Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate and luscious peanut butter, then you have to try this Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes are the ultimate indulgence, featuring moist, chocolatey cake with a surprise oozy peanut butter filling and topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting. They strike the perfect harmony between decadent and comforting, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, these cupcakes will quickly become your new favorite sweet snack to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these irresistibly gooey chocolate peanut butter cupcakes, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients, which each play a key role in building that perfect flavor and texture. From the rich cocoa powder that deepens the chocolate taste to the creamy peanut butter that adds luscious richness, every component matters.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for light yet moist cupcakes.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cupcakes their deep chocolate flavor and dark color.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help your cupcakes rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances all the sweet and savory flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, velvety texture to both the cupcake and frosting.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly without overpowering the chocolate or peanut butter.
• Large eggs: Bind the batter, contributing to a tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Brings out the depth in both the chocolate and peanut butter.
• Whole milk: Creates a moist batter and smooth frosting texture.
• Boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor and softens the batter for a delicate crumb.
• Creamy peanut butter: Used in both the filling and frosting for that signature peanut buttery punch.
• Powdered sugar: Ensures a smooth and fluffy frosting.

How to Make Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Cupcake Liners

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with your favorite cupcake liners. Getting this set up early means everything else flows smoothly once the batter is ready.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and cocoa, which is key for a perfectly risen cupcake with rich chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar, Then Add Eggs and Vanilla

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—it should look pale and airy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each to incorporate air, then mix in the vanilla extract for that lovely fragrant hint.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately With Milk

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with whole milk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Be gentle and mix just until combined—overmixing can make cupcakes tough. The batter will be thick but smooth.

Step 5: Stir in Boiling Water

Slowly incorporate boiling water into the batter; the mixture will thin out. This step blooms the cocoa, making your cupcakes intensely chocolatey and moist.

Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners and Bake

Divide batter evenly among the liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Peanut Butter Filling

Mix together creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and spreadable. This dreamy filling is what makes these cupcakes so irresistibly gooey inside.

Step 8: Core and Fill the Cupcakes

Once cooled, carefully remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake using a knife or cupcake corer. Fill each cavity with the peanut butter mixture, gently smoothing the top to seal the delightful surprise inside.

Step 9: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

Beat together softened butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, and keep beating until fluffy and creamy—perfect for piping or spreading.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Pipe or spread your luscious peanut butter frosting atop each filled cupcake, then step back and admire your masterpiece. These cupcakes are now ready to wow your taste buds and your guests.

How to Serve Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch, sprinkle crushed peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the frosting. Each addition adds texture and flavor layers that make every bite even more exciting.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a cold glass of milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to balance their richness. For a more decadent pairing, try serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Surprise your guests by placing the cupcakes in colorful liners or decorating them with edible gold dust for a touch of elegance. You can also serve them on a tiered cake stand for a stunning display at parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Beyond that, refrigeration is best to maintain freshness, especially because of the peanut butter frosting.

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes either before or after frosting. If freezing unfrosted cupcakes, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. For frosted cupcakes, flash freeze on a tray first, then wrap and store to preserve the frosting.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen cupcakes at their best, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving. If you prefer them warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds but avoid overheating to preserve the gooey filling and creamy frosting.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter tends to be less smooth and more oily, which can affect the texture of the filling and frosting. For the best gooey consistency, creamy peanut butter is recommended, but natural peanut butter can work if thoroughly stirred.

Is it necessary to use boiling water in the batter?

Yes, boiling water helps to intensify the cocoa powder, yielding deeper chocolate flavor and a tender crumb. It’s an essential step for that luscious moistness in these cupcakes.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum, but keep in mind the texture might slightly differ. It’s best to use a trusted gluten-free flour mix designed for baking.

How do I prevent the peanut butter filling from leaking out?

Remove just enough cupcake center to create a small well, and don’t overfill the cavity. Gently pressing a little cake around the peanut butter can help seal it in place before frosting.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! While the peanut butter frosting complements these cupcakes best, you could try a classic chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting for a delicious twist.

Final Thoughts

Once you experience the magic of this Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe, you’ll have a new favorite to add to your baking rotation. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in every bite is pure joy, and the recipe is straightforward enough to make anytime you need a special treat. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and prepare to wow everyone with these irresistibly gooey delights!

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