Looking for a sweet treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with creamy peanut butter? Follow this easy recipe to make delicious chocolate cupcakes paired with smooth peanut butter icing. Perfect for any occasion!
#### Ingredients
**For the Cupcakes:**
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Peanut Butter Icing:**
- 8 oz creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
#### Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Cupcake liners and muffin tin
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
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### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In one bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In another large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1 minute or until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
#### Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
1. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with milk in two parts, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
2. **Fill Muffin Tin:** Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
#### Step 3: Bake
1. **Bake Until Done:** Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
2. **Cool Completely:** Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
#### Step 4: Prepare Peanut Butter Icing
1. **Mix Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
2. **Adjust Consistency:** If you prefer a thicker icing, add more powdered sugar. For a smoother texture, use a fork or whisk to blend.
#### Step 5: Assemble
1. **Frosting Application:** Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use an offset spatula to apply the peanut butter frosting generously over each cupcake.
2. **Optional Garnish:** You can garnish with extra peanuts, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added appeal.
### Tips and Variations
- For a richer flavor in your cupcakes, use dark cocoa powder.
- To make vegan-friendly cupcakes, replace the butter with coconut oil and the eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon ground seed per egg).
- Experiment with adding a bit of espresso powder to the cupcake batter for a more intense chocolate taste.
Enjoy your homemade chocolate cupcakes topped with creamy peanut butter icing. Perfect for any special occasion or just because you feel like treating yourself!
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This comprehensive guide ensures that you can easily create these delightful treats at home, using SEO-friendly formatting and clear instructions. Happy baking!