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A silky peanut butter frosting has been my go to for birthdays bake sales and those days when something a little extra is needed on top of a chocolate cupcake This recipe transforms just five everyday ingredients into a fluffy cloud of salty sweet bliss that spreads and pipes beautifully over cakes and cookies
I first whipped this up when my husband asked for a peanut butter cake on his birthday and now it is our top requested frosting for any celebration around here
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: offers creamy richness and ensures the perfect base for whipping look for a good quality butter with a sweet clean scent
- Creamy peanut butter: delivers that classic flavor and silky texture select a well mixed brand rather than a natural type that separates
- Powdered sugar: brings the sweetness and helps achieve a fluffy consistency always sift for no lumps
- Vanilla extract: deepens flavor go with pure vanilla for best taste
- Milk or heavy cream: creates that light spreadable texture use cream for extra decadent results and add slowly to avoid thinning too much
Instructions
- Cream the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl place the room temperature unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter With an electric mixer on medium speed beat for about one minute until the mix looks light fluffy and smooth making sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure even blending
- Sweeten and Flavor:
- Add three cups of sifted powdered sugar and the vanilla extract to the bowl Beat on low speed at first to avoid sugar dust clouds Increase speed when the mixture starts to come together Continue mixing until everything is fully blended and scrape down the bowl as you go
- Adjust Consistency:
- Check the texture of your frosting It should be thick yet spreadable If it feels too stiff add one tablespoon of milk or heavy cream at a time Beat on medium speed checking after each addition until you have a soft fluffy frosting that holds peaks and spreads with ease
- Frost and Enjoy:
- Spread or pipe the frosting onto completely cooled cakes cupcakes brownies or cookies For a neat look use an offset spatula or piping bag If you like swirls finish with a twist of the wrist Serve at room temperature for the smoothest texture
Peanut butter is a long standing favorite in my family and using it in frosting always gets rave reviews I remember making this for my daughter’s first bake sale and she said her classmates fought over the last cupcake My favorite part is licking the beaters when nobody is looking
Storage Tips
Keep leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week Let it come to room temperature before spreading for best texture For longer storage freeze portions in a zip top bag press out extra air and use within two months Defrost overnight in the fridge and re whip for fluffiness
Ingredient Swaps
If you want a touch of crunch try using chunky peanut butter in place of creamy Sunflower seed butter works for a nut free version but will alter the flavor Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream if you prefer a dairy free option Always taste as you go since sweetness and saltiness can vary
Serving Ideas
This frosting shines on chocolate or banana cake but is just as amazing sandwiched between chewy cookies Swirl over brownies or fill cupcakes for a decadent surprise You can also spread it between crackers for a sweet snack at parties
This fluffy peanut butter frosting takes all your cakes and cookies to the next level One taste and you will want to bake just to have an excuse to make it again
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Simply omit or reduce additional salt to balance the flavor.
- → Is natural peanut butter suitable?
Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may change the texture slightly due to oil separation. Stir well before adding.
- → How can I make the frosting fluffier?
Beat the mixture for an extra 1-2 minutes to incorporate more air, creating a lighter, fluffier texture.
- → Does this frosting need refrigeration?
If not using within a few hours, refrigerate to maintain freshness. Bring to room temperature before using.
- → Can I add chocolate to this frosting?
Melted chocolate or cocoa powder can be added for a chocolate-peanut butter twist. Adjust sugar as needed.