Name: Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 43 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cupcakes:; 1¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ⅔ cup creamy peanut butter; 8 tbsp unsalted butter; ¾ cup dark brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; ¼ cup milk; For Dark Chocolate Frosting:; 2¾ cups confectioners’ sugar; ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 6 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Discover the delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate in cupcake form! This recipe delivers a moist and fluffy peanut butter cupcake topped with a rich dark chocolate frosting. It's a match made in dessert heaven that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples such as flour, sugar, and eggs. However, you might need to pick up a jar of creamy peanut butter and some unsweetened cocoa powder. Make sure to choose a high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor in your frosting.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cupcakes with Dark Chocolate Frosting

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cupcakes, providing structure.

Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cupcakes rise.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Creamy peanut butter: Gives our cupcakes a rich, nutty flavor.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.

Dark brown sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and adds a hint of molasses flavor.

Eggs: Provide structure and help the cupcakes rise.

Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.

Milk: Adds moisture.

Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the frosting.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the frosting a deep chocolate flavor.

Heavy cream: Makes the frosting creamy and spreadable.

One reader, Archer Scales says:

These peanut butter cupcakes with frosting are a game-changer! The cupcakes are moist and flavorful, and the frosting is rich and decadent. The combination of peanut butter and dark chocolate is simply divine. This recipe is a must-try for all peanut butter lovers!

Archer Scales

Techniques Required for Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting Recipe

How to prepare the cupcake batter: Mixing together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then creaming the peanut butter, butter, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, followed by adding eggs, vanilla, and slowly incorporating the flour mixture and milk.

How to bake the cupcakes: Dividing the batter evenly between 12 cupcake tins and baking at 350 degrees F for 23 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

How to make the dark chocolate frosting: Sifting together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then beating the butter until fluffy and gradually adding the sifted sugar-cocoa powder alternately with the heavy cream and vanilla. Adjusting the consistency with more powdered sugar or a pinch of salt if needed.

How To Make Peanut Butter Cupcakes with Frosting

These peanut butter cupcakes are moist and tasty peanut butter snacks, topped with a bold dark chocolate frosting for a completely decadent taste!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 23 minutes

Total: 43 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cupcakes:

1¼cupsall-purpose flour,spooned and leveled
1tspbaking powder
¼tspsalt
⅔cupcreamy peanut butter
8tbspunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
¾cupdark brown sugar,packed
2large eggs
1tsppure vanilla extract
¼cupmilk

For Dark Chocolate Frosting:

2¾cupsconfectioners’ sugar
⅔cupunsweetened cocoa powder
6tbspunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
6tbspheavy cream
1tsppure vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 12-cup muffin pan with liners. Set aside.
Mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
With a handheld or stand mixer, cream together the peanut butter, butter, and brown sugar until light and fluffy for about 2 minutes on medium speed. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add in vanilla. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Slowly beat in the flour mixture alternately with the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not over-mix.
Divide the batter evenly between 12 cupcake tins.
Bake for 23 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool before frosting.

Dark Chocolate Frosting:

Sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to ensure there are no lumps. Set aside.
With a handheld stand mixer, beat the butter at medium speed until fluffy for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the sifted sugar-cocoa powder alternately with the heavy cream and vanilla.
Beat on low speed after each addition. Add more powdered sugar if the frosting is too dark. Add a pinch of salt if the frosting is too sweet.
Frost cooled cupcakes as desired. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Cupcakes stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Calories: 447.30kcal
Fat: 25.31g
Saturated Fat: 12.48g
Trans Fat: 0.56g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.58g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.65g
Carbohydrates: 52.93g
Fiber: 2.84g
Sugar: 37.91g
Protein: 6.98g
Cholesterol: 77.40mg
Sodium: 104.25mg
Calcium: 70.49mg
Potassium: 208.20mg
Iron: 1.79mg
Vitamin A: 159.81µg
Vitamin C: 0.04mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Peanut Butter Cupcakes

To ensure your peanut butter cupcakes are moist and fluffy, avoid over-mixing the batter. Over-mixing can lead to a dense and chewy texture as it develops the gluten in the flour. Just mix until the dry and wet ingredients are combined. Also, when adding eggs, add them one at a time and beat just until incorporated. This will help to keep the batter light and airy, resulting in a softer cupcake.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cupcakes With Peanut Butter Frosting

Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer for mixing the cupcake batter and frosting to save time and effort.

Bake in batches: If your muffin pan is not large enough to bake all cupcakes at once, bake in batches to save time.

Chill the frosting: Place the frosting in the refrigerator while the cupcakes are baking to firm it up for easier piping and decorating.

Double the recipe: Consider doubling the recipe to make extra cupcakes for future enjoyment, saving time on baking again.

Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, providing a similar texture and structure to the cupcakes.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for those with peanut allergies or for a different flavor profile, while still providing a creamy texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar fat content and richness to the cupcakes.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a less refined alternative, adding a slightly different flavor profile to the cupcakes.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder can be used as a substitute, providing a richer, more intense chocolate flavor to the frosting.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar texture and flavor to the frosting.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a rich and creamy texture to the frosting.

Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting

Elevate the plating: When presenting the peanut butter cupcakes, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Consider using a minimalist approach to showcase the cupcakes as the focal point.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal of the plate by incorporating artistic drizzling of dark chocolate frosting around the cupcakes. This adds a touch of sophistication and artistry to the presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by delicately garnishing the plate with edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to add a pop of color and a touch of natural beauty.
Utilize fine dining plating techniques: Apply fine dining plating techniques, such as using precision and attention to detail when arranging the cupcakes and frosting on the plate, to create a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate geometric designs: Consider incorporating geometric designs using the dark chocolate frosting to add a modern and artistic element to the presentation, showcasing precision and creativity.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the cupcakes and frosting to stand out, creating a visually striking and balanced presentation.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider delicately adorning the cupcakes with edible gold leaf to impart an air of opulence and sophistication to the presentation.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Focus on creating a symmetrical and balanced arrangement of the cupcakes and frosting on the plate, showcasing precision and attention to detail.
Incorporate a dusting of cocoa powder: Enhance the visual appeal by incorporating a light dusting of cocoa powder around the plate to add a subtle yet elegant touch to the presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the overall presentation, such as fine china or artisanal ceramic plates, to elevate the dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Peanut Butter Cupcakes

Oven: Used for baking and cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat.
Muffin pan: A pan with cup-shaped indentations used for baking muffins or cupcakes.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Handheld or stand mixer: Used for mixing and beating ingredients to achieve a smooth and uniform consistency.
Sifter: Used to sift dry ingredients such as flour and cocoa powder to remove lumps and aerate them.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure ingredients for baking.
Cupcake liners: Paper or foil liners used to line the muffin pan and prevent cupcakes from sticking.
Spatula: Used for scraping the sides of the bowl and spreading frosting on the cupcakes.
Toothpick: Used to check the doneness of cupcakes by inserting it into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
Pastry bag and tip: Used for piping frosting onto the cupcakes in decorative patterns.

Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting

Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep the cupcakes fresh for a longer period, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften.
To freeze the unfrosted cupcakes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes at room temperature for a few hours before frosting.
If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip with a mixer to restore its creamy texture.
Note: It's not recommended to freeze the cupcakes with the frosting on top, as the texture of the frosting may change upon thawing. It's best to frost the cupcakes just before serving for optimal taste and appearance.

How To Reheat Leftover Cupcakes

To reheat leftover peanut butter cupcakes with frosting, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the cupcakes warm up evenly without drying out or burning the frosting.
Remove the cupcakes from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the cupcakes warm up more evenly and prevent the frosting from melting too quickly.
Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure to space them out evenly to allow for proper heat circulation.
If you want to prevent the frosting from melting too much, you can create a tent using aluminum foil. Loosely cover the cupcakes with the foil, ensuring that it doesn't touch the frosting. This will help keep the frosting intact while the cupcakes reheat.
Place the baking sheet with the cupcakes in the preheated oven and reheat for about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don't overheat or burn.
Alternatively, you can use a microwave to reheat the cupcakes. Place a cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cupcake, as it can cause the frosting to melt and the cake to become rubbery.
If the frosting appears slightly melted after reheating, you can place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help the frosting set again.
Once the cupcakes are warmed to your liking, serve and enjoy your delicious, reheated peanut butter cupcakes with chocolate frosting!

Random Fact About Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting Recipe

The peanut butter cupcakes with frosting recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and dark chocolate. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests at any gathering. The combination of creamy peanut butter and decadent dark chocolate frosting creates a delicious and indulgent dessert. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked cupcakes filling your kitchen is an added bonus! Enjoy creating and savoring these delightful peanut butter cupcakes with rich dark chocolate frosting.

Is Making Peanut Butter Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this peanut butter cupcakes with dark chocolate frosting recipe is quite favorable for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 9. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it an affordable and delightful treat for the family.

Are Peanut Butter Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?

The peanut butter cupcakes with dark chocolate frosting recipe is a delightful treat, but it's not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutrients found in whole grain flours.
It contains a significant amount of sugar, both in the cupcakes (brown sugar) and the frosting (confectioners' sugar).
The recipe calls for butter and heavy cream, which are high in saturated fats.
Peanut butter, while a good source of protein and healthy fats, is also calorie-dense.

However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cupcakes by using a sugar substitute like applesauce or mashed bananas. This will also add moisture and natural sweetness.
Opt for a natural, unsweetened peanut butter to avoid added sugars and oils.
Replace the butter with Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier fat alternative.
Use dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or more) for the frosting, as it contains less sugar and more antioxidants compared to milk chocolate.
Reduce the amount of frosting used on each cupcake, or skip it altogether and opt for a light dusting of cocoa powder instead.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Cupcake Recipe

The combination of creamy peanut butter cupcakes with rich dark chocolate frosting creates a delightful balance of flavors. The cupcakes are moist and tender, with a subtle nuttiness from the peanut butter, while the dark chocolate frosting adds a decadent touch. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful side dish by adding roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes. The roasted garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor to the classic side dish.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Elevate your meal with colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable skewers. The combination of fresh vegetables and a light marinade creates a delicious and healthy side dish.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: Add a refreshing and sweet side dish to your meal with a fruit salad drizzled with a honey-lime dressing. The combination of fresh fruits and a tangy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up your meal with a creamy tomato basil soup. The rich and comforting flavors of the soup pair perfectly with the peanut butter cupcakes for a satisfying meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting

Spicy Beef Tacos: These spicy beef tacos are a perfect combination of heat and flavor, with a mix of spices that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken is a refreshing and tropical twist on a classic dish, with the sweetness of mango balancing out the savory flavors of the chicken.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and hearty option for a cozy night in, with the rich flavors of tomato and basil coming together in a velvety smooth texture.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve With Peanut Butter Cupcakes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and flavorful Caprese skewers. Fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze, are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over fettuccine for a classic and comforting meal that is sure to satisfy any pasta lover.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry using thinly sliced beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce. The combination of tender beef and crisp veggies makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be served over rice or noodles.

Why trust this Peanut Butter Cupcakes With Frosting Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable experience, as it features creamy peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder for rich, indulgent flavors. The combination of dark brown sugar and unsalted butter ensures a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. With meticulous attention to detail, the instructions guide you through creating moist, flavorful cupcakes and a luscious dark chocolate frosting. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with irresistible desserts that will impress and delight.

Want to share your experience making these delicious peanut butter cupcakes or discuss your own frosting variations? Join the conversation in our Baking and Desserts forum section and connect with fellow baking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for the cupcakes?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your cupcakes. Just keep in mind that the texture of the cupcakes will be slightly different.

Can I use a different type of frosting for the cupcakes?

Absolutely! While the dark chocolate frosting complements the peanut butter cupcakes well, you can certainly use a different frosting of your choice. Cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla buttercream would also work beautifully.

Can I make these cupcakes in advance and freeze them?

Yes, you can make the cupcakes in advance and freeze them. Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost as desired.

Can I substitute the dark brown sugar with granulated sugar?

While dark brown sugar adds a rich flavor to the cupcakes, you can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar if needed. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

How should I store the frosted cupcakes?

Store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them for a longer period, it's best to refrigerate them. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.