Indulge your sweet tooth with these decadent Reese's cupcakes. The rich chocolate cupcakes are filled with Reese's peanut butter cups, then topped with a creamy peanut butter buttercream frosting. They're the perfect treat for parties, potlucks or just a cozy night in.
Photos of Reese’s Cupcakes Recipe
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are staples in a typical pantry, like all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar and eggs. However, if you don't typically bake, you might need to pick up some baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla extract. You'll also need Reese's Peanut Butter Cups – the snack size ones are perfect to fit in the middle of each cupcake. And for the buttercream frosting, make sure you have peanut butter, butter, and heavy cream.
Ingredients for Reese's Cupcakes and Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting
All-purpose flour: Used as the base for the cupcakes, providing structure.
Cocoa powder: Gives the cupcakes a rich, chocolatey flavor.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cupcakes and the frosting.
Baking powder and baking soda: These are leavening agents that cause the cupcakes to rise.
Vegetable oil and milk: Adds moisture to the cupcakes.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Sour cream: Gives the cupcakes a tender crumb and subtle tanginess.
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups: Used for the filling and topping of the cupcakes.
Butter: Makes the buttercream frosting creamy and rich.
Peanut butter: Adds a delicious peanut butter flavor to the frosting.
Heavy cream: Makes the frosting light and fluffy.
One reader, Jacquie Vela says:
The Reese's cupcakes recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter frosting is pure bliss. The cupcakes turned out moist and delicious, and the peanut butter buttercream frosting was the perfect finishing touch. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful treat!
Techniques Required for Making Reese's Cupcakes
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Mixing the dry ingredients, adding the wet ingredients, and incorporating the sour cream and hot water to create a smooth batter.
How to fill the cupcake liners: Adding 2 tablespoons of batter to each liner, placing half of a Reese's in the center, then topping with the remaining batter.
How to make the peanut butter buttercream frosting: Whipping together butter, peanut butter, vanilla, sour cream, and powdered sugar, then slowly adding cream to reach the desired consistency. Whip until pale and fluffy.
How To Make Reese’s Cupcakes
If you’re a fan of the candy, then you’ll love this Reese’s cupcakes recipe. Rich chocolate cupcake is topped with soft and creamy peanut butter frosting.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¾cupsall-purpose flour
- ½cupcocoa powderunsweetened
- ½cupsugargranulated
- ½cupsugarpacked light-brown
- 1tspbaking powder
- ½tspbaking soda
- ¼tspsalt
- ⅓cupvegetable oil
- ⅓cupmilk
- 1largeegg
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ⅓cupwaterhot
- ¼cupsour cream
- 12Snack Size Reese’s6 chopped into halves and 6 chopped into small pieces, not minis
For Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting:
- ½cupbutterat room temperature
- ½cuppeanut butter
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 2½cupssugarpowdered
- 2tbspsour cream
- 4tbspheavy cream
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt for 30 seconds.
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To dry mixture, add in vegetable oil, milk, egg, and vanilla extract and beat with an electric mixer on low speed for 2 minutes.
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Pour in hot water and stir until well combined.
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Add in sour cream and mix until combined.
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Fill each paper-lined muffin cup with 2 tablespoons of batter, then top with half of a Reese’s (in the center) then divide remaining batter over cupcakes (about 2 tablespoons each).
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Bake in preheated oven for 16 to 19 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cupcake comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs).
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Remove from oven and allow to cool for several minutes in muffin pan then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Once cool, frost with peanut butter buttercream frosting,
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Chop remaining Reese’s and top cupcakes with chopped Reese’s. Store in an airtight container.
Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting:
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In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip butter, and peanut butter on medium-high speed for about 6 minutes, or until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl occasionally.
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Blend in vanilla, sour cream, and powdered sugar and slowly add cream to reach the desired consistency. Add a pinch of salt if needed.
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Whip mixture on medium speed for 5 to 6 minutes or until pale and fluffy,.
Nutrition
- Calories: 491.62kcal
- Fat: 23.79g
- Saturated Fat: 8.86g
- Trans Fat: 0.37g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.97g
- Carbohydrates: 69.61g
- Fiber: 2.08g
- Sugar: 60.19g
- Protein: 4.96g
- Cholesterol: 46.89mg
- Sodium: 149.74mg
- Calcium: 63.11mg
- Potassium: 155.22mg
- Iron: 1.21mg
- Vitamin A: 106.98µg
- Vitamin C: 0.09mg
Helpful Technique for Making Reese's Cupcakes
When making the peanut butter buttercream frosting, ensure that the butter and peanut butter are at room temperature before you start. This will ensure that they blend together smoothly and create a creamy, fluffy texture. If the butter or peanut butter are too cold, they may not blend well and could result in a lumpy frosting. Additionally, whipping the frosting for the full 5 to 6 minutes will incorporate more air, making it lighter and fluffier.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Reese's Cupcakes
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry and wet ingredients the night before and store them separately. This will save time on the day of baking.
Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer to quickly and efficiently mix the cupcake batter and frosting, saving time and effort compared to hand mixing.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the necessary ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process and avoid last-minute searches.
Substitute Ingredients For Reese’s Cupcakes 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.
cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is a suitable alternative for those looking to avoid caffeine, and it offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor similar to cocoa powder.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener alternative, providing a caramel-like flavor and lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to vegetable oil, reducing the overall fat content while adding moisture to the cupcakes.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a slightly nutty flavor and creamy texture to the cupcakes.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water): This vegan-friendly substitute provides binding properties similar to eggs and adds a nutty flavor to the cupcakes.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative, offering a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture to the cupcakes.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as an alternative for those with peanut allergies, providing a similar nutty flavor and creamy consistency.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a subtle coconut flavor and a similar fat content to butter.
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 Reese's Cupcakes
Elevate the cupcake: Place the cupcake on a pristine white plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the presentation. Arrange the cupcakes in a circular pattern, with the chopped Reese's on top, creating a visually appealing and inviting display.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a rich chocolate sauce in a delicate, artistic pattern around the edge of the plate, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Utilize edible flowers: Garnish the plate with a few carefully selected edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to introduce a pop of color and a hint of natural beauty to the presentation.
Implement precision: Ensure that the frosting is meticulously piped onto the cupcakes, creating a flawless and professional appearance that reflects the skill and attention to detail put into the dish.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the cupcakes in a symmetrical pattern, ensuring that each one is positioned with precision and care, creating a visually stunning and balanced presentation.
Incorporate a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious and opulent touch, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of the frosting, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to the overall presentation.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist aesthetic by presenting the cupcakes on a sleek, modern plate, allowing the beauty of the dish to speak for itself without overwhelming the senses with excessive decoration.
Highlight the Reese's: Place a whole Reese's alongside the cupcakes, showcasing the key ingredient and adding a sense of anticipation and indulgence to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Reese's Cupcakes
- Oven: Used for baking and cooking food by exposing it to dry heat.
- Muffin pan: A pan with cup-shaped indentations used for baking muffins or cupcakes.
- Electric mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Wire rack: Used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.
- Paper-lined muffin cups: Used to line the muffin pan and prevent the cupcakes from sticking.
- Paddle attachment: An attachment for an electric stand mixer used for mixing and beating ingredients.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool used for scraping, spreading, or smoothing frosting.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for baking and cooking.
- Knife: Used for chopping and cutting ingredients, such as chopping the Reese's for the topping.
- Food processor: Used for blending and processing ingredients, such as chopping nuts or making frosting.
- Mixing bowl: Used for mixing and combining ingredients for the cupcake batter and frosting.
- Piping bag: Used for piping the peanut butter buttercream frosting onto the cupcakes.
- Stand mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Reese's Cupcakes
- Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep the frosting from sticking to the lid, place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper over the top of the cupcakes before sealing the container.
- If you want to store the cupcakes for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When you're ready to enjoy the cupcakes, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
- For unfrosted cupcakes, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze unfrosted cupcakes, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- If you have leftover peanut butter buttercream frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using the frosting, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip with a mixer to restore its creamy texture.
- To maintain the best quality and flavor of the Reese's cupcakes, avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause the frosting to melt and the cupcakes to become dry.
How To Reheat Leftover Cupcakes
The best way to reheat leftover Reese's 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 as this can cause the frosting to melt and the cake to become rubbery. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals, checking after each interval to ensure it doesn't overheat.
If you want to reheat multiple cupcakes at once, you can place them in a covered dish or wrap them loosely in foil before placing them in the oven. This will help to prevent them from drying out while they reheat.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use a toaster oven. Simply place the cupcake on a small baking tray or foil and heat it for 2-3 minutes, or until it is warmed through.
If you find that the frosting has become too soft or melted after reheating, you can place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for a few minutes to allow the frosting to firm up again.
Interesting Fact About Reese's Cupcakes
The Reese's Cupcakes recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. It's a perfect dessert for any occasion, and the addition of Reese's adds a delicious surprise in every bite.
Is Making Reese's Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
The Reese's Cupcakes recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of common pantry ingredients and readily available Reese's candies makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, depending on the availability and brand of ingredients. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert option.
Are Reese's Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Reese's cupcakes recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content: The recipe calls for a total of 3 cups of sugar (1 cup in the cupcakes and 2.5 cups in the frosting), which is excessive and can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
- Refined flour: All-purpose flour is used, which is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- Saturated fat: The recipe includes butter, heavy cream, and sour cream, all of which are high in saturated fat. Excessive consumption of saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
- Processed ingredients: Reese's candy is a processed food that contains added sugars and oils, which are not ideal for a healthy diet.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the sugar content by using less sugar in the cupcakes and frosting, or opt for natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates.
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce the saturated fat content and add protein.
- Replace the vegetable oil with coconut oil or avocado oil, which are healthier alternatives.
- Use dark chocolate instead of Reese's candy to reduce the amount of processed ingredients and added sugars. Dark chocolate also contains antioxidants that can provide health benefits.
- Top the cupcakes with chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to add healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
Editor's Opinion on Reese's Cupcakes
The Reese's cupcakes recipe is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with the irresistible taste of peanut butter. The moist and tender cupcakes are complemented by the surprise of a hidden Reese's in the center, adding a delightful burst of flavor. The peanut butter buttercream frosting provides a creamy and indulgent finish, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cupcakes. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a delightful indulgence for any occasion.
Enhance Your Reese’s Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Reese’s Cupcakes Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a decadent and indulgent treat, featuring rich cocoa powder, creamy peanut butter, and the iconic Reese's chocolate. The moist and tender texture of the cupcake, combined with the luscious peanut butter buttercream frosting, creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of sour cream ensures a delightful tang and moistness. The meticulous instructions and precise measurements ensure a foolproof baking experience, promising a delightful outcome. Trust the allure of Reese's and the expertise behind this recipe for a truly delightful dessert experience.
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