Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes Recipe
Deliciously moist peanut butter banana cupcakes made with ripe bananas, spiced with cinnamon, and topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting. Perfectly balanced sweet and nutty flavors combined in a soft, fluffy cupcake that’s ideal for any occasion.
- Author: Natalie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Banana Cupcakes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (187.5 grams)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/3 cup oil (80 ml) (vegetable or canola)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (80 ml)
- 3/4 cup mashed bananas (180 ml) (about 2–3 very ripe bananas)
For the Peanut Butter Frosting
- 2/3 cup unsalted butter (150 grams) (softened)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (125 grams) (do not use natural or homemade)
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar (220 – 330 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk or cream (30–45 ml)
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C or 170°C fan forced) and prepare a muffin pan by lining it with cupcake papers. This helps the cupcakes bake evenly and releases easily after baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spice.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract together until smooth and no lumps remain. Then whisk in the buttermilk to add moisture and tang.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gradually whisk the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until the batter is smooth and without lumps.
- Add mashed bananas: Gently fold the mashed bananas into the batter using a spatula. Expect some lumps due to the bananas, which are perfect for texture and flavor.
- Fill cupcake liners: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin liners, filling each about two-thirds to three-quarters full for optimal rise without overflowing.
- Bake the cupcakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 20 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when they are ready.
- Prepare the peanut butter frosting: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and continue beating to combine thoroughly.
- Add powdered sugar and flavorings: Add 1 cup of powdered sugar along with salt and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed to combine.
- Adjust sweetness and texture: Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar in half-cup increments, alternating with tablespoons of milk or cream until the frosting reaches your desired sweetness and spreadable consistency.
- Decorate the cupcakes: Spread or pipe the peanut butter frosting onto cooled cupcakes using a knife or a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a decorative finish.
Notes
- You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes.
- Use very ripe bananas for best flavor and sweetness.
- Do not use natural or homemade peanut butter for frosting as it may be too oily.
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: banana cupcakes, peanut butter frosting, homemade cupcakes, easy dessert, banana recipe