Why You Need to Make This Mint Chocolate Chip Cake
If you’re a fan of all things mint and chocolate, this cake is a must-try. It’s moist, fluffy, and packed with both chocolate chips and fresh mint for a deliciously refreshing twist. This cake is perfect for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the hot water, mixing until the batter is smooth.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped mint.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cakes have cooled, you can frost and decorate them as desired. Enjoy!
Variations
- Vegan: To make this cake vegan, substitute the buttermilk for a plant-based milk of your choice (such as almond milk or soy milk). Use a vegan egg substitute in place of the eggs.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
- Mint frosting: If you want to really amp up the mint flavor, you can make a mint frosting to go with the cake. Simply mix together 1 cup of softened butter, 4 cups of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of milk, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp of peppermint extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and enjoy!
- Chocolate ganache: For an extra decadent touch, you can make a chocolate ganache to pour over the top of the cake. Simply heat 1 cup of heavy cream until it just starts to simmer, then pour it over 1 1/2 cups of chopped chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth, then pour over the cooled cake.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mint Chocolate Chip Cake
- Use fresh mint: For the best flavor, use fresh mint in this recipe. You can chop it finely and mix it into the batter for a subtle mint flavor throughout the cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough and dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and the batter is smooth.
- Let the cakes cool completely: It’s important to let the cakes cool completely before frosting and decorating them. If the cakes are still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off.
- Store in the fridge: Because of the frosting, it’s best to store this cake in the fridge. It will keep for up to 4-5 days.
Now that you know how to make this delicious Mint Chocolate Chip Cake, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.
FAQ
What is a Mint Chocolate Chip Cake?
A Mint Chocolate Chip Cake is a dessert made with layers of chocolate cake and mint frosting, topped with chocolate chips. The cake is moist, fluffy and has a delicious minty flavor.
What ingredients do I need to make a Mint Chocolate Chip Cake?
To make a Mint Chocolate Chip Cake, you will need all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, heavy cream, powdered sugar, green food coloring, and chocolate chips.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can make this cake without eggs by using an egg substitute such as mashed bananas, applesauce, or yogurt. However, the texture and flavor of the cake may be slightly different.
Can I use a different type of frosting instead of mint frosting?
Yes, you can use a different type of frosting such as vanilla or chocolate frosting. However, the mint frosting is what gives this cake its unique flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. You can bake the cake layers and prepare the frosting a day in advance. Store the cake layers in an airtight container at room temperature and the frosting in the refrigerator. Assemble the cake and add the chocolate chips on the day you plan to serve it.
How do I store leftovers of this cake?
To store leftovers of this cake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
How do I make the cake layers level?
To make the cake layers level, use a serrated knife to trim off the top of each layer until it is flat. This will help the cake layers stack evenly.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the chocolate chips?
Yes, you can use any type of chocolate for the chocolate chips such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate. You can also use chocolate chunks or chopped chocolate instead of chocolate chips.
Can I use a different type of cake pan?
Yes, you can use a different type of cake pan such as a 9x13 inch baking pan or a bundt pan. However, the baking time and temperature may need to be adjusted.
