This delectable peanut butter cupcakes recipe is a real treat for those who adore the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter. The cupcakes are moist, fluffy, and brimming with peanut-y goodness. The chocolate peanut butter frosting adds an extra indulgent touch, making these cupcakes a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Photos of Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe
Most of the ingredients required for this recipe are generally found in a well-stocked pantry, such as all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. However, you may need to buy a few special items. Pay extra attention to the type of peanut butter you're buying; opt for creamy over chunky to achieve a smooth texture for your cupcakes. Also, don't forget the mini reese’s peanut butter cups for garnish, which could be found in the candy aisle of the supermarket.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cupcakes with Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting
all-purpose flour: This is the main dry ingredient that gives structure to the cupcakes.
baking soda: It acts as a leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
canola oil: This will add moisture to the cupcakes.
peanut butter: This gives the cupcakes their signature nutty flavor.
brown sugar: It sweetens the cupcakes and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and aids in leavening.
sour cream: This ingredient adds moisture and richness to the cupcakes.
vanilla extract: It enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
milk: Milk adds moisture and helps to create a tender crumb in the cupcakes.
peanuts: These are added for extra crunch and flavor.
butter: Butter is used in the frosting for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
confectioners’ sugar: This sugar is perfect for making smooth and creamy frosting.
cocoa powder: This adds the chocolate flavor to the frosting.
heavy cream: It helps to create a smooth and spreadable frosting.
mini reese’s peanut butter cups: These are used for a fun and tasty garnish.
One reader, Heinrick Sheffield says:
These peanut butter cupcakes are a game-changer! The moist, fluffy texture combined with the rich peanut butter flavor is simply divine. And that chocolate peanut butter frosting? It's pure bliss. I can't get enough of these heavenly treats!
Techniques Required for Making Peanut Butter Cupcakes
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Mix the oil, peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract together in a large bowl. Add the dry ingredients, milk, and peanuts and whisk or beat together until completely combined. Avoid overmixing.
How to bake the cupcakes: Pour or spoon the batter into the liners, filling only ⅔ full to avoid baking over the sides. Bake for 21 to 23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops of the cupcakes spring back when gently touched.
How to prepare the chocolate peanut butter frosting: Beat the butter on medium speed until creamy. Add the confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and milk. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then add the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until combined.
How to frost the cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the chocolate peanut butter frosting using a piping bag or offset spatula.
How to garnish the cupcakes: Garnish the frosted cupcakes with a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup on top, if desired.
How To Make Peanut Butter Cupcakes
Enjoy a tasty treat with these peanut butter cupcakes made extra fluffy with more milk, creamy peanut butter, topped with chocolate peanut butter frosting.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1¼cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- ½tspbaking soda
- ¼tspsalt
- ½cupcanola oil,or vegetable oil
- ½cupcreamy peanut butter
- 1cuplight brown sugar,or dark brown sugar, packed
- 1large egg,at room temperature
- ⅓cupsour cream,at room temperature
- 1½tsppure vanilla extract
- ¾cupwhole milk,at room temperature
- ⅓cuppeanuts,very finely crushed, or chopped
For Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- 3½cupsconfectioners’ sugar
- ½cupunsweetened natural cocoa powder,or dutch-process cocoa powder
- 3tbspheavy cream,or milk
- ⅓cupcreamy peanut butter
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- ¼tspsalt
- Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups,or chopped peanuts, optional, to garnish
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. Line a second pan with 2 to 3 liners.
Cupcakes:
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Whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
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Using a handheld mixer, stand mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment, or a whisk, mix the oil, peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract together in a large bowl.
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Add the dry ingredients, milk, and peanuts and whisk or beat together until completely combined.
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Avoid overmixing. The batter will be slightly thick.
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Pour or spoon the batter into the liners, filling only ⅔ full to avoid baking over the sides.
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Bake for 21 to 23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops of the cupcakes spring back when gently touched.
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Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
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With a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
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Add the confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and milk.
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Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then add the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
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Beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until combined.
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Add ¼ cup more confectioners’ sugar if frosting is too thin, or another 1 to 2 tablespoons of cream or milk if frosting is too thick.
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Taste. Add extra peanut butter or a pinch of salt, if desired.
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Frost the cooled cupcakes.
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Garnish with a peanut butter cup, if desired.
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Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Recipe Notes
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions: The cupcakes can be made ahead 1 day in advance, covered, and stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Frosting can also be made 1 day in advance, covered, and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Frosted or unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Calories: 501.40kcal
- Fat: 31.83g
- Saturated Fat: 11.85g
- Trans Fat: 0.54g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.23g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.03g
- Carbohydrates: 51.69g
- Fiber: 2.33g
- Sugar: 39.46g
- Protein: 6.77g
- Cholesterol: 52.92mg
- Sodium: 141.81mg
- Calcium: 50.53mg
- Potassium: 205.95mg
- Iron: 1.44mg
- Vitamin A: 135.78µg
- Vitamin C: 0.06mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Peanut Butter Cupcakes
When making the peanut butter cupcakes, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This is particularly important for the butter, egg, and sour cream. Room temperature ingredients blend together more easily, resulting in a smoother and more uniform batter. This will ultimately give your cupcakes a lighter, more tender crumb. If you forget to take your ingredients out of the fridge in advance, you can quickly bring eggs to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm water for about 15 minutes. For the butter, you can cut it into small pieces and let it sit out for about half an hour to warm up.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Peanut Butter Cupcakes
Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
One-bowl method: Use a large mixing bowl to combine all the wet ingredients first, then gradually add the dry ingredients. This minimizes cleanup and saves time.
Batch baking: Consider doubling the recipe and baking multiple batches at once to maximize oven usage and reduce overall baking time.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, preventing unnecessary delays during the cooking process.
Efficient multitasking: While the cupcakes are baking, use that time to prepare the frosting or clean up the kitchen to make the most of your time.
Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten intolerance or allergies, providing a similar texture and structure to the cupcakes.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil, as it has a similar neutral flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, providing a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for light brown sugar, providing a slightly different flavor profile with a hint of caramel.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for whole milk, providing a dairy-free alternative with a slightly nutty flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter, providing a dairy-free alternative with a hint of coconut flavor.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: Powdered erythritol can be used as a substitute for confectioners' sugar, providing a sugar-free alternative for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Cupcakes
Elevate the cupcake liners: Choose elegant and high-quality cupcake liners to present the cupcakes in a sophisticated manner. Opt for neutral or earthy tones to complement the rich flavors of the cupcakes.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the cupcakes with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violets. This adds a pop of color and a subtle floral aroma to the presentation.
Incorporate gold leaf accents: For a luxurious touch, consider adding edible gold leaf accents to the frosted cupcakes. The shimmering gold will create a visually stunning presentation that exudes opulence.
Arrange on a tiered dessert stand: Present the cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand to create a visually appealing display. This not only adds height and dimension to the presentation but also showcases the cupcakes as a sophisticated dessert option.
Use a piping bag for frosting: Employ a piping bag with a decorative tip to create intricate and professional-looking frosting designs on the cupcakes. This adds a refined touch and elevates the overall visual appeal.
Dust with cocoa powder: Lightly dust the cupcakes with cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve to create an artistic and refined finish. This adds a touch of elegance and complements the chocolate peanut butter flavor profile.
Present on a marble serving platter: Showcase the cupcakes on a sleek and polished marble serving platter to create a modern and upscale presentation. The contrast of the marble against the cupcakes creates a visually striking display.
Add a drizzle of caramel: Elevate the presentation by delicately drizzling a small amount of caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes. The caramel adds a touch of sophistication and complements the rich flavors of the peanut butter and chocolate frosting.
Essential Tools for Making Peanut Butter Cupcakes
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and cooking, used to bake and heat food.
- Muffin pan: A pan with cup-like molds, used for baking muffins, cupcakes, and other small baked goods.
- Cupcake liners: Paper or foil liners used to line the muffin pan and prevent the cupcakes from sticking.
- Medium bowl: A bowl used for mixing dry ingredients or preparing smaller quantities of food.
- Handheld mixer: A portable electric mixer used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Stand mixer: A larger, stationary mixer with a stand and mixing attachments, used for mixing and whipping ingredients.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
- Measuring cups: Used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
- Measuring spoons: Used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
- Cupcake corer: A tool used to remove the center of cupcakes for filling or decorating.
- Piping bag: A cone-shaped bag used to pipe frosting or icing onto cupcakes and other baked goods.
- Piping tip: A metal or plastic attachment used with a piping bag to create different frosting designs.
- Offset spatula: A spatula with a thin, angled blade used for spreading frosting and smoothing surfaces.
- Cooling rack: A rack used to cool baked goods by allowing air to circulate around them.
- Refrigerator: An appliance used for storing and preserving food, including leftovers and frosted cupcakes.
Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Cupcakes
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze unfrosted cupcakes:
- Place the cooled cupcakes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cupcakes to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw, remove the cupcakes from the freezer and let them come to room temperature before frosting and serving.
- To freeze frosted cupcakes:
- Place the frosted cupcakes on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm, about 2 hours.
- Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap or place them in a single layer in an airtight container.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 1 month.
- To thaw, remove the cupcakes from the freezer and let them come to room temperature before serving.
- If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- To use frozen frosting, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and beat it with a mixer until smooth before using.
How To Reheat Leftover Peanut Butter Cupcakes
The best way to reheat leftover peanut butter cupcakes is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to restore the texture and flavor of the cupcakes without drying them out or making them too moist.
Another option is to use a microwave, but be careful not to overheat the cupcakes. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals, checking after each interval to ensure it doesn't become too hot or soggy. Typically, 20-30 seconds should be sufficient, depending on the power of your microwave.
If you want to reheat multiple cupcakes at once, you can place them in a covered baking dish with a small amount of water at the bottom. The water will create steam, which will help keep the cupcakes moist as they reheat in the oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
For a quicker option, you can also reheat the cupcakes in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
If you have frozen your leftover peanut butter cupcakes, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before reheating. This will help ensure even heating and prevent the cupcakes from becoming too moist or soggy.
Interesting Fact About Peanut Butter Cupcakes
The peanut butter cupcakes recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. These cupcakes are a perfect choice for a special occasion or a simple indulgence. They offer a delicious blend of sweet and salty flavors, making them a popular choice for dessert lovers. The addition of peanuts in the batter adds a delightful crunch to the cupcakes, enhancing the overall texture and taste. With the creamy chocolate peanut butter frosting, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether it's a birthday party or a casual get-together, these cupcakes are a delightful addition to any menu.
Is Making Peanut Butter Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this peanut butter cupcakes recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the recipe allows for adjustments based on available resources, ensuring minimal additional expenses. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an economical choice for a delightful homemade treat. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 9, considering the balance of cost, flavor, and ease of preparation.
Are Peanut Butter Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The peanut butter cupcakes recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, with 1 cup of brown sugar and 3½ cups of confectioners' sugar in the frosting. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
- The recipe uses refined all-purpose flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- The recipe includes a considerable amount of fat from canola oil, peanut butter, butter, and heavy cream. While some fats are essential, excessive intake of saturated fats can contribute to heart disease and other health problems.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the cupcakes and frosting. You can experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates to add sweetness without relying solely on refined sugars.
- Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or oat flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the cupcakes.
- Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter to reduce added sugars and oils.
- Swap the canola oil with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or applesauce to reduce the overall fat content.
- Incorporate more nutritious ingredients into the cupcakes, such as shredded zucchini, carrots, or mashed bananas, to add moisture, fiber, and vitamins.
- Reduce the amount of frosting used or opt for a lighter frosting made with Greek yogurt or whipped cream instead of butter and cream.
- Top the cupcakes with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of chopped nuts instead of candy for a healthier garnish.
Editor's Opinion on This Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe
The peanut butter cupcakes recipe is a delightful combination of rich, nutty flavors and moist, tender texture. The use of creamy peanut butter and sour cream adds depth to the batter, while the chocolate peanut butter frosting provides a luscious, indulgent finish. The addition of peanuts and mini Reese's peanut butter cups offers a delightful crunch and a playful twist. Overall, this recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Enhance Your Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe:
This recipe for peanut butter cupcakes is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. The use of sour cream adds a creamy texture, while the addition of peanuts provides a delightful crunch. The frosting, made with unsweetened natural cocoa powder and creamy peanut butter, complements the cupcakes perfectly. With a balance of sweet and savory, these cupcakes are sure to impress any dessert lover. The inclusion of mini Reese's peanut butter cups as a garnish adds a fun and indulgent touch.
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