Follow these easy steps to create your Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcakes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips to the batter.
6. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full.
7. Bake: Place the cupcake tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cupcakes: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream. Mix until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the peppermint extract and add food coloring if desired.
10. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, generously frost each cupcake with the mint frosting. Top with additional chocolate chips for garnish.

By following these steps, you will create a batch of Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcakes that are sure to delight!