Irresistible Reese’s Peanut Butter Cupcakes

Prepare to fall in love with the ultimate dessert mashup: Reese’s Cupcakes! Imagine the rich, decadent flavor of a chocolate cupcake perfectly paired with the creamy, dreamy taste of peanut butter frosting – all the magic of your favorite Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, but in delightful cupcake form. This recipe makes achieving that bakery-quality indulgence surprisingly simple, starting with a humble boxed cake mix and finishing with a luscious, homemade peanut butter buttercream. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these easy-to-make cupcakes are guaranteed to become your new go-to treat for any occasion, delivering pure chocolate and peanut butter bliss in every single bite.

The Ultimate Reese’s Cupcakes: A Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream

These Reese’s chocolate cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of the iconic chocolate and peanut butter duo. This recipe proves that you don’t need extensive baking experience or fancy equipment to create a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone. Our secret lies in smart shortcuts and a few simple tweaks that elevate convenience to gourmet status. By using a boxed cake mix as our foundation, we save time without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or texture. Instead of water, we incorporate whole milk, which imparts an unparalleled moistness and tender crumb to each chocolate cupcake, making them incredibly irresistible.

A Shortcut to Deliciousness: The Perfect Base

The beauty of this recipe starts with its simplicity. A high-quality chocolate cake mix serves as the perfect base, ensuring consistent results every time. But we don’t just follow the box instructions blindly. By replacing water with whole milk, we introduce extra fat and richness, transforming a standard cake mix into something truly special. The milk works to create a denser, more luxurious crumb that melts in your mouth, perfectly complementing the robust chocolate flavor. This simple swap is a game-changer, guaranteeing a cupcake base that’s moist, tender, and far from ordinary. Room temperature ingredients are also key here, ensuring everything combines smoothly for a uniform batter.

The Star: Velvety Peanut Butter Frosting

While the chocolate cupcake provides an excellent foundation, the real showstopper is the silky, homemade peanut butter buttercream. Crafted with just three essential ingredients, this frosting is both easy to make and bursting with authentic flavor. Using real creamy peanut butter ensures a rich, nutty taste and a wonderfully smooth, spreadable texture that’s simply divine. It’s the ideal counterpoint to the deep chocolate, creating that quintessential Reese’s experience. For an extra touch of wow factor and to truly embody the spirit of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, each cupcake is crowned with a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup, making them visually stunning and utterly irresistible from the moment they catch your eye until the very last delicious crumb.

Reese’s Cupcakes with Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting

These homemade Reese’s cupcakes capture the beloved candy flavor in a delightful dessert! Featuring moist chocolate cupcakes topped with an incredibly creamy peanut butter buttercream, they’re surprisingly easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Prep: 30 minutes

Cook: 20 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 12 cupcakes

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

• 13.25 ounces chocolate cake mix (1 box)
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs, room temperature

For the Frosting

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature (1 stick)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk, if needed
• ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter

Equipment

• Kitchen Scale (optional, for precise measurements)
• 12-count Cupcake Tin
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
• Piping Tip Set (optional, for decorative frosting)

Instructions

For the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 12-count cupcake tin with nonstick cooking spray or line with cupcake liners. Set the prepared tin aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, room-temperature milk, vegetable oil, and room-temperature eggs. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Fill each well of the prepared cupcake tin approximately ¾ of the way full with the batter. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
4. Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. It is crucial that the cupcakes cool completely to room temperature before applying frosting.

For the Frosting

1. Using either a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until it’s light, smooth, and creamy.
2. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the powdered sugar, a few tablespoons at a time, allowing each addition to incorporate before adding more. This prevents a cloud of sugar from forming!
3. Once all the powdered sugar has been added, increase the mixer speed to high and beat the frosting for another 2 minutes. This step is essential to make the icing light, airy, and wonderfully fluffy.
4. If the frosting appears too thick or crumbly, slowly add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating until the desired smooth, pipeable consistency is achieved.
5. Gently fold in the creamy peanut butter until it’s fully incorporated and the frosting is uniformly peanut buttery. Transfer the prepared frosting to a piping bag fitted with your chosen tip (a Wilton 2D or 1M star tip works beautifully for decorative swirls).
6. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously as desired. Garnish with mini Reese’s cups or chocolate sprinkles for extra flair. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes & Tips for Success

• Achieving Perfect Frosting Consistency: If your peanut butter frosting feels a bit too thick, you can easily thin it out by adding milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If, conversely, it’s too thin, add a tablespoon or two of extra powdered sugar.
• Troubleshooting Curdled Buttercream: If your buttercream unexpectedly looks curdled or separated, don’t panic! It’s likely too cold. Place the bowl of frosting over a pot of simmering water for just a minute or two (creating a double boiler effect) until the edges of the butter slightly begin to melt. Immediately remove from heat and whip again with your mixer until it becomes smooth and homogenous.
• Cool Completely: Always ensure your cupcakes are entirely cool before you even think about frosting them. Attempting to frost warm cupcakes will result in melted, messy frosting rather than beautiful, stable swirls.
• Garnish for Extra Indulgence: For the ultimate Reese’s experience, top each frosted cupcake with a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup. Chocolate sprinkles or a drizzle of melted chocolate are also fantastic additions.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Storage: Store any leftover Reese’s cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For optimal flavor and texture, I recommend bringing refrigerated cupcakes back to room temperature before serving.

Make-Ahead: You can certainly bake the chocolate cupcakes ahead of time. Once completely cooled, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before decorating with the freshly made peanut butter frosting. This makes them perfect for party preparation or when you need a quick dessert!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts

Reese’s Cupcakes Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 cupcake)

Calories 435
Calories from Fat 243

% Daily Value*

Fat 27g42%

Saturated Fat 9g56%

Trans Fat 0.4g

Polyunsaturated Fat 8g

Monounsaturated Fat 8g

Cholesterol 70mg23%

Sodium 317mg14%

Potassium 200mg6%

Carbohydrates 46g15%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 34g38%

Protein 6g12%

Vitamin A 344IU7%

Calcium 90mg9%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Author: Becky Hardin

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Crafting Your Reese’s Cupcakes: A Step-by-Step Guide with Expert Tips

Making these Reese’s Peanut Butter Cupcakes is an enjoyable process, and with these detailed steps and accompanying tips, you’ll achieve perfect results every time. Follow along to create these delectable treats that are sure to be a hit!

Step 1: Preparing the Rich Chocolate Cupcake Base

Begin by setting your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare your 12-count cupcake tin. You can either lightly grease each well with nonstick cooking spray for a rustic look or, for easier removal and cleaner presentation, line each well with paper cupcake liners. Ensuring your tin is ready before you mix helps maintain a smooth workflow.

In a generously sized mixing bowl, combine the entire contents of a 13.25-ounce box of chocolate cake mix. Next, carefully add 1 cup of whole milk (ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal blending), ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs, also at room temperature. The room temperature milk and eggs are crucial as they emulsify better with the oil, creating a smoother, more uniform batter that bakes evenly and results in a more tender cupcake. Mix all these ingredients together until the batter is just smooth and no dry streaks of cake mix remain. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher cupcake texture. A few small lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 2: Baking to Perfection

With your perfectly mixed batter ready, it’s time to fill the cupcake wells. Using an ice cream scoop or a spoon, fill each well about ¾ of the way full. This allows enough room for the cupcakes to rise beautifully without overflowing, preventing messy spills and ensuring an aesthetically pleasing dome on top. Once filled, transfer the cupcake tin to your preheated oven.

Bake the cupcakes for approximately 15 minutes. The exact baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s essential to keep an eye on them. To test for doneness, gently insert a toothpick into the center of one of the cupcakes. If it comes out clean with no wet batter attached, your cupcakes are ready! Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry cupcakes. As soon as they are done, remove the tin from the oven. Let the cupcakes rest in the tin for about 5 minutes; this brief cooling period helps them firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This step is non-negotiable – frosting warm cupcakes will result in a runny, melted mess.

Step 3: Whipping Up the Dreamy Peanut Butter Frosting

Now for the star of the show: the rich and creamy peanut butter frosting! In a clean mixing bowl, using either a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a reliable hand mixer, begin by creaming ½ cup of unsalted butter. Make sure your butter is at perfect room temperature – soft enough to easily indent with your finger but not melted. Beat the butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it transforms into a smooth, light, and creamy consistency. This step is vital for incorporating air, which contributes to a fluffy frosting.

Reduce your mixer speed to low. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, a few tablespoons at a time, allowing each portion to fully incorporate into the butter before adding the next. This prevents the sugar from flying out of the bowl and ensures a smooth mix. Once all the powdered sugar has been added, increase the mixer speed back to high and continue beating for another 2 minutes. This aggressive beating ensures the frosting becomes incredibly light and airy, achieving that perfect, pipeable texture.

During this stage, observe your frosting’s consistency. If it appears too thick, stiff, or crumbly, add 3 tablespoons of milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition until the frosting reaches your desired smooth, spreadable, and fluffy texture. If you accidentally add too much milk and it becomes too thin, simply add a bit more powdered sugar until it thickens up.

Step 4: Incorporating the Peanut Butter Magic

Once your icing is beautifully light and fluffy, it’s time to introduce the star flavor: peanut butter. Gently fold in ⅓ cup of creamy peanut butter. Use a spatula for this step to avoid deflating all the air you’ve just whipped into the frosting. Mix until the peanut butter is completely incorporated, and the frosting boasts a uniform color and irresistible peanut butter aroma. It’s important to use creamy, processed peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) rather than natural, oil-separated varieties, as the latter can alter the frosting’s texture and stability.

Now, prepare for piping! Transfer your luscious peanut butter icing into a piping bag. For best results, fit your piping bag with your favorite tip. A Wilton 2D or 1M star tip creates beautiful, classic swirls. If you don’t have piping tips, a sturdy Ziplock bag with one corner snipped off will work perfectly well for a simpler swirl or dollop. Remember the pro tip: placing the bag in a tall glass before filling makes this process much easier and cleaner.

Step 5: Decorating and Enjoying Your Masterpiece

With your cupcakes cooled and your frosting ready, it’s time for the grand finale! Carefully pipe the peanut butter frosting onto each chocolate cupcake in your desired design. You can go for classic swirls, elegant rosettes, or simple dollops – let your creativity shine! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if your first few aren’t exactly as you envisioned. They’ll still taste amazing!

For the ultimate Reese’s experience, crown each cupcake with a mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds an irresistible visual appeal. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate can also take these cupcakes to the next level. Once decorated, your magnificent Reese’s Cupcakes are ready to be savored. Share them with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself – we won’t tell!

Expert Tips for Flawless Reese’s Cupcakes

To ensure your Reese’s cupcakes turn out absolutely perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: For both the cupcakes and the frosting, using room temperature butter, milk, and eggs ensures that all ingredients blend smoothly and evenly. This creates a cohesive batter and a lump-free, fluffy frosting. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to be lumpy and the frosting to curdle.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you’ve added the wet ingredients to the dry cake mix, mix only until just combined and smooth. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to tough, dense cupcakes. A few small lumps in the batter are acceptable.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cupcakes towards the end of their baking time. Overbaking is the quickest way to dry out cupcakes. Test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re done.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to frosting. Warm cupcakes will melt your beautiful buttercream, causing it to slide off and create a sticky mess. Ensure your cupcakes are completely cool before piping on the frosting.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too stiff to pipe, add milk a teaspoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, gradually mix in more powdered sugar until it thickens up.
• Use Creamy Peanut Butter: For the frosting, stick to creamy, processed peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy). Natural peanut butter, which often separates into oil and solids, can make the frosting greasy and difficult to stabilize.
• Get Creative with Garnishes: While mini Reese’s cups are the classic choice, feel free to get creative! Chocolate sprinkles, a drizzle of melted chocolate, a few chopped peanuts, or even a tiny whole peanut butter cup on top can add extra charm and flavor.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic Reese’s cupcake is undeniably delicious, there’s always room to personalize! Here are some ideas to make these chocolate peanut butter delights uniquely yours:

• Different Cake Flavors: Not a fan of chocolate cake? Try a yellow cake mix for a lighter base that still pairs wonderfully with peanut butter, or even a dark chocolate fudge mix for an extra intense chocolate experience.
• Add Mini Chocolate Chips: Fold a ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the cupcake batter for an extra burst of chocolate in every bite.
• Peanut Butter Drizzle: After frosting, melt a tablespoon or two of creamy peanut butter in the microwave and drizzle it over the top of the cupcakes for an extra layer of peanut butter goodness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Similarly, a melted chocolate drizzle (dark, milk, or white chocolate) can add an elegant touch and another layer of flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: For some added texture, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top of the frosting.
• Peanut Butter Filling: For an ultimate indulgence, core out the center of each cooled cupcake and fill it with a small dollop of creamy peanut butter or even a mini peanut butter cup before frosting.
• Sprinkle Fun: Beyond mini Reese’s, add your favorite sprinkles – classic rainbow, chocolate jimmies, or themed sprinkles for holidays and parties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying these delightful Reese’s cupcakes:

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter for the frosting?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Natural peanut butter tends to be oilier and can cause the frosting to separate or become greasy. Creamy, processed peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) will yield the best results for a stable, smooth buttercream.

Q: Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The recipe should work just as well.

Q: How long do Reese’s cupcakes last?
A: When stored in an airtight container, these cupcakes will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For optimal taste and texture, bring refrigerated cupcakes back to room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the frosted cupcakes?
A: Yes, you can! Place the frosted cupcakes on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Q: What if my frosting is too soft?
A: If your frosting is too soft, it might be too warm. Try placing the mixing bowl in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, then beat it again until it firms up. Adding a little extra powdered sugar can also help thicken it.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Indulgence Awaits!

There you have it – the ultimate guide to creating unbelievably delicious Reese’s cupcakes. From the moist chocolate base enhanced with milk to the incredibly creamy homemade peanut butter frosting, every element of this recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual get-together, or simply to treat yourself, these cupcakes are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy even the most intense cravings for that classic chocolate and peanut butter combination. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of pure happiness. Enjoy every indulgent bite!