These Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a sweet treat that will make your taste buds dance! With creamy frosting and juicy peach chunks, each bite is a little slice of heaven.
Making cupcakes is always a fun time! I love how the honey adds sweetness, and the cream cheese gives a delicious tang. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself. Who can resist? 🍑🧁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches add great flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or even diced mango for a fun twist!
Cream Cheese: For the frosting, use full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works too, though it may be less creamy.
Butter: Unsalted butter is typically best, but if you only have salted, just reduce any added salt in the recipe.
How Do You Get Creamy Frosting Without Lumps?
Getting that smooth, creamy cream cheese frosting can be tricky. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Ensure both your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause lumps.
- Beat them together thoroughly before adding powdered sugar. This step makes all the difference!
- Add the powdered sugar gradually. This prevents it from flying everywhere and helps create a smoother blend.
Remember, patience is key! Take your time with the mixing to achieve that dreamy frosting.
Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp honey
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: small peach slices or a drizzle of honey for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 18-22 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting them, which can take another 30 minutes or so. Altogether, plan for about 1 hour to make and cool your delicious treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. This will make cleanup easy and keep the cupcakes from sticking!
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This process adds air into the batter for fluffy cupcakes!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Now, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture to keep the batter smooth. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
6. Fold in Peaches:
Gently fold in the diced fresh peaches and 2 tablespoons of honey into the batter. This will give your cupcakes that delicious fruity flavor!
7. Fill Cupcake Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the lined cupcake cups, filling each about 2/3 full. This helps ensure they have enough room to rise without spilling over.
8. Bake:
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. You can tell they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cupcakes:
Once they are done, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be your delicious frosting!
11. Add Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, which should take a few minutes.
12. Mix in Honey and Vanilla:
Finally, mix in the honey and vanilla extract until all ingredients are well incorporated. This frosting is rich and sweet—perfect for your cupcakes!
13. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost them with the honey cream cheese frosting. You can use a piping bag for a fancy touch or simply spread it on with a spatula.
14. Garnish (Optional):
If you like, you can add a small peach slice or a drizzle of honey on top of each cupcake for a beautiful finish!
15. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at room temperature and watch them disappear!
FAQ for Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peaches! Just be sure to drain them well and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the batter. This prevents excess moisture, which could affect the cupcake’s texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer them at room temperature, they can be kept in a cool place for 1-2 days, but the frosting may soften.
Can I Freeze These Cupcakes?
Absolutely! You can freeze un-frosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before frosting them.
How Can I Make the Frosting Sweeter or Less Sweet?
If you prefer sweeter frosting, you can add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired sweetness. Conversely, for a less sweet frosting, reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly, but keep in mind that this may affect the frosting’s consistency.
