Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

If you adore the irresistible combination of sweet and salty, Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting is bound to become your next baking obsession. This luscious frosting delivers a fluffy, ultra-smooth texture that’s rich with nutty flavor, a subtle kiss of vanilla, and just the right hint of salt to make every bite pop. Whether you’re dressing up chocolate cupcakes, layering banana cake, or simply sneaking spoonfuls straight from the bowl (no judgment here!), this versatile frosting is an absolute game-changer. With pantry staples and just 10 minutes, you’ll be ready to turn any homemade treat into bakery-level magic.

Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even the most remarkable dishes often rely on the simplest, most honest ingredients, and this Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting is no exception. Each component is chosen for the delicious role it plays, from the smoothness of the peanut butter to the dreamy finish from a splash of cream. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you shouldn’t skip a single one!

  • Creamy peanut butter: The star here, it adds rich, nutty flavor and that silky base we crave in a frosting.
  • Unsalted butter (softened): This brings a creamy, mellow sweetness that balances the peanut butter and gives the frosting structure and fluff.
  • Powdered sugar: Helps thicken the frosting and adds a light, cloudlike sweetness—with a texture perfect for spreading or piping.
  • Heavy cream: A splash at a time makes the frosting unbelievably smooth and adds body without thinning it too much.
  • Vanilla extract: Just a touch to warm up the flavors, enhancing everything with a bakery-cupcake aroma.
  • Pinch of salt: The secret hero! It sharpens the peanut flavor and cuts the sweetness so every bite stays interesting.

How to Make Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting

Step 1: Whip Together the Peanut Butter and Butter

Start by adding your creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter to a large mixing bowl. Grab a hand mixer (or your stand mixer if you’re baking in bulk), and beat on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and impossibly fluffy. This not only combines the fats evenly, but also sets up that dreamy texture that makes Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting so irresistible.

Step 2: Gradually Incorporate the Powdered Sugar

Add the powdered sugar a cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Doing this slowly is key for two reasons: it allows the sugar to dissolve right into the buttery base and keeps things from getting messy (no one wants a powdered sugar explosion!). The frosting will thicken and look lighter—exactly what you want.

Step 3: Mix in Vanilla and Salt

Pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle in that pinch of salt. Beat these in just until everything’s blended—this duo is tiny but mighty, making the flavors pop and adding a touch of bakery-style depth to your Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting.

Step 4: Add Heavy Cream, Then Adjust

With the mixer running on low, slowly drizzle in your heavy cream. Beat until the frosting is fluffy, smooth, and easily spreadable. If it looks a little stiff or hard to spread, add more cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach your perfect consistency. The frosting should hold soft peaks but still be simple to swirl on a cupcake or cake.

How to Serve Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting

Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

If you want to make your Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting extra special, try sprinkling finely chopped salted peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder right on top. These simple touches add irresistible crunch and color, making every slice or cupcake a show-stopper—like something straight from an artisan bakery!

Side Dishes

Pair your frosted creations with a cold glass of milk, dark coffee, or a tall iced latte to balance the sweetness and enhance those nutty notes. If you’re setting out a dessert spread, a platter of fresh-cut fruit (think strawberries or banana slices) is a perfect, refreshing complement to the richness of Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to play! Swirl generous layers on a two-tier chocolate cake, pipe fluffy peaks onto cupcakes, or use it to sandwich homemade cookies together for a peanut butter “whoopie pie.” For parties, try dipping graham crackers in the frosting or serving it in a small bowl as a fruit dip—the possibilities are endless and always crowd-pleasing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting holds beautifully in the fridge. Just scoop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes, then give it a quick whip to return that perfect, airy texture.

Freezing

This frosting freezes surprisingly well! Place it in a freezer-safe container (or zip bag), press out extra air, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and whip with a touch more cream if needed. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for busy bakers or party planners.

Reheating

While you won’t need to “reheat” this no-cook frosting, you may find it firms up in the fridge or freezer. To bring back its creaminess, simply let it come to room temperature, then beat with a hand mixer. If it still feels stiff, a splash of cream will loosen it up to its original glory.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting?

Natural peanut butter is delicious, but it can separate or create a runnier frosting that’s hard to spread. For the fluffiest, most stable results, stick with standard creamy peanut butter brands that don’t separate.

How do I make this frosting less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet touch, try reducing the powdered sugar by 1/2 cup at a time, tasting as you go. You can also add an extra pinch of salt or a splash more heavy cream to balance the flavor without sacrificing that creamy spreadability.

Is Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting suitable for piping detailed designs?

Absolutely! For a stiffer, more pipeable texture, add a bit less cream and beat the frosting until it holds its shape. It pipes beautifully onto cupcakes, cookies, or as borders on cakes.

What cakes or cupcakes go best with this frosting?

Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting is a natural match for rich chocolate layers, banana cakes, or even vanilla cupcakes. It also pairs brilliantly with brownies or sandwiched between peanut butter cookies for double the fun.

Can I make Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap in a vegan butter and use coconut cream or any non-dairy milk for similar results. The flavor will shift slightly depending on the substitutions, but you’ll still end up with a deliciously creamy, dairy-free frosting.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting recipe is a true treat for both new and seasoned bakers—you’ll be amazed how simple ingredients transform into something so decadent and versatile. Whether you’re layering a birthday cake or just looking for a new way to top your weeknight cupcakes, don’t be surprised if it becomes a kitchen staple. Give it a try; your sweet tooth (and your lucky taste testers) will thank you!

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Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Frosts one 9-inch layer cake or 24 cupcakes 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this delectable Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting. Perfect for topping cakes or cupcakes, this easy-to-make frosting is a peanut butter lover’s dream.


Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Frosting:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream, plus more as needed
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Beat Peanut Butter and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add Powdered Sugar: Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Mix in Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and salt.
  4. Add Heavy Cream: Slowly add the heavy cream and continue beating until the frosting reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.
  5. Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream 1 tablespoon at a time until desired texture is achieved.

Notes

  • This frosting pairs beautifully with chocolate or banana cake.
  • For a stiffer texture ideal for piping, reduce the cream slightly.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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