Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

Recipe By:
jesseca
Updated:

Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting is a delightful addition to any dessert, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among many. Imagine that perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and just a hint of saltiness. The rich flavor of peanut butter mingles with the soft, fluffy texture of butter in a way that makes your taste buds sing. Whether you’re frosting cupcakes for a birthday party or simply looking to jazz up your afternoon snack, this frosting is incredibly versatile.

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Making this Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting is straightforward and fun! With just a few simple ingredients and some mixing, you’ll have a beautifully smooth frosting that can top everything from chocolate cakes to vanilla cookies. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase your love for peanut butter in the sweetest way. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of homemade frosting!

Why This Recipe Works

This Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting recipe excels in delivering a rich, creamy texture that perfectly accompanies various baked goods. The blend of unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter provides a moisture balance, while the sifting of powdered sugar ensures a silky finish.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

Crafted for peanut butter lovers, this frosting is both indulgent and versatile. Its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor enhance cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, making it the go-to topping for any dessert.

Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients

  • 2 sticks (227 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (270 grams) creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 1/2 cups (313 grams) powdered sugar, sifted

How to Make Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

Begin with Softened Butter and Peanut Butter

Start by taking your unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter out of the fridge. They need to be at room temperature for easy mixing. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine both ingredients. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Don’t hesitate to scrape down the sides occasionally to make sure everything gets incorporated well. This step creates a nice base for your frosting to build upon.

Add Flavor Enhancers

Once your initial mix is fluffy, it’s time to step up the flavor! Mix in the vanilla extract and fine salt. These small additions might seem simple, but they make a big difference. The vanilla adds a warm depth, while the salt balances the sweetness in the frosting, creating that irresistible flavor everyone loves.

Incorporate Powdered Sugar

Now, it’s time to add the star of the show—powdered sugar. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the bowl while the mixer is running on low speed. Once you’ve added all the sugar, increase the speed to medium-high again. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and fluffy, which should take around three minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that silky texture in your Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting.

Adjust Consistency if Needed

As you finish mixing, check the frosting’s consistency. If it feels too soft or runny, don’t worry! Just add an extra tablespoon or two of powdered sugar to thicken it up. This is an easy way to customize your frosting based on your preferences or how you plan to use it.

Serving Suggestions

This Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, brownies, and cookies. Pair it with chocolate cake for a classic combination or spread it on rice cakes for a quick snack. It also works beautifully as a dip for pretzels or fruit if you’re feeling adventurous. The options are endless!

Tips for Success

  • Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy blending.
  • Always sift your powdered sugar to avoid clumps in your frosting.
  • Taste and adjust sweetness to suit your preference—using additional sugar can help!

Variations

Now, if you want to switch things up, here are a few fun variations to try:
Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting: Mix in cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist that pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts.
Crunchy Peanut Butter Frosting: Substitute creamy peanut butter for crunchy peanut butter to add a bit of texture that’s fun to eat.
Maple Peanut Butter Buttercream: Add a splash of maple syrup for a unique flavor profile that’ll tickle your taste buds.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftover frosting (though it might be hard to resist), transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for three months. When you’re ready to use it again, let it come to room temperature and re-whip in the stand mixer until it’s light and fluffy again. This will bring back that delightful texture.

Pairing Ideas

Want some inspiration for what to spread this amazing frosting on? Here are a few tasty ideas:
Cookies: Spread on sugar cookies for a delicious treat that everyone will love.
Banana Bread: This frosting complements the flavor of banana bread beautifully, adding a new dimension to this classic baked good.
Chocolate Cupcakes: Use it as a filling or a topping for an unforgettable dessert experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A1: While natural peanut butter can be used, it may alter the texture and flavor slightly, resulting in a less creamy frosting. Stick to creamy peanut butter for the best results.

Q2: How long does this frosting last?
A2: This frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for three months.

Q3: Can I freeze Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting?
A3: Yes! Just be sure to store it in an airtight container, and allow it to thaw before re-whipping.

Q4: What can I do if my frosting is too runny?
A4: If the frosting is too runny, simply add additional powdered sugar to get your desired consistency.

Q5: Can I use this frosting for piping decorations?
A5: Absolutely! This frosting holds its shape well, making it great for piping onto cupcakes or cakes.

Indulging in this Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting not only elevates the simplest of desserts but also brings a delightful experience to those who love the combination of sweet and salty flavors. Its creamy texture and rich peanut butter taste ensure that every bite is satisfying. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy evening at home, this frosting is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

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Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

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Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting is a deliciously creamy topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Its sweet and nutty flavor enhances every dessert.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Frosting for 12 cupcakes 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 sticks (227 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (270 grams) creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 1/2 cups (313 grams) powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

  • Soften butter and peanut butter at room temperature.
  • Beat softened butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
  • Add vanilla extract and fine salt; mix well.
  • Gradually incorporate powdered sugar on low speed, then beat until smooth and fluffy.
  • Adjust consistency with additional powdered sugar if necessary.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
Ensure powdered sugar is sifted to avoid clumps.
Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar as needed.

  • Author: jesseca
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 9
  • Sodium: 50
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 3
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 10
  • Fiber: 0
  • Protein: 2
  • Cholesterol: 15

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