Name: Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups (207g) cake flour (spooned & leveled); 3/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 3 large egg whites, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; Optional: seeds scraped from 1/2 of a vanilla bean; 1/2 cup (120g) full-fat sour cream; 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk; About 1/4 cup your favorite jelly (any flavor!); 5 Tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter; 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar; 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: crushed peanuts for topping

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 39 reviews

If you have a soft spot for nostalgic flavors with a twist, then the Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These cupcakes are a divine marriage of fluffy vanilla cake, a surprise jammy center, and a luxuriously smooth peanut butter frosting that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s a creative spin that elevates the timeless peanut butter and jelly combo into a party-worthy treat, perfect for any gathering or simply a cozy day at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of six plain cupcakes in a dark muffin tray, each in a bright pink cupcake liner. The cupcakes have one layer, which is light golden yellow with a soft and smooth texture, slightly domed at the top. The muffin tray has a worn, matte finish and small crumbs around some cupcake edges. The background features a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for ingredients that might already be sitting in your pantry and fridge, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting cupcakes with just the right texture, flavor, and charm. Let’s walk through them and why they’re essential.

1 and 3/4 cups (207g) cake flour: Provides a tender, light crumb perfect for soft cupcakes.
3/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works with toppings like sour cream to add lift and slight tenderness.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a delicate crumb.
3 large egg whites, at room temperature: Lightens the batter without the heaviness of yolks.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Infuses warm, fragrant notes throughout the cupcake.
Optional: seeds scraped from 1/2 of a vanilla bean: Upgrades the vanilla flavor and adds tiny specks for visual appeal.
1/2 cup (120g) full-fat sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps cupcakes tender.
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk: Combines with sour cream to create the perfect batter consistency.
About 1/4 cup your favorite jelly: The juicy, sweet surprise inside each cupcake—choose a flavor you love!
5 Tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, softened: For the frosting, providing creaminess and structure.
1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter: The star of the frosting, rich and smooth.
1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting for perfect piping.
1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream: Lightens and adds luscious texture to the frosting.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the peanut butter’s nutty flavor in the frosting.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the peanut butter notes.
Optional: crushed peanuts for topping: Adds crunch and a finishing touch that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 12-count muffin pan with cupcake liners, plus an additional 2 liners in another pan since this recipe makes about 14 cupcakes. This sets you up perfectly for baking and prevents any cupcake sticking or overflow mishaps.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl, whisking them together well to ensure even distribution. This simple step is crucial because these dry ingredients are the backbone of your cupcake’s structure and texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on high speed until it turns smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Then add the sugar and continue beating for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to keep things even.

Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla

Beat in the egg whites, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean seeds if you’re using them. Mix on medium-high speed until everything is well combined. This step helps build a nice emulsion, giving your cupcakes a tender, airy crumb.

Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients

Beat in the sour cream to add moisture and a hint of tang. Then, slowly add the dry ingredients on low speed until just incorporated—a critical step to avoid overmixing, which can make cupcakes dense. Follow by slowly pouring in the milk while mixing continues gently to create a smooth yet slightly thick batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full to avoid spills, then bake for 19-22 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you’re making mini cupcakes (about 30), reduce the time to 11-13 minutes. Let the cupcakes cool completely — this is key before you add the jelly filling and frosting.

Step 7: Fill with Jelly

Using a sharp knife, carefully carve out a small pocket approximately 3/4 inch deep in the cupcake center. Spoon about one teaspoon of your favorite jelly inside—and then gently replace the top piece you removed, sealing your jammy surprise inside. If you want some extra guidance, there are helpful tutorials on how to fill cupcakes that make this step easy and mess-free.

Step 8: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

Beat the softened butter on medium speed with a whisk attachment until creamy. Add the peanut butter and beat on medium-high until fully combined. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Start on low speed for 20 seconds to combine, then increase to high speed and beat for about 1 minute until the frosting is smooth and fluffy—perfect for piping.

Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes

Using a piping bag fitted with a Wilton #12 tip or any tip you love, frost each cupcake generously. The creamy peanut butter frosting on top of a soft vanilla cupcake with a rich jelly center is pure magic and guaranteed to wow anyone lucky enough to try it.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes Recipe

The image shows a cupcake split into two pieces revealing its inside layers, placed in a white cupcake liner with a pink hue. The cupcake's base layer is light yellow with a soft, crumbly texture. Inside the cupcake, there is a visible spread of dark red jam in the center, contrasting with the soft cake around it. The top layer is a thick, creamy light brown frosting with a slightly rough texture, piled generously on the cupcake halves. The cupcake sits on a white marbled surface with some small nut pieces scattered nearby. Other whole cupcakes with the same frosting and white liners with pink hue are partially visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add an extra special touch by sprinkling crushed peanuts on top of the frosting for that delightful crunch and a bit of a rustic look. You could also add a small dollop of jelly on top for visual appeal and a punch of fruity sweetness right at first bite. Fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar also make gorgeous garnishes.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes alongside a simple cold glass of milk or a cup of hot tea or coffee to balance the sweetness and richness. For parties, pair them with fresh fruit platters or a cheese board that includes nutty cheeses like Gouda or cheddar, which complements the peanut butter flavor beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, display these cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand with colorful cupcake liners. You can also wrap individual cupcakes in cellophane tied with a ribbon for favors or arrange them in a decorative cupcake box as a thoughtful homemade gift. Don’t hesitate to experiment with mini cupcake versions for bite-sized delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator, but be aware that the texture may firm up slightly due to the frosting. Just bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best experience.

Freezing

You can freeze unfilled cupcakes for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. After thawing, fill and frost as usual. If the cupcakes are already frosted, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container to avoid frost damage. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To revive the softness in frozen or refrigerated cupcakes, warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating, which can cause the frosting to melt, but this quick step makes the cupcakes taste fresh and delicious once again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of jelly in this Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any flavor of jelly or jam you love, from classic strawberry to more adventurous flavors like raspberry or grape. Each will give the cupcakes its own unique twist.

Is it possible to make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, but you will need to swap the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or similar ingredients to maintain the texture.

Can I substitute creamy peanut butter with chunky peanut butter for the frosting?

You can, but keep in mind chunky peanut butter will add texture to the frosting thanks to the peanut bits, making each bite even crunchier and fun.

What is the best way to fill the cupcakes with jelly without making a mess?

Using a sharp knife or a cupcake corer works best to remove a neat portion of the cupcake’s center. Spoon the jelly carefully, then gently place back the removed piece to seal the filling inside. Patience and a gentle hand make this step easy.

How long will these cupcakes stay fresh once frosted?

They are best enjoyed within 1-2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. After that, the cupcake may start to dry out or the frosting can change texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a unique but comforting treat, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes Recipe will not disappoint. It’s such a fun way to enjoy a childhood classic with a grown-up twist. Once you try them, I’m sure you’ll find yourself wanting to whip up this recipe again and again—so go ahead, bake a batch and share the joy!