Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes

If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly blends rich, creamy peanut butter with light, fluffy cake, look no further than Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes. These delightful treats capture an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that dance on your taste buds from the very first bite. Whether you’re a peanut butter enthusiast or just someone craving something truly special, these cupcakes will quickly become your favorite indulgence, with a creamy surprise tucked inside every single one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A deliciously creamy center: The peanut butter filling adds a luscious surprise, making each bite more exciting than the last.
• Perfectly balanced flavors: Sweet cupcake meets savory peanut butter, creating a harmonious taste combination.
• Simple ingredients, big impact: This recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create a gourmet-worthy dessert.
• Great for all occasions: Whether it’s a party, snack time, or a cozy night in, these cupcakes fit right in.
• Fun to personalize: You can tweak the recipe with your favorite chocolate, nuts, or toppings with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes is in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s to add moisture, provide a tender crumb, or create that irresistible peanut butter surprise in the center.

• All-purpose flour: The base for your cupcakes, giving them structure and the perfect crumb.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a lovely golden color as they bake.
• Butter: Contributes richness and moistness for a tender cupcake texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients while adding fluff and body to the cake.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents make the cupcakes rise beautifully.
• Milk or buttermilk: Keeps the cupcakes moist and adds a slight tanginess for depth.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm aroma.
• Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show that fills the cupcake with a dreamy, smooth center.
• Optional salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens the peanut butter taste.

Variations for Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes

Feeling adventurous? Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes are incredibly easy to customize. Whether you have specific dietary needs or just want to try a flavor twist, these variations can elevate your cupcakes to new delicious heights.

• Chocolate peanut butter: Add cocoa powder to the batter or top with chocolate ganache for a classic flavor pairing.
• Vegan version: Swap eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives for a cruelty-free treat.
• Crunchy surprise: Mix chopped peanuts into the filling for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Salted caramel twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over frosting for a sweet and salty combination.
• Gluten-free adaptation: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cupcakes accessible to all.

How to Make Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the batter

Start by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add your eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Alternate adding the dry mix and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients, and fold everything gently until fully combined.

Step 2: Fill the cupcake liners

Spoon the batter into your cupcake liners, filling each about halfway. This will create space for the peanut butter filling to be added later.

Step 3: Add the peanut butter filling

Dollop a generous spoonful of creamy peanut butter right into the center of each cupcake liner on top of the batter. You can either spoon the peanut butter directly or use a piping bag for cleaner placement.

Step 4: Cover the filling with more batter

Top the peanut butter with more cupcake batter until each liner is about two-thirds full. This traps the peanut butter inside so it melts into a molten center as they bake.

Step 5: Bake and cool

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted avoids the filling and comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to ensure the creamy surprise stays intact.

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes

• Use room temperature ingredients: This allows your batter to mix more smoothly and ensures even baking.
• Don’t overfill cupcake liners: Leaving room prevents spillover and helps the peanut butter stay enclosed.
• Choose creamy peanut butter: It melts best for that delightfully smooth filling.
• Cool fully before frosting: Warm cupcakes can cause frosting to melt or slide off.
• Experiment with fillings: Try mixing peanut butter with a touch of honey or chocolate for extra flavor.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a light drizzle of melted chocolate makes these cupcakes as pretty as they are tasty. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the richness of the peanut butter. Fresh berries also provide a sweet contrast and freshen the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these cupcakes in mini baskets with colorful liners for a party, or plate them with a fork for a fancy dessert experience. You can also stack mini cupcakes on a tiered stand for an eye-catching display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week to preserve the creamy filling.

Freezing

Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

To enjoy the creamy peanut butter center warm, reheat cupcakes for 10-15 seconds in the microwave, being careful not to overheat and dry out the cake.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for the filling?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may be a bit runnier than processed varieties. Chilling it for a few minutes before filling can help it stay in place better.

Are these cupcakes suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes are generally a hit with kids thanks to their sweet and creamy center. Just ensure no peanut allergies before serving.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend; just make sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum for proper texture.

Is it necessary to fill the cupcakes with peanut butter before baking?

Yes, filling before baking helps the peanut butter melt into a smooth, gooey center that defines these cupcakes. Filling afterward won’t have the same effect.

How long do Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes keep their freshness?

When stored properly in a sealed container, they stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes are a truly irresistible treat that combine simple ingredients with a decadent peanut butter core for an unforgettable dessert experience. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself coming back to the recipe again and again. So grab your mixing bowl and get baking – trust me, you’ll fall in love with every creamy bite!

Related Posts

• Delicious Apple Pie Rice Krispie Treats
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Muffins
• Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie

Print