Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes

Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes bring together the comforting taste of ripe bananas and the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter in a moist, fluffy cupcake. Finished with a smooth and creamy peanut butter frosting, these cupcakes offer a delightful balance of sweetness and savoriness, making them perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and tender cupcakes thanks to ripe bananas and oil
• Rich peanut butter flavor in both the cake and the frosting
• Simple, accessible ingredients and easy-to-follow steps
• Great for celebrations, parties, or a sweet afternoon treat
• Easily customizable with mix-ins or alternative toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cupcakes:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Vegetable oil
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk
• Ripe bananas, mashed

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Creamy peanut butter
• Powdered sugar
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or cream

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate large bowl, whisk the oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add eggs and vanilla, then mix in the buttermilk.
4. Fold in the mashed bananas. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
6. Bake for 16 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat the softened butter until smooth, then add the peanut butter and mix until combined.
9. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla. Add milk or cream a little at a time until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
10. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag or a knife.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 12 cupcakes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 16–20 minutes
• Cooling and Frosting Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the batter.
• Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Frosting Alternative: Use chocolate or cream cheese frosting instead of peanut butter.
• Mini Cupcakes: Make smaller cupcakes and reduce the baking time to 10–12 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store unfrosted cupcakes at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Frosted cupcakes should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating frosted cupcakes in the microwave to maintain the frosting’s texture.

FAQs

How ripe should bananas be for this recipe?

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots. They are sweeter and easier to mash, giving the cupcakes their signature moisture and flavor.

Can I use natural peanut butter in the frosting?

It’s best to use regular creamy peanut butter, as natural peanut butter can separate and affect the texture of the frosting.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend made for baking. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk and let sit for 5–10 minutes as a buttermilk substitute.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Reduce the amount of powdered sugar and add a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.

Can I add other flavors to the batter?

Yes, try adding nutmeg, allspice, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for variety.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready.

Can I make this into a cake instead?

Yes, pour the batter into a greased cake pan and adjust the baking time accordingly. Check doneness with a toothpick.

What kind of piping tip should I use?

A large star tip, such as a 1M, is perfect for creating a classic swirl of frosting on top.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes are a delightful blend of classic flavors with a modern twist. Moist, flavorful, and topped with rich frosting, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as-is or with a creative spin, these cupcakes are sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

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