Reese’s Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines chocolate and peanut butter, look no further than these Reese’s Cupcakes! This recipe has become a family favorite in my home. The rich chocolate cake paired with creamy peanut butter frosting and chunks of Reese’s Miniature Cups is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, these cupcakes bring smiles all around.

What makes these cupcakes extra special is how quickly they come together. With just six simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of deliciousness ready to enjoy in no time. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just six ingredients, you’ll whip these up in a flash!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual weeknight dessert, these cupcakes fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and frost before serving to save time.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The flavor combination is sure to impress any dessert lover.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Reese’s Cupcakes are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Each one plays a role in creating that perfect balance of flavors.

For the Cupcakes

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
• 10.5 ounces Reese’s Miniature Cups (1 “share pack” size package)

For the Frosting

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk (as needed to thin the frosting)

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have at home!

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like peanuts for an extra texture boost.
• Switch Up the Frosting: Try using chocolate frosting instead of peanut butter for a double chocolate treat!
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this dessert suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Top with Extras: Decorate with extra pieces of Reese’s or drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an added touch.

How to Make Reese’s Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on your chocolate cake mix box. Then, prepare the batter as directed, adding those delicious chunks from your Reese’s Miniature Cups right into the mix. This step ensures every bite has that delightful surprise!

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

Pour the batter into cupcake liners in a muffin tin and bake until they are just set—about 16 minutes should do it! Keep an eye on them; overbaking can lead to dry cupcakes, and we want them moist and fluffy.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

While your cupcakes cool, it’s time to whip up that scrumptious peanut butter frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and enough milk until you reach your desired spreading consistency. This step adds richness that perfectly complements our cupcakes.

Step 4: Frost and Enjoy!

Once your cupcakes have cooled completely, frost them generously with your peanut butter frosting. Feel free to get creative here! Top each cupcake with additional pieces of Reese’s Miniature Cups for an eye-catching presentation. Now, sit back and enjoy every delectable bite of your homemade Reese’s Cupcakes!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Cupcakes

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll create the most scrumptious Reese’s Cupcakes that everyone will love!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter, resulting in fluffier cupcakes.
• Chop the Miniature Cups: For an extra burst of flavor, chop some of the Reese’s Miniature Cups into smaller pieces to fold into the batter. This adds delightful chocolate-peanut butter pockets throughout the cupcakes!
• Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes instead of light and airy ones.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cupcakes a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re done!
• Allow to Cool Completely: Let your cupcakes cool entirely before frosting them. This helps prevent the frosting from melting and ensures your treats look picture-perfect!

How to Serve Reese’s Cupcakes

Serving these delightful Reese’s Cupcakes can elevate any occasion! Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family gathering, here are some ways to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor that complements the peanut butter.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A quick drizzle of melted chocolate over the frosted cupcakes adds an elegant touch and makes them even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, creating a classic dessert experience.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes. Opt for berries or citrus fruits for a pop of color and flavor.
• Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Serving these cupcakes with coffee or hot chocolate enhances their indulgent nature, making for a cozy dessert option—perfect for chilly evenings!

By following these tips and presentation ideas, your Reese’s Cupcakes will not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on any dessert table! Enjoy sharing (or indulging) in this delicious treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Reese’s Cupcakes are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• If you live in a very warm climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label the date!

Reheating

• Thaw cupcakes overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power, just until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Reese’s Cupcakes.

Can I use another type of cake mix for Reese’s Cupcakes?

Absolutely! While chocolate cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or even red velvet. Just ensure that the flavors complement the peanut butter frosting.

How do I achieve the best frosting consistency for my Reese’s Cupcakes?

To get the perfect consistency, start with softened butter and peanut butter. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and a splash of milk until you’ve reached your desired thickness. Remember, you want it spreadable but not too runny!

Are Reese’s Cupcakes suitable for special diets?

These cupcakes are made without pork, alcohol, or animal-derived gelatin! If you have dietary restrictions, you can explore using gluten-free cake mix or dairy-free butter alternatives.

How should I store my Reese’s Cupcakes after baking?

Store your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully—just wrap them well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Reese’s Cupcakes! They’re not just easy to make; they’re an indulgent treat that brings smiles all around. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!