Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cupcakes: A Chocolatey, Nutty Delight

If you’re a fan of the iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, then these cupcakes will be a dream come true. These decadent chocolate cupcakes are filled with creamy peanut butter and topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting, finished with a mini Reese’s cup for the perfect touch. The combination of rich chocolate and salty-sweet peanut butter creates a heavenly bite every time.

These cupcakes are perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply indulging in a well-deserved treat. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a chocoholic, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious cupcakes:

For the Chocolate Cupcakes

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder	½ cup
Baking powder	1 tsp
Baking soda	½ tsp
Salt	¼ tsp
Granulated sugar	¾ cup
Brown sugar	¼ cup
Unsalted butter (melted)	½ cup
Eggs	2
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Buttermilk	½ cup
Hot water	½ cup
Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups	12 (for inside cupcakes)

For the Peanut Butter Frosting

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter (softened)	½ cup
Creamy peanut butter	¾ cup
Powdered sugar	2 cups
Heavy cream	2 tbsp
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Pinch of salt	–

For Garnish

Ingredient	Quantity
Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (halved)	6-8
Chocolate drizzle (optional)	–
Crushed peanuts (optional)	–

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk – Helps achieve a smooth batter and fluffy frosting.
• Cupcake liners and muffin tin – Ensures even baking and easy removal.
• Piping bag with a round or star tip – For frosting the cupcakes beautifully.
• Cooling rack – Allows the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, beat the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 4: Combine & Add Liquids

Slowly mix in half of the dry ingredients, followed by the buttermilk. Then add the remaining dry ingredients. Finally, stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Fill each cupcake liner about ⅔ full. Push a mini Reese’s cup into the center of each, making sure it’s submerged but not touching the bottom.

Step 6: Bake & Cool

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

Beat the butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost & Garnish

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe the peanut butter frosting onto each one. Garnish with a halved Reese’s cup on top, drizzle with melted chocolate, and sprinkle crushed peanuts if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Want extra peanut butter flavor? Try adding a spoonful of peanut butter to the batter.
• For a fudgier texture, substitute half of the butter with sour cream.
• Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Dairy-free option: Swap buttermilk for almond milk + 1 tsp vinegar, and use dairy-free butter.
• Love surprises? Add a peanut butter filling by cutting a hole in the baked cupcakes and piping in peanut butter before frosting.

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes look stunning when served on a cake stand or a decorative platter. For a more indulgent experience, serve with:

• A glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
• Warm caramel drizzle over the top for a gourmet touch.

For a fun party display, arrange the cupcakes in a circle with Reese’s candies scattered in the middle!

Pairings

• Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness complements the sweet peanut butter.
• Chocolate Milkshake: A double chocolate delight for dessert lovers.
• Peanut Butter Whiskey: For an adult twist, try pairing these with peanut butter-infused whiskey or a creamy liqueur like Baileys.

Storage and Reheating

Storing

• At room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before eating.
• Freeze: Wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For a fresh-baked taste, microwave a cupcake for 5-10 seconds to soften before eating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Cupcake)
Calories	~320
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	18g
Protein	5g
Sugar	28g
Allergens	Peanuts, Dairy, Gluten

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cupcakes are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. With their soft, moist texture and the surprise of a mini Reese’s cup inside, these cupcakes offer a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. The luscious peanut butter frosting, topped with even more Reese’s goodness, makes every bite an indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special occasion, or just to satisfy a craving, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress both kids and adults alike.

Baking these cupcakes is as enjoyable as eating them, with simple steps and a rewarding outcome. They can be customized with different toppings, fillings, or dietary adaptations, making them versatile for any preference. Try making a batch and share them with friends or family—because good desserts are meant to be enjoyed together! Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your creation online; we’d love to see how your cupcakes turn out! Happy baking!