I am a huge sucker for peanut butter. I’m not 100% sure what I would do if I couldn’t have peanut butter in my life. As much as I love peanut butter, I had never actually had peanut butter cake or cupcakes before.

Crazy, right?!?

Usually I’m just adding peanut butter to everything else… apples, smoothies, muffins, eating it straight from the jar, ya know… whatever. But now I have one more thing to add peanut butter too when I’m having a peanut butter craving… peanut butter cupcakes!

Anyway, these peanut butter cupcakes are everything I could ever ask for in a cupcake. Light and fluffy with the prefect balance of peanut butter. And then that peanut butter buttercream frosting… ah, I die! So delish.

This recipe easily makes 24 cupcakes, but you can 1/2 the recipe and only make 12 if you prefer. Or your waistline prefers because you will not be able to stop eating these.

What are Peanut Butter Cupcakes?

Peanut butter cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic cupcake, infusing the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter into a moist and tender cake. Originating from the American love affair with peanut butter, these cupcakes have become a favorite for their unique taste and satisfying texture. The combination of peanut butter and brown sugar creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The creamy peanut butter and brown sugar blend perfectly to create a rich, nutty flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Moist Texture: The addition of vegetable oil and milk ensures that these cupcakes are incredibly moist and tender, melting in your mouth with every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile: These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual get-togethers, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of frostings and toppings.

Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter: Softened to create a creamy, rich base for both the cupcakes and the frosting.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the peanut butter.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: The star ingredient, providing a smooth, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
• Large Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and adding moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps to create a smooth batter.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cupcakes.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Powdered Sugar: Used in the frosting to create a light, fluffy texture.

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Substitutions & Additions

• Butter: You can substitute unsalted butter with salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe.
• Milk: For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or soy milk.
• Peanut Butter: If you prefer a different nut butter, almond or cashew butter can be used as a substitute.

How to Make this Recipe

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cupcake/muffin tins with cupcake liners.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer, or using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the vegetable oil and milk, mixing until smooth.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Fill Cupcake Tins: Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake tins, filling each liner about two-thirds full.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Cool: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Frosting Instructions

Beat Butter and Peanut Butter: Using electric beaters or a stand mixer, beat together the butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

Add Powdered Sugar: With the mixer on low, add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated and the frosting is light and fluffy.

Frost Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the peanut butter frosting.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend more easily and evenly.

Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing the batter can result in dense cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Use an Ice Cream Scoop: For even-sized cupcakes, use an ice cream scoop to portion the batter into the cupcake liners.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishes: Top your cupcakes with chopped peanuts, a drizzle of chocolate, or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Pairings: These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Suggestions

Room Temperature: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Freezing: You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature and frost before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Make sure to stir the natural peanut butter well before using.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How can I make the frosting less sweet? Reduce the amount of powdered sugar and add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter? Absolutely! Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips after mixing the batter for a delicious twist.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer? You can use a hand mixer or mix by hand, but it may take a bit more effort to achieve the same creamy consistency.

These peanut butter cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a moist, tender texture. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Happy baking!