pipe the mint chocolate frosting on top of each filled cupcake, garnishing with a half-mint or crushed chocolate wafer.
- For best results, refrigerate the cupcakes for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Chill the ganache for a denser filling.
