Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting

There’s something magical about the combination of dark chocolate and peanut butter that makes it irresistible. These Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a feast for the eyes too! Rich, moist, and topped with a creamy, dreamy peanut butter frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes will steal the show. Let’s dive into the reasons you’ll want to make these beauties!

Top Reasons to Make Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting

• Decadent Flavor: The rich bitterness of dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy peanut butter, creating a flavor explosion.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires no fancy techniques, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cupcakes are sure to impress friends and family, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to include your favorite mix-ins or toppings.
• Perfect Texture: The combination of sour cream and butter ensures a moist cupcake that melts in your mouth.

Ingredient Checklist

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces
• 2 ounces (56.7g) bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
• ½ cup (43g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• ½ cup (93.75g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon table salt
• ½ cup (115ml) sour cream
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1 cup (258g) creamy peanut butter
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ⅓ cup (79.33ml) heavy cream

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Whisk – to ensure a smooth batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts.
• Muffin tin – to bake your cupcakes.
• Piping bag – for easy frosting application.
• Cooling rack – to let your cupcakes cool down properly.

Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting Cooking Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the 2 ounces of finely chopped bittersweet chocolate. Stir gently until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and table salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate mixture, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each liner about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cupcakes

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a large bowl, beat together the room temperature butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Pour in the heavy cream and add the vanilla extract and kosher salt, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag or a spatula to generously frost each cupcake with the creamy peanut butter frosting.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Your Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting are ready to be devoured! Serve them at room temperature and watch them disappear.

If You’re Out Of…

• Bittersweet Chocolate: You can substitute with semisweet chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt works as a great alternative.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used for a more natural sweetener.

Notes on Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in your recipe.
• Bittersweet Chocolate: Look for high-quality chocolate to enhance the flavor of your cupcakes.
• Sour Cream: This ingredient adds moisture and a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness.
• Peanut Butter: Choose a creamy variety for a smooth frosting; natural peanut butter works well too!

Shelf Life & Storage

These Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Ask the Chef

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the best texture.

How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What’s the best way to frost the cupcakes?

Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip gives you a beautiful swirl effect, but you can also use a simple spatula for a more rustic look.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes! You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Frost them after thawing for the best results.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
• Easy Vegan Chocolate Cake
• Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie

Wrap-Up

These Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter into a decadent dessert. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. So gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and indulge in this sweet creation. Remember, baking is all about having fun, so don’t hesitate to make these cupcakes your own! Enjoy baking and even more, enjoy eating these delicious cupcakes.