Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe

These Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes are a decadent dessert combining the rich, smooth flavor of chocolate with the creamy, nutty taste of peanut butter. The gooey center creates a surprise in every bite, making these cupcakes the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers!

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Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake recipe)
• 1 cup water (or the amount specified on the cake mix box)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (optional, for balance)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

• Mini peanut butter cups (for decoration)
• Optional: extra melted chocolate for drizzling

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, typically combining the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
4. Bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

1. In a medium bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if using) until smooth and creamy.
2. Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out a small portion of the center of each cooled cupcake to create space for the peanut butter filling. Be careful not to go all the way to the bottom.
3. Fill the center of each cupcake with about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter filling, pressing it down slightly to fill the hole.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more cream or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes have cooled and have been filled with the peanut butter mixture, spread or pipe the chocolate frosting over the top of each cupcake.
2. For a fun garnish, place a mini peanut butter cup on top of each frosted cupcake.

Step 5: Optional Garnish

1. For an extra chocolate touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the frosted cupcakes.
2. Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes before serving.

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Tips for the Best Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

• Peanut butter filling: For a gooey center, ensure the peanut butter filling is soft and smooth. If you want it even creamier, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the filling.
• Frosting consistency: Adjust the consistency of the chocolate frosting by adding more powdered sugar if it's too thin or more cream if it's too thick.
• Flavor variation: You can also add a bit of coffee to the frosting for a deeper chocolate flavor.

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Storage

• Room temperature: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: If you prefer, refrigerate the cupcakes for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: Freeze un-frosted cupcakes for up to 1 month. Frost after thawing and serving.

Enjoy your Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes – a delightful combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and a gooey surprise center that will leave everyone wanting more! 🍫🥜🍰