Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

Is there a more iconic duo than chocolate and peanut butter? I don’t think so! These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes are the ultimate treat—moist, rich chocolate cupcakes topped with a creamy, dreamy peanut butter frosting. Every bite is a perfect balance of deep cocoa flavor and nutty sweetness.

Trust me, if you love Reese’s, you’re going to be obsessed with these cupcakes. They’re easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to impress. So grab your mixing bowl—let’s bake something amazing!

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

Rich & Indulgent

These cupcakes are deeply chocolatey, with a fudgy texture that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter frosting.

Perfectly Balanced

The sweetness of the peanut butter frosting complements the richness of the chocolate without overpowering it.

Easy to Make

No complicated techniques—just a simple batter and an ultra-creamy frosting that comes together in minutes.

Great for Any Occasion

Birthdays, parties, bake sales, or just a sweet treat for yourself—these cupcakes fit any celebration.

Customizable

Make them extra special with peanut butter cups, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.

Ingredients in Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes:

All-Purpose Flour

Gives the cupcakes structure while keeping them soft and fluffy.

Cocoa Powder

The key to that deep, rich chocolate flavor. Use high-quality cocoa for the best results.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda

These help the cupcakes rise beautifully.

Salt

Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.

Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar

A mix of both adds sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes.

Eggs

Bind everything together and create a tender crumb.

Milk

Keeps the cupcakes soft and moist.

Vegetable Oil

Adds richness and ensures a perfectly moist texture.

Vanilla Extract

A must-have for enhancing all the flavors.

Hot Coffee

Brings out the depth of the chocolate without making the cupcakes taste like coffee.

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

Creamy Peanut Butter

The star of the show—smooth and packed with flavor.

Unsalted Butter

Makes the frosting rich and creamy.

Powdered Sugar

Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and fluffy.

Vanilla Extract

Adds a warm, aromatic touch.

Milk or Heavy Cream

Adjusts the consistency to make the frosting silky smooth.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the sugars, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until well combined.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add the Hot Coffee

Slowly stir in the hot coffee—it will make the batter thinner, but that’s exactly what creates a moist, tender cupcake.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill the cupcake liners about ⅔ full and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting

Beat together the peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, mixing until light and fluffy.

Frost the Cupcakes

Use a piping bag or a spoon to swirl the peanut butter frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.

Optional Garnishes

Top with mini peanut butter cups, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

• With a Glass of Milk: Classic and comforting.
• As a Dessert Bar Addition: These cupcakes shine on a dessert table.
• With a Drizzle of Chocolate: Elevate them with melted chocolate or caramel.
• Topped with Extra Peanut Butter Cups: Because more peanut butter is always a good idea!

Additional Tips

Use High-Quality Cocoa

A good cocoa powder makes all the difference in deepening the chocolate flavor.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Mix just until combined to keep the cupcakes light and tender.

Let Cupcakes Cool Completely

Frosting warm cupcakes will cause the frosting to melt—patience is key!

Make Ahead & Freeze

You can bake the cupcakes ahead of time and freeze them unfrosted for up to 2 months. Just thaw and frost when ready to serve.

Adjust the Frosting Consistency

If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

FAQ Section

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! Just use a good 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

It’s best to use regular creamy peanut butter, as natural peanut butter can make the frosting too oily.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I freeze the frosting?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let it thaw and re-whip before using.

What’s the best way to frost these?

A piping bag makes a beautiful swirl, but you can also spread the frosting with a knife for a rustic look.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Fold in mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolate boost.

Can I make this as a cake instead?

Yes! Just pour the batter into an 8-inch cake pan and adjust the baking time to about 30-35 minutes.

What’s the best way to make the frosting extra fluffy?

Beat the frosting for a few extra minutes to incorporate more air and create a light, whipped texture.

Can I use a different frosting?

Of course! Chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting would also be delicious.

Do I need to refrigerate these cupcakes?

If it’s warm where you live, the frosting may soften too much at room temperature. In that case, refrigerate and let them come to room temp before serving.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes that are rich, indulgent, and downright irresistible! Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out!

Print