Festive Minty Shamrock Cupcakes (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Cupcakes

01 - 432 grams white cake mix (boxed)
02 - 3 large egg whites
03 - 237 milliliters water
04 - 79 milliliters vegetable oil
05 - 0.25 to 0.5 teaspoons mint or peppermint extract
06 - 0.5 teaspoon green food coloring

→ Frosting

07 - 474 grams heavy whipping cream
08 - 4 tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix

→ Optional Toppings

09 - Green sprinkles
10 - Maraschino cherries

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line cupcake pans with paper liners to facilitate removal and presentation.
02 - Combine white cake mix, egg whites, water, vegetable oil, and mint extract in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps. Add green food coloring and stir until color is evenly distributed.
03 - Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
04 - Beat heavy whipping cream at high speed until it begins to thicken. Gradually add instant vanilla pudding mix one tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
05 - Pipe or spread the prepared frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Garnish with green sprinkles and top each with a maraschino cherry for a festive finish.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Adjust mint extract quantity to taste; start small and increase gradually for preferred intensity.
02 - Use gel-based food coloring for vibrant green color without altering batter consistency.
03 - Refrigerate cupcakes for one hour before serving for a refreshing treat.