Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

Name: Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 2 eggs; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely love baking these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes! The rich peanut butter flavor complemented by chocolate chips creates an irresistible combination. Every time I make these, my kitchen fills with the delightful aroma that has my family eagerly waiting for a sweet treat. They are surprisingly easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to indulge a little, these cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:26:28.424Z

My journey with these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes began when I decided to experiment with two of my favorite ingredients. The outcome was beyond my expectations. I learned that balancing the sweetness of chocolate with the nuttiness of peanut butter creates a harmony that is simply delightful. Plus, the addition of a pinch of salt really enhances their flavor!

I always make sure to let the batter rest briefly before scooping it into the cupcake liners. This small step allows the flavors to meld together and results in a moist, delicious cupcake. Trust me, you won’t be able to eat just one!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Decadent chocolate chips melt in every bite
Creamy peanut butter frosting adds an irresistible touch
Perfectly fluffy cupcakes that are a hit with kids and adults alike

Perfecting Your Cupcake Texture

Achieving a perfectly fluffy cupcake is all about the creaming process. When creaming the softened butter with the sugars, make sure to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This aeration helps create a lighter texture, allowing your cupcakes to rise beautifully. Also, remember to add the eggs one at a time; this ensures they incorporate fully, preventing a dense texture.

Another important factor is to avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t worry if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes; aim for a smooth batter without overdoing it.

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes plays a crucial role. The peanut butter not only provides a distinct flavor but also contributes to the moistness of the cupcakes. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute creamy peanut butter with a natural nut butter, although this may slightly alter the texture. Just ensure any nut butter used is smooth and not too oily.

Using both granulated and brown sugars gives depth to your cupcakes. Granulated sugar helps achieve a nice rise, while brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor. For a refined taste, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a touch of espresso powder, which enhances the chocolate flavor.

Frosting Variations and Storage Tips

The creamy peanut butter frosting is what truly elevates these cupcakes. You can adjust its consistency by varying the amount of milk. For a thicker frosting, use less milk; for a spreadable frosting, add more. If you're looking to switch things up, consider blending in cocoa powder or even a hint of maple syrup for different flavor profiles. A pinch of salt can also enhance the overall taste.

To store your cupcakes, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to make them ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting to enjoy their full flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start baking:

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

For the Frosting

1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure everything is fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cupcakes:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add in the peanut butter and mix until well blended. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by mixing together the softened butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Frost the cooled cupcakes generously.

Enjoy your delicious creations!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding chopped peanuts on top of the frosting for an extra crunch.

Baking Tips for Success

To prevent your cupcakes from sticking, always line your muffin tin with paper liners. This not only makes for easy removal but also adds a nice touch for serving. If you don’t have liners, lightly greasing the pan with baking spray can work too—just be sure to let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before attempting to remove them.

When baking, keep an eye on your cupcakes around the 15-minute mark. Ovens can vary in temperature, so doing the toothpick test early can save you from over-baking them and ending up with dry cupcakes. Look for slightly golden edges and a springy top that bounces back when touched.

Serving Suggestions

These peanut butter chocolate chip cupcakes are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the presentation by topping them with crushed peanuts or chocolate shavings. For an extra indulgent treat, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the frosting or adding a dollop of whipped cream on top.

They make a perfect centerpiece for dessert tables at gatherings. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible combination that both kids and adults will love. I often serve them at birthday parties, where they are a guaranteed hit!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, just ensure it’s well-stirred and has a similar consistency to standard peanut butter.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just thaw and frost when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for each egg in the recipe.