Mint Chocolate Cake for Fresh Flavor Fans

Ingredients:

• 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp peppermint extract

• 1 cup boiling water

• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For Mint Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups powdered sugar

• 2-3 tbsp milk

• 1 tsp peppermint extract

• Green food coloring (optional)

• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

   • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir to mix.

   • Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

   • Gradually add boiling water to the batter. It will be thin, but that's okay.

   • Fold in the mini chocolate chips (if using).

   • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

   • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the mint frosting:

   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

   • Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with milk until smooth and fluffy.

   • Add peppermint extract and a few drops of green food coloring if desired.

   • Mix well until the frosting is light and airy.

3. Assemble the cake:

   • Place one layer of cake on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of mint frosting on top.

   • Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

   • Garnish with mini chocolate chips on top.

4. Serve and enjoy!

   • Slice and enjoy your refreshing mint chocolate cake with a burst of flavor!