1. Prepare Your Baking Setup

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F or 180°C. Line a standard muffin tin with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal and a clean presentation. Preparing your pan in advance helps streamline the process once the batter is ready.

Measure all your ingredients beforehand. Having everything ready prevents overmixing and ensures better consistency in the batter.

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2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.

This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, which helps create a soft and tender cupcake texture. Take your time here and do not rush this process.

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3. Add Oil for Moisture

Pour in the vegetable oil and mix until fully combined. The addition of oil alongside butter ensures that the cupcakes stay moist even after cooling.

Continue mixing until the texture is smooth and cohesive.

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4. Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows the batter to emulsify properly and prevents curdling.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.

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5. Add Vanilla Flavoring

Mix in the vanillina or vanilla extract. This enhances the overall flavor profile and gives the cupcakes a classic, sweet aroma that pairs perfectly with the mint frosting.

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6. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.

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7. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry ingredients, then add some milk, and continue this pattern until everything is combined.

Mix just until the batter comes together. Overmixing at this stage can result in dense cupcakes.

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8. Fill the Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two thirds full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.

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9. Bake to Perfection

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

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10. Prepare the Mint Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the mint extract and mix until evenly distributed.

Gradually add the confectioners sugar, one cup at a time, mixing continuously until you achieve a smooth and fluffy frosting.

If needed, you can adjust the consistency with a small amount of milk, but the frosting should remain thick enough to hold its shape when piped.

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11. Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with your desired tip.

Pipe the frosting generously onto each cupcake, creating a swirl or decorative pattern. The mint aroma will be noticeable and refreshing.

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12. Final Touch and Serving

Serve the cupcakes immediately or store them in an airtight container. These cupcakes taste best when fresh but can be enjoyed over a couple of days.

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