Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Batter - In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well until combined. Gradually add in the melted mint chip ice cream, stirring until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Fill the Cupcake Liners - Line your cupcake pan with paper liners. Using an ice cream scoop or a measuring cup, fill each liner about two-thirds full with the cupcake batter.
Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes - Place the filled cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting - While the cupcakes are cooling, take the vanilla frosting and add a few drops of peppermint extract and green food coloring. Mix well.
Step 6: Frost the Cupcakes - Once the cupcakes are completely cool, transfer the mint-infused frosting into a piping bag or a zip-top bag. Pipe the frosting onto the tops of each cupcake.
Step 7: Garnish - Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the frosted cupcakes for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
