If you’re looking for a dessert that blends the sweetness of honey with the fruity freshness of peaches, these Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are sure to hit the spot. These cupcakes are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With a rich cream cheese base, a burst of juicy peaches, and a hint of honey, they’re soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor.
What truly sets these cupcakes apart is the cream cheese frosting that tops them off. The frosting adds a creamy sweetness that complements the peaches perfectly. Together, the cupcakes and frosting create an irresistible combination that’s sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Perfect Balance of Sweetness
The honey and peaches come together beautifully to create a sweet, yet slightly tart flavor. The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect creamy finish.
2. Soft and Fluffy Texture
The combination of butter, cream cheese, and milk results in cupcakes that are tender, light, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
3. Fruity and Fresh
Fresh diced peaches give the cupcakes a juicy, fruity burst in every bite, making them perfect for summer or any time you want a fresh flavor.
4. Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cupcakes are easy to make, even for beginner bakers. No complicated techniques required!
5. Cream Cheese Frosting
The homemade cream cheese frosting adds an indulgent and creamy touch that elevates these cupcakes and makes them extra special.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- All-purpose Flour
- Baking Powder
- Salt
- Butter
- Cream Cheese
- Granulated Sugar
- Honey
- Eggs
- Vanilla Extract
- Fresh Peaches (diced)
- Milk
For the Frosting:
- Powdered Sugar
- Cream Cheese
- Butter
Variations
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cupcake batter for a warm, spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the peaches.
- Peach Preserves: If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use peach preserves or jam in the batter for a similar fruity flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist that balances the sweetness of the honey and peaches.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cupcakes gluten-free.
- Whipped Cream Topping: If you prefer a lighter topping, replace the cream cheese frosting with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease the wells.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Add the Peaches
Fold in the diced peaches, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
While the cupcakes are cooling, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 9: Frost and Serve
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting. You can use a piping bag for a decorative touch or simply spread it on with a knife.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in dense cupcakes. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Peach Prep: Make sure the diced peaches are dry before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture in the cupcakes.
- Chill the Frosting: If your frosting is too soft to pipe, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before using it.
- Decorate with Fresh Fruit: For an extra burst of peach flavor, top the frosted cupcakes with a small slice of fresh peach.
How to Serve
- Serve at Room Temperature: These cupcakes are best enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate their flavor and texture.
- Add Extra Toppings: Garnish with extra peach slices, a drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve these cupcakes with a cup of tea or a refreshing iced drink for a delightful afternoon treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers with frosting, it’s best to store them in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh.
Freezing
These cupcakes freeze beautifully! Freeze them without the frosting for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
Reheating
To reheat, place a cupcake in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but make sure to drain them well before adding them to the batter.
2. Can I make these cupcakes without the frosting?
Absolutely! These cupcakes are delicious on their own, but the cream cheese frosting adds a special touch.
3. How do I know when the cupcakes are done?
Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cupcakes are ready.
4. Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
5. How long will these cupcakes last?
These cupcakes will last for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
6. Can I make these cupcakes in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance and frost them when you’re ready to serve.
7. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, the cream cheese frosting can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before using.
8. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, but honey provides a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with peaches.
9. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream, buttercream, or a dairy-free alternative.
10. How do I store leftover cupcakes with frosting?
Store leftover frosted cupcakes in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh.
Conclusion
These Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of honey, the freshness of peaches, and the richness of cream cheese into a cupcake that’s irresistible. With their light, fluffy texture and sweet, creamy frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion and sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether served for a special event or just as an everyday indulgence, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
PrintHoney Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes: A Sweet and Fruity Delight
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes (including cooling time)
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of honey, the tang of cream cheese, and the juicy burst of fresh peaches. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for summer celebrations or any time you want a refreshing, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
- For the cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh peaches, diced (about 1 medium peach)
- 1/4 cup milk
- For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the cupcake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and honey, and beat until well combined.
- 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 mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced peaches.
- Fill the cupcake liners: Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake the cupcakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost the cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag.
- Serve: Enjoy these honey peach cream cheese cupcakes with a cup of tea or as a refreshing dessert for any occasion!
Notes
- If fresh peaches are not available, you can substitute with canned or frozen peaches, but be sure to drain and pat them dry before using.
- For extra flavor, try adding a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the cupcake batter.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cupcakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American