- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup) for the topping
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Steps
### How to Make a Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Introduction
Create a magical holiday treat with our detailed recipe for a chocolate peppermint cake! This festive dessert is perfect for Christmas parties or any special occasion. Follow these steps to make a rich, decadent cake that combines the flavors of chocolate and peppermint.
#### Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon peppermint extract (ensure it's pure peppermint)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Peppermint candies or crushed candy canes for garnish
#### Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Cooling rack
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and baking powder.
- Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps of cocoa or clumps of flour.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients**:
- In another bowl, beat the eggs with sugar until well combined.
- Add in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the buttermilk while continuously mixing to combine all wet ingredients.
4. **Blend Dry and Wet Mixtures**:
- Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, mixing gently but thoroughly with a whisk or spatula.
- Stir in peppermint extract last to ensure it's evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. **Pour Batter Into Pan**:
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread out evenly using a spatula.
6. **Bake the Cake**:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes.
- The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
7. **Cool and Prepare for Frosting**:
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes.
- Dust the top of the cake lightly with powdered sugar before applying frosting if desired, to create an extra festive look.
- Mix softened butter, confectioner's sugar, and peppermint extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add cocoa powder and mix well; you can also add more peppermint extract for stronger flavor.
9. **Apply Frosting**:
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake with an offset spatula or piping bag.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes, additional peppermint candies, or sprinkles.
10. **Serve and Enjoy**:
- Once decorated, allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator if needed.
#### SEO Keywords
- Chocolate Peppermint Cake Recipe
- Holiday Desserts
- Christmas Treats
- Decadent Baking
- Festive Cakes
By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious and visually appealing chocolate peppermint cake that will be sure to impress your guests. Happy baking!