Holiday Peppermint Cake: A Festive Dessert Centerpiece
Introduction
Holiday Peppermint Cake is the ultimate showstopper for your holiday dessert table. Its vibrant colors, peppermint flavor, and festive decorations make it a favorite during the Christmas season. The combination of moist cake layers and creamy frosting infused with peppermint delights both the eyes and the palate.
Pair this with Kentucky Butter Cake for a complementary dessert or Easy Apple Hand Pies for a holiday dessert spread.
Ingredients and Tools
Ingredients:
- For the Cake Layers:
- All-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, and peppermint extract.
- Optional: Red and white gel food coloring for a festive swirl effect.
- For the Frosting and Decoration:
- Cream cheese or buttercream frosting, crushed candy canes, and peppermint bark.
Tools Needed:
- Electric mixer, mixing bowls, and 9-inch round cake pans.
- Piping bags, spatula, and parchment paper.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Cream butter and sugar, add eggs, then mix in dry ingredients alternately with milk.
- Stir in peppermint extract and divide batter for swirling colors if desired.
- Bake the Cake Layers:
- Pour into prepared pans and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
- Frost and Decorate:
- Layer cake with frosting and sprinkle crushed candy canes between layers.
- Finish with frosting on top and sides, then add decorative peppermint pieces.
Internal Linking Opportunities
- Link to The Ultimate Comfort Food: Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns for a warm holiday starter.
- Suggest Easy Apple Hand Pies as another festive dessert option.
- Include Kentucky Butter Cake for a perfect holiday pairing.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint Cake: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a crowd-friendly option.
- Mini Peppermint Cakes: Bake individual-sized cakes for personal servings.
FAQs
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake and frost the cake a day in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. - What’s the best way to crush candy canes?
Place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush with a rolling pin. - How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap before frosting.
Conclusion
Holiday Peppermint Cake brings festive cheer to any celebration. Pair it with Kentucky Butter Cake or Easy Apple Hand Pies for a memorable holiday dessert spread!
