Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable treat! These Nutter Butter Cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re a delightful journey into the world of peanut butter perfection. If you’re a fan of the classic Nutter Butter cookie, get ready to experience that beloved flavor transformed into a moist, fluffy cupcake crowned with a rich, creamy peanut butter frosting. This recipe is an absolute game-changer for any occasion, proving that you simply can’t go wrong with anything Nutter Butter. They are, quite honestly, so incredibly good!

Ultimate Nutter Butter Cupcakes: A Must-Try Peanut Butter Recipe

These ultimate Nutter Butter Cupcakes are the epitome of easy homemade baking, perfect for elevating any gathering or simply brightening a regular weekday. Whether you’re planning a lively birthday party, a casual picnic, or just craving a delicious sweet treat after a long day, these peanut butter-infused delights are your answer. Their comforting flavor profile makes them an instant hit with both kids and adults, promising smiles with every single bite.

Crafted with love, this Nutter Butter Cupcakes recipe is an exceptional sweet indulgence. They are perfectly suited for holiday celebrations, festive birthday parties, or as a delightful dessert to share with cherished friends and family! The unique combination of a tender cupcake base, studded with crushed Nutter Butter cookies, and a luscious peanut butter frosting creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that is truly addictive.

Why Nutter Butter Cupcakes Will Be Your New Favorite Dessert

What makes Nutter Butter Cupcakes so irresistibly good? It’s the delightful fusion of nostalgic flavors and the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Nutter Butter cookies, with their distinct peanut butter sandwich design, bring a unique texture and an authentic peanut butter taste that elevates these cupcakes far beyond the ordinary. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the crushed cookies embedded within the moist cake, complemented by the smooth, rich peanut butter frosting that melts in your mouth. This isn’t just a cupcake; it’s a celebration of all things peanut butter.

Beyond their incredible taste, these cupcakes are also surprisingly straightforward to make. Even if you’re a novice baker, our detailed instructions will guide you through each step, ensuring a successful and utterly scrumptious outcome. They are a fantastic way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, making them ideal for impromptu gatherings, school bake sales, or planned celebrations where you want to serve something truly special and memorable.

Essential Tips for Baking Perfect Cupcakes Every Time

Achieving bakery-quality cupcakes at home is easier than you think with a few key techniques. Follow these expert tips to ensure your Nutter Butter Cupcakes turn out perfectly moist, fluffy, and delicious every single time:

• Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: Always start with room temperature eggs, butter, and Greek yogurt. This allows them to cream together more easily, creating a smoother, more emulsified batter. A well-emulsified batter bakes more evenly and results in a lighter, fluffier cupcake texture. If your ingredients are too cold, the batter can appear curdled and lead to a denser cupcake.
• Measure Accurately: Baking is a precise science, and precision matters, especially with flour. Use proper measuring cups and spoons. For flour, employ the spoon-and-level method: spoon the flour into the measuring cup until it overflows, then level off the excess with a straight edge (like the back of a knife). This prevents packing too much flour into the cup, which can lead to dry and dense cupcakes.
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, chewy cupcakes instead of tender ones. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and often preferred.
• Fill Cupcake Liners Evenly: For consistent baking and perfectly domed tops, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full. An ice cream scoop or a large cookie scoop works wonderfully for this, ensuring each cupcake is the same size and bakes uniformly. Unevenly filled liners can result in some cupcakes being overbaked while others are underbaked.
• Preheat Oven Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature (350°F or 175°C) before placing the cupcakes inside. An accurately preheated oven helps the cupcakes rise correctly and bake evenly from the start. Consider investing in an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s true temperature, as many ovens can be inaccurate.
• Don’t Open the Oven Door Too Soon: Resist the urge to peek during the first 10-12 minutes of baking. Opening the oven door can cause the temperature to drop suddenly, leading to collapsed or sunken cupcakes.
• Test for Doneness: Cupcakes are typically done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The tops should spring back lightly when gently touched.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the muffin pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Frosting warm cupcakes will inevitably result in melted, messy frosting that slides right off. Patience is key for a beautiful and stable finish!

Crafting the Dreamy Peanut Butter Frosting: A Step-by-Step Guide

The creamy peanut butter frosting is the crown jewel of these Nutter Butter Cupcakes, delivering a rich, luscious texture and an intense peanut butter flavor that perfectly complements the cake. Here are some invaluable tips for making the best frosting:

• Ensure Butter/Sweet Cream is Softened: Just like with the cupcake batter, ensuring your butter (or sweet cream, as specified in the recipe) is softened to room temperature is paramount. This makes it significantly easier to cream with the powdered sugar, preventing lumps and creating a smooth, airy base for your frosting.
• Sift Powdered Sugar for Smoothness: Sifting confectioners’ (powdered) sugar is a crucial step to avoid a grainy or lumpy frosting. It helps to break up any clumps and incorporates the sugar smoothly, contributing to a light, airy, and utterly delicious texture. Don’t skip this!
• Gradually Adjust Consistency: The exact amount of liquid (heavy cream) needed can vary slightly depending on factors like humidity, the temperature of your ingredients, and how packed your powdered sugar is. Add the heavy cream gradually, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition, until you achieve your desired consistency. The frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape when piped but still easy to spread. If it becomes too thick, add a tiny bit more cream; if too thin, incorporate a tablespoon or two more sifted powdered sugar.
• Use Quality Creamy Peanut Butter: For the best flavor and texture, use a classic creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy), not natural or oilier varieties. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and can give your frosting a greasy or inconsistent texture. A good quality, classic creamy peanut butter will yield the smoothest and richest flavor.
• Whip for Airiness: Once all ingredients are combined, whip the frosting on medium-high speed for an additional 2-3 minutes. This incorporates air, making the frosting lighter, fluffier, and easier to pipe.
• Piping for Perfection: For a professional, bakery-style look, use a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip (like Wilton 1M) or a large round tip. If you’re new to piping, practice a few swirls on a piece of parchment paper or a plate before frosting your actual cupcakes. This ensures even distribution and a beautiful presentation.

Great Dessert Recipes to Explore Further

If you’ve fallen in love with these Nutter Butter Cupcakes and are eager to discover more delectable treats, you’re in luck! Here are some other delightful dessert creations from our collection that you might also enjoy, each offering a unique flavor profile and satisfying sweetness:

• Nutter Butter Banana Pudding: A truly comforting Southern classic elevated with the irresistible flavor and crunch of Nutter Butter cookies.
• Sweet and Salty Chocolate Dessert Bars: The perfect harmony of sweet and salty in a convenient, easy-to-share bar form, ideal for potlucks or parties.
• Soft Molasses Cookies: Chewy, spiced, and wonderfully aromatic, these cookies evoke warmth and comfort with every bite, perfect for cozy evenings.
• Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars: Indulgent and elegant, these bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the caramelized sugar crust of a crème brûlée – a dessert that truly shines.
• Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread: A gooey, pull-apart treat infused with warm cinnamon, perfect for a decadent breakfast or a comforting dessert that everyone will love.

Craving more fantastic recipes for every occasion? Be sure to explore our extensive collection, including irresistible copycat recipes that recreate your restaurant favorites, a wide array of decadent dessert recipes for every sweet tooth, and our incredibly convenient Crock Pot Recipes for effortless meals that simplify your cooking routine.

Nutter Butter Cupcakes Recipe

Delicious Nutter Butter Cupcakes perfect for birthday parties or any day!

Print Recipe

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
20 minutes

Total Time:
35 minutes

Servings:
12

Calories:
452 kcal

Author:
Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ C All Purpose Flour (recommended product)
• 1 C White Sugar (recommended product)
• 1 ¾ teaspoon Baking Powder (recommended product)
• 2 Tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (recommended product)
• ½ C Butter, softened
• ¼ C Greek Yogurt
• 2 Eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (recommended product)
• ½ C Milk (recommended product)
• ½ C Nutter Butter cookies, crushed (recommended product)

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 3 C Confectioners Powdered Sugar (recommended product)
• ½ C sweet cream (unsalted butter, softened, works too)
• 2 Tablespoon Heavy Whipping Cream
• 4 Tablespoon Creamy Peanut Butter (recommended product)

Instructions

1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper cupcake liners.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Sifting ensures a lump-free mixture and lighter cupcakes. Set aside.
3. Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on low speed, cream together the softened butter (or sweet cream), Greek yogurt, and 1 cup of white sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. This typically takes 2-3 minutes.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, to the yogurt and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing just until combined.
5. Add Milk and Crushed Cookies: Gradually add the milk to the wet ingredients, beating slowly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the crushed Nutter Butter cookies until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Fill and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
7. Cool Cupcakes: Allow the baked cupcakes to cool in the muffin pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Ensure they are entirely cool before proceeding to frost.

Frosting Directions

1. Start the Frosting Base: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), combine the ½ cup softened sweet cream (or butter) with the 3 cups confectioners’ powdered sugar. Mix on low speed until they are just combined and resemble small pebbles or wet sand.
2. Add Cream and Mix: Pour in the 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat until the mixture is thoroughly blended and begins to thicken, becoming light and fluffy.
3. Achieve Desired Consistency: Test the frosting consistency. It should be thick enough to hold stiff peaks. If it’s too soft or thin, gradually add more sifted powdered sugar (½ cup at a time) and mix until the desired stiffness is achieved. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more heavy cream (1 teaspoon at a time).
4. Incorporate Peanut Butter: Add the 4 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter to the frosting mixture. Mix well on medium speed until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and evenly flavored with peanut butter.
5. Frost the Cupcakes: Scoop the prepared frosting into a pastry bag fitted with your desired large frosting tip (a star tip or round tip works beautifully). Twist the open end of the pastry bag to push the frosting towards the tip, ensuring an even flow. Generously frost each cooled cupcake.
6. Garnish (Optional): For a perfect finish, place a whole or half Nutter Butter cookie, or a sprinkle of crushed Nutter Butter cookies, in the center of the frosting on each cupcake as a delightful garnish.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
• Muffin Pan (12-cup standard size)
• Large and Medium Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons (for dry and wet ingredients)
• Sifter (for flour and powdered sugar)
• Wire Cooling Rack
• Pastry Bag and Large Frosting Tip (optional, but recommended for decorative frosting)
• Wooden Skewer or Toothpick (for testing doneness)

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts

Nutter Butter Cupcakes

Amount Per Serving

Calories 452
Calories from Fat 180

% Daily Value*

Fat 20g31%

Saturated Fat 11g69%

Cholesterol 72mg24%

Sodium 181mg8%

Potassium 159mg5%

Carbohydrates 66g22%

Fiber 3g13%

Sugar 49g54%

Protein 5g10%

Vitamin A 582IU12%

Vitamin C 1mg1%

Calcium 97mg10%

Iron 1mg6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Variations & Customizations for Your Nutter Butter Cupcakes

While these Nutter Butter Cupcakes are perfectly delightful as is, there’s always room for a little creativity and customization! Here are some ideas to make them uniquely yours, or to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences:

• Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra layer of decadence and visual appeal, swirl some melted milk or dark chocolate over the peanut butter frosting. Use a piping bag with a tiny tip or simply a spoon for a rustic look.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips (about ½ cup) into the cupcake batter along with the crushed Nutter Butter cookies for a delightful chocolate-peanut butter combination that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted, depending on your preference) on top of the frosting for an extra nutty crunch and a more intense peanut flavor. This also adds a beautiful textural contrast.
• Nutter Butter Crumb Topping: Instead of a whole cookie, crush extra Nutter Butter cookies into fine crumbs and sprinkle them generously over the freshly frosted cupcakes. This creates a uniform, appealing look and adds a delicious crunch.
• Salted Caramel Swirl: For a gourmet touch, swirl a bit of store-bought or homemade salted caramel sauce into your peanut butter frosting before piping, or drizzle it elegantly over the top of the finished cupcakes.
• Mini Cupcakes: To make bite-sized treats perfect for parties or portion control, use mini muffin tins. Adjust the baking time; mini cupcakes usually bake for 9-12 minutes.
• Dairy-Free Option: If you need a dairy-free alternative, substitute regular milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk. For the frosting, use a high-quality dairy-free butter substitute and a dairy-free cream. Always ensure your Nutter Butter cookies are suitable for your dietary needs if that is a strict requirement.
• Gluten-Free Flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Note that baking times and texture might vary slightly.

Serving and Storage Suggestions to Keep Your Cupcakes Fresh

These Nutter Butter Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but knowing how to serve them perfectly and store them correctly will ensure they remain at their peak deliciousness for as long as possible:

Serving

• At Room Temperature for Best Flavor: For the optimal flavor and texture experience, allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before serving, especially if they have been refrigerated. Cold frosting can be firm and less flavorful.
• Perfect Pairings: These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a warm cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
• Party Presentation: Arrange them on a tiered dessert stand, a colorful platter, or individual cupcake pedestals for an impressive presentation at parties, birthdays, or casual get-togethers. They are always a conversation starter!

Storage

• Unfrosted Cupcakes (Room Temperature): If you haven’t frosted the cupcakes yet, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation.
• Frosted Cupcakes (Refrigeration): Once frosted, the cupcakes contain dairy and should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Placing them in a container that allows space between the frosting and the lid will help preserve their appearance.
• Allow to Warm Slightly Before Serving: When taking refrigerated frosted cupcakes out to serve, let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This brings the frosting back to its creamy consistency and enhances the overall flavor of the cupcake.
• Freezing Unfrosted Cupcakes: Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap each cooled cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before frosting and serving.
• Freezing Frosted Cupcakes (Not Recommended): While technically possible, freezing frosted cupcakes is generally not recommended. The texture of the frosting, especially those with high dairy content, can change upon thawing, becoming watery or grainy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Nutter Butter Cupcakes

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for the frosting?

While you can use crunchy peanut butter in the cupcake batter for added texture, creamy peanut butter is highly recommended for the frosting to ensure a smooth, silky consistency. Crunchy peanut butter in frosting can make it grainy and harder to pipe.

How can I make sure my cupcakes are moist and not dry?

The Greek yogurt in this recipe is a fantastic ingredient for keeping the cupcakes incredibly moist. To ensure moisture, also remember not to overmix the batter (which can develop gluten and make them tough) and avoid overbaking. Test for doneness as soon as the timer goes off, and remove them promptly from the oven.

Can I make the cupcake batter ahead of time?

It’s generally best to bake the cupcakes immediately after mixing the wet and dry ingredients together to ensure proper leavening and optimal texture. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately a day in advance and store them, then combine them just before baking.

My frosting is too thin/too thick. What should I do to fix it?

If your frosting is too thin, gradually add more sifted confectioners’ powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition until it reaches the desired firm consistency. If it’s too thick, add heavy cream (or a splash of milk) one teaspoon at a time, mixing until smooth and pipeable.

How many Nutter Butter cookies do I need to crush for the batter?

Approximately ½ cup of crushed Nutter Butter cookies would be about 6-8 full-sized cookies, depending on how finely they are crushed. It’s always a good idea to have a few extra cookies on hand for garnishing the finished cupcakes as well!

Can I substitute Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or regular plain yogurt (ensure it’s thick, draining off any excess liquid if necessary) as a substitute. These alternatives will also contribute to a moist cupcake texture.