If you’re searching for a truly indulgent treat that balances sweet, salty, and nutty flavors perfectly, look no further than the Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes combine moist banana-infused cake with the richness of peanut butter and a luscious caramel surprise nestled right in the center. Each bite offers a warm hug of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds before you know it. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a moist, flavorful cupcake with a gooey caramel center. Each component plays a crucial role, from the ripe bananas that add natural sweetness and moisture to the peanut butter that brings creamy richness and depth.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure to keep the cupcakes tender yet sturdy enough to hold the caramel filling.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully for a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works synergistically with the baking powder for extra lift and a tender crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and keeps the cupcakes moist.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough to harmonize with the banana and peanut butter.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Introduces a subtle molasses undertone that complements the caramel.
- 2 large ripe bananas (mashed): Infuse the cupcakes with natural sweetness and moisture for a soft, tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a fluffy texture.
- 1/3 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps the batter come together smoothly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Brings a nutty richness that pairs beautifully with banana and caramel.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling): The star of the show in the center, offering sweet gooeyness with every bite.
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish): Adds a delightful crunch and extra peanut flavor.
How to Make Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is key to a uniform texture throughout the cupcakes.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration process is what gives the cupcakes their tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality while balancing the sweetness with a rich buttery base.
Step 3: Add Bananas, Eggs, Milk, and Vanilla
Next, mix in the mashed bananas, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is combined well. The bananas add moisture and natural sweetness, while the eggs and milk keep the batter smooth and help the cupcakes rise just right.
Step 4: Incorporate Peanut Butter
Stir in the creamy peanut butter until the mixture is silky smooth. This step infuses a nutty flavor throughout the batter that perfectly complements both the caramel and banana.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser cupcakes, so stop once you no longer see streaks of flour for the fluffiest result.
Step 6: Bake and Fill with Caramel
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before carefully creating a small well in the center of each and spooning in the luscious caramel sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Finish
Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the tops of your cupcakes and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if you like some extra crunch and texture. Let the caramel settle before enjoying these delectable treats!
How to Serve Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cupcakes by garnishing with chopped peanuts, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a small dollop of peanut butter frosting. These finishing touches add visual appeal and amplify the creamy, crunchy, and sticky goodness in every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to contrast the rich flavors and add a cool, light element. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea also complements the warm, nutty sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party presentation, serve these cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand alongside banana slices and small bowls of caramel and chopped peanuts, letting guests customize their toppings. You can also wrap them individually in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon for sweet take-home gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This short window helps maintain their moist texture and prevents the caramel from becoming too sticky or runny.
Freezing
If you want to store the cupcakes longer, freeze them without the caramel filling and toppings. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh caramel and nuts before serving.
Reheating
To warm up cupcakes, pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or briefly in a low oven. This simple reheating revives the softness and enhances the gooey caramel charm, almost like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter in this Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe?
Natural peanut butter can be used, but since it has a thinner consistency and less sugar, the cupcakes may have a slightly different texture and flavor. Consider adding a touch of extra sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Is it possible to make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Be mindful that texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will be just as delicious.
How ripe should the bananas be for the best flavor?
For maximum sweetness and moisture, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots. The riper the bananas, the more flavor and natural sugar they add to the cupcakes.
Can these cupcakes be made dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk. The cupcakes’ flavor and texture remain rich and moist despite the substitutions.
What is the best way to prevent caramel from leaking out during baking?
To avoid caramel oozing during baking, add it only after the cupcakes have fully cooled. This recipe cleverly fills the caramel well post-bake, ensuring that the gooey center stays intact when bitten into.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe that blends beloved flavors into one delightful package. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, serving at a party, or indulging on a quiet night in, these cupcakes bring pure joy with every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe — it’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your baking rotation!
Print
Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of flavors featuring moist banana-infused cupcakes with a creamy peanut butter twist, topped with a luscious caramel center and drizzled caramel sauce. Perfect for dessert lovers craving a rich and indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter together with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help to create a tender cupcake texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the mashed ripe bananas, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture until well combined, forming a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Peanut Butter: Stir in the creamy peanut butter until the batter is smooth and evenly blended.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make cupcakes dense.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about three-quarters full to allow space for rising.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and cool them completely on a wire rack before adding the filling to prevent melting.
- Fill with Caramel and Garnish: Use a small knife or spoon to create a shallow well in the center of each cooled cupcake and fill it with caramel sauce. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce based on your preference or availability.
- For extra flavor, top these cupcakes with peanut butter or caramel frosting to make them even more indulgent.
- These cupcakes are best served fresh the same day they are made but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
