Chocolate Peanut Butter Volcano Cupcakes are a decadent treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the creamy, luscious taste of peanut butter. These cupcakes have a hidden surprise—a gooey peanut butter center that melts in your mouth. Each cupcake is topped with a smooth and creamy peanut butter frosting, making it an indulgent delight. The process begins by preparing a simple chocolate batter, baking the cupcakes, and then adding a molten peanut butter filling. Finally, the cupcakes are finished with a fluffy peanut butter frosting that enhances the overall flavor. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a delightful treat at home.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Volcano Cupcakes are a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. With a gooey peanut butter center and a smooth frosting on top, these cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a chocolate lover or a peanut butter fanatic, these treats deliver the best of both worlds.
INGREDIENTS
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/2 cup
- All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup
- Baking soda: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Milk: 1/2 cup
- For the filling:
- Creamy peanut butter: 1/2 cup
- Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup
- Milk: 2 tbsp
- For the frosting:
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened
- Creamy peanut butter: 1 cup
- Powdered sugar: 2 cups
- Milk: 2-3 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and ready your muffin pan with liners.
- Step 2:
- Combine the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Step 3:
- In a different container, mix together the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla before incorporating dry ingredients, switching with milk additions.
- Step 4:
- Divide the batter into liners, filling each to about 2/3 capacity, and bake for 18-20 minutes; let them cool fully.
- Step 5:
- Prepare the filling by blending the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk together and fill the center of each cupcake.
- Step 6:
- Whip the butter and peanut butter until smooth; add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to complete the frosting. Pipe this mixture atop the cupcakes.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For the best molten effect, serve slightly warmed to keep the peanut butter center gooey.
Helpful Notes
- Make sure the cupcakes are fully cooled before adding the filling and frosting to prevent melting.
- You can add a pinch of sea salt on top of the frosting to balance the sweetness.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use a piping bag for filling the cupcakes to make the process cleaner and easier.
The Ultimate Indulgence for Peanut Butter Lovers
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Volcano Cupcakes are the perfect indulgent treat, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. The gooey center makes each bite a delightful surprise, while the smooth frosting adds a finishing touch. Ideal for parties, birthdays, or just a special treat for yourself!
FAQs
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze them without the frosting. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute melted coconut oil or canola oil for a slightly different flavor.
How do I prevent the peanut butter filling from leaking?
Make sure to insert the filling deep enough into the cupcake and cover the hole well with frosting.
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
It's best to use regular creamy peanut butter, as natural peanut butter can separate and may not provide the desired consistency.
Summary
Chocolate Peanut Butter Volcano Cupcakes are the perfect indulgent dessert for peanut butter lovers. These cupcakes feature a moist, rich chocolate base filled with a gooey peanut butter center, creating a delicious surprise with every bite. Topped with a smooth and creamy peanut butter frosting, each cupcake is a combination of textures and flavors that blend beautifully together. They are easy to make and perfect for any event, whether you're hosting a party, bringing treats to work, or just craving something sweet. The molten peanut butter center adds an element of fun, while the frosting ties all the flavors together. Serve them slightly warm to enjoy the full gooey experience, or have them chilled for a firmer texture.