Step-by-Step Instructions for Gooey Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with liners. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, giving the cupcakes their soft texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Gently fold in the flour, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so be careful not to overwork the batter.
Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Spoon a small amount of batter into each cupcake liner, filling them about halfway. This creates a base for the gooey peanut butter center.
Step 6: Add the Peanut Butter Lava
Drop a generous teaspoon of peanut butter into the center of each cupcake. To get that signature lava effect, use creamy peanut butter or warm it slightly before spooning it in.
Step 7: Cover with More Batter
Top each cupcake with the remaining batter, ensuring the peanut butter is fully encased.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the cupcakes in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The tops should be set but still slightly soft in the center. Remember, the key to achieving the gooey lava texture is not to overbake!
Step 9: Cool Slightly and Serve Warm
Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve them warm for the ultimate gooey experience!
- Use High-Quality Peanut Butter – Natural peanut butter may be too runny, while processed versions create the best lava texture.
- Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on your cupcakes to ensure the centers stay gooey.
- Try a Chocolate Twist – Add cocoa powder to the batter for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.
- Chill Your Peanut Butter – Slightly chilled peanut butter holds its shape better during baking, creating a perfect lava effect.
- Experiment with Fillings – Swap peanut butter for Nutella, caramel, or even cookie butter for a fun twist.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to a week. Warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
- Freeze: Wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm slightly before serving.
Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
For an extra indulgent touch, top your cupcakes with this creamy peanut butter frosting:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and creamy.
- Pipe or spread onto cooled cupcakes and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Gooey Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes are the perfect blend of rich, buttery cake and indulgent, molten peanut butter. Whether you’re a peanut butter fanatic or just love a decadent dessert, these cupcakes will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and indulge in one of the most delicious cupcake experiences ever! Don’t forget to share your results—I’d love to hear how they turned out!
