Soft chocolate cupcakes with a hidden Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and topped with creamy peanut butter frosting make for an irresistible treat. The Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes recipes are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Their delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is sure to impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick steps, these cupcakes come together in no time.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These cupcakes are ideal for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Customizable Topping: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or additional mini Reese’s for an extra special touch.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids love the surprise inside and can help decorate them!
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending the frosting until creamy.
- Muffin tin: Ensures uniform cupcake size and perfect baking in each cup.
Ingredients
Soft chocolate cupcakes with a hidden Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and topped with creamy peanut butter frosting. These delightful cupcakes are easy to make and perfect for any gathering.
For the Cupcakes
- 1 box chocolate cake mix – any standard chocolate cake mix works great.
- 3 large eggs – adds richness and structure to the cupcakes.
- 1 cup milk – provides moisture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil – gives a tender texture.
- 2 heaping tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt – boosts moistness and adds a subtle tang.
- 20 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (plus extra for garnish) – the centerpiece of these cupcakes!
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup butter (room temperature) – the base of a creamy frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter – the star ingredient providing that signature flavor.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – sweetens and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances flavor.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk – adjust to reach the desired consistency.
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cupcakes Recipes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix the Cupcake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The chocolate cake mix,
2. Eggs,
3. Milk,
4. Vegetable oil,
5. Greek yogurt.
Use an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is well blended.
Step 4: Add Mini Reese’s Cups
Spoon a small amount of batter into each cupcake liner. Place a mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup in the center of each before covering it with more batter, filling each liner about two-thirds full.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely after baking.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
In another bowl, beat together:
1. Room temperature butter,
2. Creamy peanut butter,
3. Powdered sugar,
4. Vanilla extract,
5. Enough milk to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes
Once cooled, frost each cupcake generously with the peanut butter frosting, topping with extra mini Reese’s Cups if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes recipes!
How to Serve Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes Recipes
Serving these delightful cupcakes can be as fun and creative as making them. Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or a simple treat at home, here are some great ideas to elevate your presentation.
Creative Serving Suggestions
- Cupcake Stand: Arrange the cupcakes on a multi-tiered stand for a stunning display. This works great for parties and showcases the treats beautifully.
- Garnish with Extras: Add crushed peanuts or chocolate shavings on top of the frosting for extra texture and flavor.
- Individual Boxes: Package each cupcake in a small box tied with a ribbon. This makes for a wonderful take-home gift for guests.
- Ice Cream Pairing: Serve alongside vanilla or chocolate ice cream to create an indulgent dessert experience.
- Themed Decorations: Use themed decorations or cupcake toppers that match the occasion for visual appeal.
How to Perfect Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes Recipes
Perfecting your Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they come out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature. This helps them blend better and creates a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes rather than fluffy ones.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean when done. Avoid opening the oven too early!
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before adding frosting; this prevents melting and ensures neat application.
- Experiment with Frosting Consistency: Adjust the milk in your frosting to get your desired consistency—thicker for piping or thinner for spreading.
Best Side Dishes for Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes Recipes
Pairing side dishes with your Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some tasty options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Adds an elegant touch along with complementary flavors of chocolate and fruit.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing with rich flavors that contrasts nicely with the peanut butter.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Serve warm alongside as a dipping sauce to elevate each bite.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Offer a creamy option that pairs well with chocolate desserts without overwhelming them.
- Nutty Trail Mix: Add crunch and variety; consider using peanuts to tie in with the peanut butter theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the texture. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
- Not checking doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean.
- Ignoring cooling time: Frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt. Allow them to cool completely before decorating.
- Using stale ingredients: Expired baking powder or old cake mix can ruin your recipe. Always check expiration dates before starting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes Recipes
- Freeze un-frosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap before placing in a container.
Reheating Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes Recipes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cupcakes on a baking sheet, and warm for 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cupcakes for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Use a covered pan on low heat for a few minutes, ensuring they don’t burn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can substitute with sour cream or even unsweetened applesauce for a similar texture and moisture level.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and follow the rest of the recipe as directed.
How do I store leftover Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes Recipes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I use other types of nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter works well if you’re looking for different flavors.
How do I make mini versions of these cupcakes?
Use a mini muffin tin and reduce baking time, typically around 12-15 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different frostings or add toppings like chopped nuts or sprinkles. Try this delightful recipe at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cupcakes
Indulge in the delightful decadence of these Reese’s peanut butter cup cupcakes, a perfect blend of rich chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter frosting. Bursting with flavor, each cupcake features a hidden mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for an added surprise. These treats are not just ideal for birthdays and special occasions; they’re also great for everyday enjoyment. Simple to prepare and customizable to your taste, these cupcakes will surely impress friends and family alike.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 heaping tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 20 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup room temperature butter
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt. Use an electric mixer until well blended.
- Fill each cupcake liner with a small amount of batter, then place one mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup in the center before covering it with more batter.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling completely.
- For the frosting, beat together room temperature butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve desired consistency.
- Frost cooled cupcakes generously and top with additional mini Reese’s Cups if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg