Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires just a few pantry staples, making it easy to prepare.
- Versatile: Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, brownies, and more.
- Customizable: Easily adjust sweetness and consistency to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Dash of milk or heavy cream, if needed for consistency
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Beat the Butters: In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture for about 1 minute until it becomes light, whipped, and fluffy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat on low speed for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting appears too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream. Continue beating until the frosting becomes smooth and creamy.
- Apply the Frosting: Spread or pipe the peanut butter frosting onto your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or brownies as desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields enough frosting to cover 12-15 cupcakes or a standard 9-inch cake.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting: Add ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder along with the powdered sugar for a chocolatey twist.
- Maple Peanut Butter Frosting: Substitute some of the powdered sugar with pure maple syrup to infuse a delightful maple flavor.
- Spiced Peanut Butter Frosting: Incorporate a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced note.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Reheating: Before using refrigerated frosting, allow it to come to room temperature. This will make it easier to spread or pipe onto your desserts, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in the frosting recipe?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the frosting from becoming too salty.
How can I make the frosting sweeter?
To increase the sweetness, add more powdered sugar to taste. Start with an additional ¼ cup and adjust as needed.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture to the frosting, giving it a delightful crunch.
How do I prevent the frosting from being too thick?
If the frosting is too thick, gradually add milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Can I freeze the frosting?
Yes, you can freeze the frosting. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before using.
How do I make the frosting fluffier?
For a lighter, fluffier texture, beat the frosting on high speed for an additional 2-3 minutes after all ingredients are combined.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may result in a thinner frosting. Ensure the peanut butter is well-stirred and has a creamy consistency before mixing.
How do I prevent the frosting from separating?
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If the frosting separates, re-whip it until smooth.
Can I add chocolate chips to the frosting?
Yes, folding in mini chocolate chips can add texture and enhance the chocolate-peanut butter flavor.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, decrease the amount of powdered sugar and increase the amount of peanut butter to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
This Homemade Peanut Butter Frosting is a versatile and delicious addition to your baking repertoire. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect complement to a variety of desserts. Whether you’re preparing a special treat or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this frosting is sure to delight.
Homemade Peanut Butter Frosting
This Homemade Peanut Butter Frosting is rich, creamy, and perfect for cakes, cupcakes, brownies, and more. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a versatile and indulgent frosting that elevates any dessert with its nutty, sweet flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Dash of milk or heavy cream (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Beat the Butters: In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1 minute until light and fluffy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed for 1-2 minutes, scraping the sides as needed, until fully combined.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream. Continue beating until smooth and creamy.
- Apply the Frosting: Spread or pipe the frosting onto cakes, cupcakes, or brownies as desired.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Before using, allow refrigerated frosting to come to room temperature for easy spreading or piping.
- Variations: Try adding unsweetened cocoa powder for chocolate peanut butter frosting, or a dash of cinnamon for a spiced twist.
- Freezing: You can freeze the frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before use.
