If you’re a fan of rich, chocolatey desserts with a peanut butter twist, then these Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes are for you! These cupcakes are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of creamy peanut butter and indulgent chocolate. Each bite is a perfect balance of fluffy cake, gooey chocolate, and a surprise peanut butter filling that will leave you craving more.

These cupcakes are not your average dessert – they’re packed with flavor and have a melt-in-your-mouth gooey center, thanks to the decadent peanut butter filling. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion, a family get-together, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cupcakes are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. The rich chocolate cake pairs perfectly with the smooth, creamy peanut butter, creating an irresistible combination. Top them with a luscious chocolate ganache, and you’ve got a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike, these gooey cupcakes will be the star of any dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Irresistible Peanut Butter Center

The gooey peanut butter filling in the center of each cupcake is the star of the show, giving you that perfect creamy, sweet and salty bite in every mouthful.

2. Rich and Decadent Flavor

The chocolate cake is moist and flavorful, while the peanut butter center adds a luscious, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the cake.

3. Easy to Make

Despite how impressive they look, these cupcakes are simple to prepare, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced bakers.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or casual afternoon treat, these cupcakes are versatile enough for any occasion and will impress your guests.

5. Customizable Frosting

While the chocolate ganache frosting is amazing, you can easily switch it up with peanut butter frosting or a swirl of both for a unique twist!

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Butter (softened)
Sugar
Eggs
Milk
Vanilla extract
Peanut butter (creamy)
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream
Semi-sweet chocolate (for ganache)

Variations

Peanut Butter Frosting: If you’re a huge fan of peanut butter, you can replace the chocolate ganache with a rich peanut butter frosting for an extra layer of peanut buttery goodness.
Chocolate Ganache Swirl: For an extra chocolatey kick, swirl in some chocolate ganache with the peanut butter filling for added flavor and a beautiful design.
Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or crushed peanut butter cups on top of the frosting for an extra crunch and more peanut flavor.
Mini Cupcakes: Make mini versions of these cupcakes for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or gifting.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cupcake Pan

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

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until the batter is smooth.

Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. You may need to adjust the ratio to get a thick, but spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Cupcakes

Spoon a small amount of cake batter into each cupcake liner, filling them about halfway. Next, place a teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture in the center of each cupcake. Top with more cake batter, filling the liners about three-quarters full. The peanut butter should be surrounded by cake batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (except for the gooey peanut butter center). Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

While the cupcakes are cooling, make the chocolate ganache by heating the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.

Step 8: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, dip or drizzle the ganache over each cupcake, allowing it to coat the top with a beautiful glossy finish.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve

For added decoration, you can sprinkle crushed peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or even more peanut butter drizzle on top. Let the ganache set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Peanut Butter Filling: If the peanut butter filling is too soft to work with, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to help firm it up.
Don’t Overfill the Cupcake Liners: Leave room for the batter to rise while baking. Fill the liners only about three-quarters full.
Check Doneness Carefully: Because of the gooey peanut butter center, the cupcakes may look a little underdone at first glance. Test them with a toothpick, but remember the center might still be a bit soft due to the filling.
Let the Cupcakes Cool Completely: Before frosting, ensure the cupcakes have completely cooled to prevent the ganache from melting.

How to Serve

These Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes are best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. They make an excellent dessert for parties, barbecues, birthdays, or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. Serve them alongside a glass of milk for an indulgent experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are still delicious on the second and third day!

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes if you’d like to prepare them in advance. Freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw and then frost with ganache.

Reheating

If you prefer warm cupcakes, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This will melt the gooey peanut butter filling slightly and make them extra indulgent.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the cupcakes and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Frost them when ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for the ganache, depending on your preference.

3. Can I substitute the peanut butter with almond butter?

Yes, almond butter or cashew butter can be used in place of peanut butter, though the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

4. Can I add nuts to the cupcakes?

Yes, you can add chopped peanuts to the batter or sprinkle them on top of the ganache for added texture and flavor.

5. How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

To make these cupcakes gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

6. Can I make these cupcakes with a box cake mix?

Yes, you can use a box cake mix to make the chocolate cupcakes if you’re short on time. Just follow the instructions on the box and add the peanut butter filling as directed.

7. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of texture to the filling, but it still works well in this recipe.

8. How can I make the frosting more peanut buttery?

For a more intense peanut butter flavor, try making peanut butter frosting instead of chocolate ganache. Just beat together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and butter for a creamy, spreadable frosting.

9. Can I decorate the cupcakes with sprinkles?

Absolutely! Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed peanut butter cups make a fun and festive topping for these cupcakes.

10. Can I serve these cupcakes cold?

Yes, these cupcakes are just as delicious when chilled. The peanut butter filling becomes firmer, and the ganache holds its glossy texture.

Conclusion

Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes are the perfect indulgence for anyone who loves the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter. With a rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and decadent chocolate ganache, these cupcakes are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, they’re sure to impress. Simple to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying, these cupcakes are a must-try for dessert lovers!