Moist Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe

Chocolate mint cake recipe is a rich, moist chocolate cake layered with creamy, refreshing mint buttercream frosting. My Baking Addiction inspired me to try this chocolate mint cake recipe, and I made it several times, adjusting sugar slightly and adding extra peppermint extract to enhance the mint flavor.

The chocolate and mint balance beautifully, and the cake stays soft for days. I now show step-by-step how to bake this chocolate mint cake, from mixing the batter to frosting the layers.

Modifying small details makes the chocolate mint cake recipe uniquely mine while keeping it indulgent and flavorful.

About This Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe

This chocolate mint cake recipe delivers a rich, deep chocolate flavor that melts smoothly on the tongue. The peppermint adds a cool, refreshing note that balances the sweetness of the cake and buttercream frosting.

Moist and tender layers create a soft texture that feels indulgent, while the mint buttercream provides a creamy, slightly sweet topping that enhances the chocolate without being sharp.

The chocolate taste is bold but not bitter, and the mint offers a gentle lift that brightens each slice. The frosting’s texture is silky, making every mouthful creamy and delightful.

Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe
Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe

How To Prepare Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Total time: 1 hour

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 servings

Kitchen Utensils Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and/or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9-inch round cake pans (2)
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Spatula

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Mint Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • 1–2 teaspoons peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
  • 2–3 drops green food coloring

Instructions

1. Turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round pans, place parchment on the bottom, and lightly flour the sides.

2. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl. Mix so everything is even.

3. Whisk the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla, and peppermint together in a separate bowl until smooth.

4. Slowly stir the egg mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until it comes together. Don’t stir too much. Add the boiling water carefully. The batter will be thin, which is normal and makes the cake soft.

5. Split the batter between the two pans and bake for 35–40 minutes. Test with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done. Let the cakes sit in the pans for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. To make the frosting, beat softened butter until creamy. Mix in powdered sugar a little at a time. Add cream (or milk), peppermint, and food coloring, beating until fluffy. Adjust with more sugar or cream if needed.

7. Place one cake layer on a plate and spread frosting over it. Put the second layer on top and cover the whole cake with frosting. Decorate as you like. Chill for about 30 minutes to make cutting easier.

Nutrition Facts Of Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories450 kcal
Fat22g
Carbohydrates60g
Protein5g
Sugar45g

Why Peoples Like Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe?

People like chocolate mint cake recipe because it combines the rich, indulgent flavor of chocolate with the cool, refreshing taste of mint.

The chocolate mint cake recipe moist, soft texture paired with creamy mint frosting creates a delightful contrast that feels both decadent and refreshing.

The flavor balance appeals to those who enjoy sweet desserts without being overly heavy, and the subtle peppermint note adds a unique twist to traditional chocolate cake.

Chocolate mint cake recipe visual appeal, often enhanced with green frosting or decorations, also makes it attractive for celebrations and special treats.

Why My Recipe Works

My chocolate mint cake recipe works because it balances the richness of chocolate with the cool, refreshing flavor of peppermint, creating a harmonious taste.

The combination of boiling water and cocoa powder ensures the cake stays moist and tender, while the proper ratio of baking powder and baking soda allows it to rise evenly.

Eggs, milk, and vegetable oil contribute to a soft, delicate crumb that holds the frosting well. The mint buttercream is creamy and lightly sweetened, enhancing the chocolate without overpowering it.

Careful mixing and layering produce a cake that bakes evenly and tastes consistently delicious every time.

How To Decorate And Serve This Recipe

To decorate and serve this chocolate mint cake recipe, start by leveling the cooled cake layers so they stack evenly. Spread a thick layer of mint buttercream on top of the first layer, then gently place the second cake layer on top.

Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it with an offset spatula for a clean finish.

Add extra touches like chocolate shavings, crushed peppermint candies, or a light drizzle of chocolate ganache for visual appeal.

Slice the cake with a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, and serve on a cake stand or plate for an elegant presentation.

When To Serve

Chocolate mint cake recipe is best served after the cake has fully cooled and the buttercream frosting has set, usually about 30 minutes to an hour after assembly.

Serving it slightly chilled enhances the refreshing mint flavor and keeps the frosting firm, making clean slices easier. It can be enjoyed as a dessert after lunch or dinner, during afternoon tea, or at special gatherings and celebrations.

The chocolate mint cake recipe also keeps well for a couple of days at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator, allowing it to be served in advance for parties or family occasions.

Expert Baking Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Eggs, milk, and butter that are at room temperature blend more smoothly into the batter. This ensures a uniform texture and prevents the cake from being dense or lumpy.

2. Sift Dry Ingredients – Sifting flour, cocoa powder, and leavening agents helps remove clumps and evenly distributes baking powder and sodas, giving the cake a light, even crumb.

3. Weigh Ingredients for Precision – Using a kitchen scale for flour, sugar, and cocoa ensures consistent results. Small variations in dry ingredients can make a cake dry, heavy, or uneven.

4. Mix Gently – Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the cake tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a soft, tender crumb.

5. Incorporate Boiling Water Carefully – Adding boiling water to the batter deepens the chocolate flavor and creates a moist texture. Mix slowly to avoid splashing and maintain a smooth batter.

6. Cool Layers Completely Before Frosting – Frosting a warm cake can melt buttercream and ruin the appearance. Let the cake layers cool fully on a wire rack to hold the frosting perfectly.

7. Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerating the finished cake for 15–20 minutes firms the frosting, making it easier to cut clean slices without smudging or tearing the cake.

Additions And Variations

➤ Chocolate Ganache Drizzle – Pour a rich chocolate ganache over the frosted cake for a glossy, indulgent finish that adds extra chocolate intensity.

➤ Peppermint Candy Topping – Crush peppermint candies or candy canes and sprinkle them over the frosting for a festive crunch and added mint flavor.

➤ Layered Chocolate Chips – Add mini chocolate chips between the cake layers for pockets of melted chocolate that enhance texture and richness.

➤ Mint Extract Adjustment – Increase or decrease peppermint extract in the frosting to create a stronger or milder mint flavor according to preference.

➤ Coffee or Espresso Twist – Mix a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder into the batter to deepen the chocolate flavor and add a subtle mocha note.

Substitutions

➢ Flour – Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio. Add 1 tsp xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t already contain it.

➢ Milk – Substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.

➢ Buttercream – Use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil in place of unsalted butter for vegan frosting.

➢ Sugar – Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a 1:1 baking sugar alternative to reduce refined sugar.

➢ Vegetable Oil – Use melted coconut oil or neutral oil like canola if vegetable oil is unavailable.

➢ Eggs – Replace each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) for an egg-free version.

➢ Peppermint Extract – Substitute peppermint extract with spearmint extract or omit it entirely for a plain chocolate cake version.

Proper Storage

Proper storage of chocolate mint cake recipe helps maintain its flavor and texture. The cake can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days, protecting it from drying out.

For longer storage, refrigerate the chocolate mint cake recipe, covered or in a container, for up to five days; chilling also helps the buttercream firm up.

To preserve freshness even further, the cake layers can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to two months. Before serving, allow refrigerated or frozen cake to come to room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of regular?

Yes, using dark cocoa will intensify the chocolate flavor. You may need to slightly adjust sugar for balance.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly in plastic and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before frosting.

Can I adjust the mint flavor?

Absolutely, increase or decrease peppermint extract in the batter or frosting to suit personal preference.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting?

Ensure the cake layers are completely cooled before frosting. Refrigerate the finished cake briefly if your kitchen is warm.

Can I add decorations?

Yes, chocolate shavings, crushed peppermint candies, or a ganache drizzle work beautifully to enhance appearance and flavor.

Conclusion

This chocolate mint cake recipe is a favorite for many because of its rich chocolate flavor and refreshing mint frosting. After making it several times for gatherings, I enjoyed serving it to friends and family, who all loved it.

The process is simple to follow, and the results are always moist, flavorful, and visually appealing. I wanted to share my easy method so others can recreate it without stress.

I hope anyone who tries this chocolate mint cake recipe enjoys baking and tasting it as much as I did.

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Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe

Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe

Sophia
This chocolate mint cake recipe delivers a rich, deep chocolate flavor that melts smoothly on the tongue. The peppermint adds a cool, refreshing note that balances the sweetness of the cake and buttercream frosting.
Moist and tender layers create a soft texture that feels indulgent, while the mint buttercream provides a creamy, slightly sweet topping that enhances the chocolate without being sharp.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and/or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9-inch round cake pans (2)
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1¾ cups 220g all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup 65g unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups 400g granulated sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 cup 240ml whole milk
  • ½ cup 120ml vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup 240ml boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Mint Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup 230g unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups 480g powdered sugar
  • 2 –3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • 1 –2 teaspoons peppermint extract adjust to taste
  • 2 –3 drops green food coloring

Instructions
 

  • Turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round pans, place parchment on the bottom, and lightly flour the sides.
  • Sift the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl. Mix so everything is even.
  • Whisk the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla, and peppermint together in a separate bowl until smooth.
  • Slowly stir the egg mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until it comes together. Don’t stir too much. Add the boiling water carefully. The batter will be thin, which is normal and makes the cake soft.
  • Split the batter between the two pans and bake for 35–40 minutes. Test with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done. Let the cakes sit in the pans for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • To make the frosting, beat softened butter until creamy. Mix in powdered sugar a little at a time. Add cream (or milk), peppermint, and food coloring, beating until fluffy. Adjust with more sugar or cream if needed.
  • Place one cake layer on a plate and spread frosting over it. Put the second layer on top and cover the whole cake with frosting. Decorate as you like. Chill for about 30 minutes to make cutting easier.

Notes

Nutrition Facts Of Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe

Calories: 450 kcal | Fat: 22g | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 5g | Sugar: 45g
Keyword Chocolate Mint Cake Recipe
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Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.

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