Peanut Butter Cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a moist and tender cupcake base. Topped with a luscious peanut butter buttercream and a drizzle of chocolate ganache, these cupcakes are a peanut lover’s dream come true. They make for a scrumptious dessert for any occasion, from birthday parties to afternoon tea gatherings.

The love for peanut butter dates back to the late 1800s when it was first introduced as a nutritious protein source. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that peanut butter’s popularity soared, largely due to the efforts of George Washington Carver, who promoted the cultivation of peanuts and developed innovative uses for them.

As peanut butter gained popularity, it became a popular ingredient in various desserts, including cupcakes. The combination of peanut butter’s creamy texture and distinctive taste with the sweetness of cupcakes proved to be a match made in dessert heaven.

Over the years, creative bakers experimented with different variations of peanut butter cupcakes, incorporating various frosting and garnishing options. The classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate also found its way into these cupcakes, creating a mouthwatering blend of flavors.

Today, peanut butter cupcakes are a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages, and they continue to be a delightful addition to any dessert table or a simple indulgence for peanut enthusiasts.

INGREDIENTS

Cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup chunky or smooth peanut butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1/2 cup milk

Ganache:

• 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee granules
• 2 ounces heavy cream

Peanut Butter Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (2 sticks)
• 1 cup powdered sugar, or more, to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup peanut butter, at room temperature

INSTRUCTIONS

Cupcakes:

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line 12 muffin tin cups with paper cupcake liners.
2. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
3. Using a stand mixer, beat the butter, peanut butter, and brown sugar on medium speed until smooth and light in color, about 1 minute.
4. Mix in the egg. Add the vanilla and beat for 1 minute, or until the batter is smooth. On low speed, add the flour mixture in 3 additions and the milk in 2 additions, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until the flour is incorporated and the batter looks smooth.
5. Fill each paper liner with batter, about 1/3 inch below the top of the liner. Bake just until the tops feel firm and are lightly browned, about 20 minutes. There will be a few cracks on top. Cool the cupcakes for 10 minutes in the pan on a wire rack. Carefully remove cupcakes from the pan to finish cooling.

Ganache:

1. Place the chocolate and coffee granules in a heatproof bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it comes to a boil.
2. Pour the hot cream into the bowl with the chocolate and stir until completely mixed and glossy.

Peanut Butter Buttercream:

1. Beat everything in a bowl until smooth and blended.
2. Add in more powdered sugar if needed, according to your preference.

Assembly:

1. Spread a layer of chocolate ganache on top of each cupcake and then frost with the peanut butter buttercream.
2. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and chocolate sprinkles as a delightful garnish.

These Peanut Butter Cupcakes are now ready to be savored and shared with loved ones. With the perfect blend of peanut butter and chocolate, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself!