Imagine a dessert that captures the magical essence of winter in every single bite - a cake so light, so decadent, and so irresistibly peppermint-infused that your guests will be begging for the recipe! This Fluffy Peppermint Layer Cake isn't just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavor, texture, and festive cheer that transforms an ordinary gathering into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cake (8 servings)
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup milk
- 3 eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
- Mix in the peppermint extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with one-third of the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add half of the milk. Repeat this process, ending with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as you see no more flour streaks.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, you can prepare your frosting. Consider a peppermint buttercream or cream cheese frosting for a delightful pairing.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- For an extra touch, you can garnish the cake with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings.
- Slice and serve your Fluffy Peppermint Layer Cake, enjoying the festive flavors!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for the most uniform and fluffy cake texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and light.
- Check Cake Doneness Carefully: Use the toothpick test - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Enhance Peppermint Flavor: For an extra punch, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to your frosting.
- Decorative Touch: Crushed candy canes make a stunning and festive garnish that adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
