We’ve always been fans of the refreshing minty zing in Creme De Menthe and our take on this classic cake brings it to life in every bite. Originating from liqueur-infused desserts it’s a fun twist that’s perfect for holidays or casual gatherings.
This easy recipe combines simple ingredients for a moist treat that’ll impress without fuss. Join us as we share our foolproof version that’s become a favorite in our kitchen.
Ingredients
To bring our irresistible Creme De Menthe Cake to life—a moist and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion—we’ve compiled a precise list of ingredients. We’ll order them as they typically appear in the preparation process, with notes on any necessary prep for optimal results.
For the Cake Batter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and structure.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Softened at room temperature for easy creaming.
- 3 large eggs: At room temperature to promote even rising.
- *½ cup Creme De Menthe liqueur: The star flavor, providing a refreshing minty kick—use a high-quality brand for best taste.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: To help the cake rise perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor balance.
- *¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)*: For a chocolate-mint variation that adds depth.
For the Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sifted to avoid lumps.
- *¼ cup Creme De Menthe liqueur: Adds a glossy finish and intensifies the mint notes.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Softened for a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- *1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the aromatic profile.
This selection ensures our Creme De Menthe Cake delivers on both ease and impressive results, using straightforward, high-impact ingredients for a foolproof bake.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Creme De Menthe Cake, let’s gather the essential tools that make baking straightforward and efficient. Having the right equipment ensures smooth mixing, even baking, and professional results, building on the ingredients we’ve already outlined.
We recommend the following key items, organized by their role in the process:
- Mixing Bowls: Two to three medium-sized stainless steel or glass bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients. These allow us to whisk everything together without spills.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and liquid measuring cups (for liqueur and extracts), plus spoons for precise measurements. Accuracy here is crucial for achieving the cake’s moist texture.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer for creaming butter and sugar; if opting for a whisk, choose a sturdy one to incorporate air for a light, fluffy batter.
- Sifter: A fine-mesh sifter for flour and powdered sugar, which helps eliminate lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety frosting.
- Baking Pan: A 9-inch round cake pan (preferably non-stick or greased) for even baking; this is key for a uniform rise and that signature minty layer.
- Spatula and Rubber Scraper: Heat-resistant silicone spatulas for folding ingredients and scraping bowls clean, preventing waste and ensuring every bit of our Creme De Menthe flavor shines through.
- Oven and Oven Thermometer: A standard oven preheated to the required temperature, paired with a thermometer for accuracy—we rely on this to avoid overbaking and maintain the cake’s fresh, liqueur-infused moisture.
- Cooling Rack: A wire rack to let the cake cool evenly after baking, locking in flavors and preventing sogginess.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly to the preparation steps, making our Creme De Menthe Cake a foolproof delight.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment lined up, we guide you through the straightforward steps to bake a moist, minty Creme De Menthe Cake that bursts with refreshing flavor and delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and herbal notes.
Prep
Before we begin, let’s prepare our batter to ensure a light and airy texture. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F for even baking. In a large mixing bowl, sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt to remove lumps and incorporate air, creating a fluffy base.
Next, in another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes—this step builds a rich foundation that traps air for a tender crumb. Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each to maintain smoothness and enhance the cake’s structure.
Gradually incorporate ½ cup of Creme De Menthe liqueur, which infuses a cool, invigorating mint essence that will make your kitchen smell irresistibly fresh. For a chocolate-mint twist, fold in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder if desired. Finally, gently stir in the sifted dry ingredients until just combined, avoiding overmixing to prevent a tough texture—aim for a batter that’s smooth yet slightly viscous, promising a melt-in-your-mouth result.
Bake
With our batter ready, it’s time to bake for that golden, perfectly risen finish. Grease and flour a 9-inch round baking pan to ensure easy release, then pour the batter evenly into the pan for uniform cooking.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—monitor closely after 30 minutes to avoid overbaking, as the cake should emerge moist with a slight spring to the touch. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, allowing the minty aroma to fill the air and the cake to set without collapsing.
Assemble and Frost
After cooling, let’s assemble and frost to create a glossy, decadent topping that elevates the cake’s appeal. First, transfer the cooled cake to a wire rack and let it cool completely, about 1 hour, so the layers don’t crumble when frosted.
In a clean bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 4 cups of sifted powdered sugar until creamy, then add ¼ cup of Creme De Menthe liqueur and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable—this frosting should have a silky texture with a vibrant mint flavor that complements the cake’s moist interior. Using a spatula, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake, creating swirls for an elegant look that hints at the refreshing taste waiting inside. If making a layered cake, slice the cooled cake horizontally and add frosting between layers for added height and flavor depth.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our foolproof Creme De Menthe Cake recipe with you. It’s a simple way to bring fresh, minty delight to any occasion.
Baking this treat has become a staple in our kitchen, and we’re sure it’ll impress your family and friends too. Give it a try and make it your own signature dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creme De Menthe Cake?
Creme De Menthe Cake is a refreshing, liqueur-infused dessert inspired by the minty flavor of Creme De Menthe liqueur. It’s perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, offering a moist, impressive treat that’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients. This foolproof recipe delivers a light texture and glossy frosting, making it a favorite for any occasion.
What ingredients are needed for Creme De Menthe Cake?
For the cake batter, you’ll need sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, softened unsalted butter, large eggs, Creme De Menthe liqueur, baking powder, salt, and optional cocoa powder for a chocolate-mint twist. The frosting requires sifted powdered sugar, more Creme De Menthe liqueur, softened unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. These high-impact ingredients ensure easy, delicious results.
What equipment is required to bake Creme De Menthe Cake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or hand whisk, a sifter, a 9-inch round baking pan, spatulas, an oven with a thermometer, and a cooling rack. These items help achieve a smooth process and professional, moist results for your bake.
How do I make Creme De Menthe Cake?
Start by preheating your oven and sifting dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs and Creme De Menthe liqueur for minty flavor. Mix into a light batter, bake in a prepared pan, and cool. Frost with a blend of butter, powdered sugar, and liqueur for a glossy finish. Layer for extra height and depth—simple steps for a stunning dessert.
Can I make variations to the Creme De Menthe Cake recipe?
Yes, add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-mint version, or experiment with extracts for different flavors. Keep the core ingredients for best results, and adjust liqueur amounts for milder taste. This flexible recipe is easy to customize while maintaining its moist texture and appeal.
Is Creme De Menthe Cake suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s beginner-friendly with straightforward steps and common ingredients. The recipe uses basic techniques like mixing and baking, plus clear instructions for a foolproof outcome. With the right tools, even new bakers can create an impressive, moist cake for any gathering.