Description
These Shamrock Shake Cupcakes are a festive and fun way to enjoy the classic Shamrock Shake flavor in cupcake form. Soft, mint-flavored cupcakes topped with creamy mint buttercream frosting, they’re perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or anytime you want a delicious, minty treat. Easy to make and full of flavor, these cupcakes will be the star of your next celebration!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 box (15.25 oz/432g) white cake mix
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup (237ml) water
- 1/3 cup (79ml) vegetable oil
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon mint or peppermint extract (adjust based on taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon green food coloring
For the Mint Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- A few drops of green food coloring (optional)
Instructions
For the Cupcakes:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, egg whites, water, vegetable oil, and mint extract. Beat on low for 30 seconds, then medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Add the green color: Add green food coloring to reach your desired color and mix well.
- Fill the liners: Pour batter into the cupcake liners, filling about 2/3 full.
- Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for 5 minutes in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Frosting:
- Make the frosting: Beat softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream, peppermint extract, and food coloring. Beat on high until fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Frost the cupcakes: Once cupcakes are cool, frost them generously with the mint buttercream. Use a piping bag for decoration or spread with a spatula.
Notes
- Chocolate mint twist: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder for a chocolate base and pair with chocolate mint frosting.
- Vegan version: Use a vegan cake mix and substitute egg whites with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).
- Garnish: For extra flair, add green sprinkles or a mint leaf on top of the frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American