If you’re looking for a quick, irresistible way to elevate any dessert, this Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine a cloud of rich, creamy peanut butter whipped into a sweet, luscious frosting that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or even just a spoon (no judgment here!). With only a handful of simple ingredients and just a few minutes of your time, you’ll have a frosting that turns every treat into a showstopper. Whether you’re a peanut butter fanatic or just looking for something different, this recipe brings big flavor and big smiles in every bite.

Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of this Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe is how it transforms a few everyday kitchen staples into something truly special. Each ingredient plays a vital role, so let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why it matters.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): This creates a rich, creamy base and helps the frosting whip up light and fluffy—make sure it’s room temperature for best results.
Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): The star of the show! Choose a smooth, shelf-stable peanut butter for the silkiest texture.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the frosting and gives it that classic, cloud-like structure.
Heavy cream or milk (1/4 cup): This loosens and lightens the frosting so you can get it to just the right consistency—heavy cream makes it even richer.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic note that balances the peanut butter’s earthiness beautifully.
Pinch of salt (optional): A little salt can cut the sweetness and make the peanut flavor really pop—taste as you go!

How to Make Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter

Start by placing the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step is key for a light texture, so don’t rush it—let it get nice and fluffy!

Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar to the bowl, about 1/2 cup at a time. Mix on low speed after each addition to prevent a sugar cloud from taking over your kitchen. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, and keep mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Mix in Cream and Vanilla

Add in the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat the mixture on medium-high speed until the frosting becomes light, smooth, and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream or milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Adjust for Taste and Consistency

Give your frosting a taste. If it’s a bit too sweet for your liking, add a pinch of salt and beat again. For a stiffer frosting (ideal for piping or decorative work), use less liquid. For a softer, more spreadable texture, add a touch more cream or milk.

Step 5: Frost and Enjoy!

Use your homemade Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe immediately to top cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or anything else that could use a little peanut butter magic. If you’re not using it right away, check the storage tips below.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Dress up your frosted treats with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a few mini chocolate chips for extra flair. Even a dusting of cocoa powder or a swirl of caramel sauce can make your desserts look bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

This frosting pairs beautifully with classic vanilla or chocolate cakes, but don’t stop there! Try it on banana bread, brownies, or sandwiched between graham crackers for a nostalgic treat. Fresh berries on the side offer a lovely, tart contrast to the rich sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Pipe your Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe onto cupcakes using a star tip for a professional touch, or spread it thickly between cake layers for a rustic, homemade look. You can even use it as a dip for apple slices, pretzels, or cookies at your next party—watch it disappear!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any frosting left over (lucky you!), simply transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading or piping again—it’ll be as good as new.

Freezing

This Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe freezes surprisingly well. Place the frosting in a freezer-safe container, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface, and seal with a lid. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before using for best texture.

Reheating

If your frosting is a bit stiff after chilling or freezing, let it come to room temperature on the counter. For extra smoothness, beat it again with a mixer for a minute or so, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore its silky, spreadable texture.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular?

You can, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter tends to be thinner and oilier, which may affect the frosting’s texture. For the smoothest, fluffiest results, stick with conventional creamy peanut butter.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet frosting, you can reduce the powdered sugar slightly or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. Taste as you go and adjust to your liking.

Is this Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe suitable for piping?

Absolutely! For stiffer, pipeable frosting, use a bit less cream or milk. If it starts to soften as you pipe, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up again before continuing.

Can I make this frosting dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The result will still be creamy and delicious, though the flavor may vary slightly.

What desserts pair best with this frosting?

This Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s heavenly on chocolate cake, but also shines on banana bread, brownies, cookies, and even as a filling for sandwich cookies or whoopie pies.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to give this Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe a try—it’s pure joy in a bowl! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this frosting is guaranteed to make your desserts unforgettable. Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch; your sweet tooth will thank you!

Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

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4.5 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This creamy and delicious peanut butter frosting recipe is perfect for adding a rich, nutty flavor to your cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Made with simple ingredients like unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla, this no-cook frosting is quick to prepare and provides a smooth, fluffy texture that’s easy to spread or pipe.

Ingredients

Scale

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (optional)

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Instructions

Combine Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring even blending of flavors and texture.
Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until fully combined to prevent a powdery mess and to achieve the right consistency.
Mix in Vanilla and Cream: Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Adjust Consistency: Add more cream or milk, a tablespoon at a time, as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency, whether for spreading or piping.
Season to Taste: Taste the frosting and add a pinch of salt if it tastes too sweet to balance the flavors.
Use or Store: Use the frosting immediately to frost your cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. If storing, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days and bring back to room temperature before using.

Notes

This recipe yields about 2 cups of frosting, enough for 12–16 cupcakes or a two-layer 8-inch cake.
For a stiffer consistency suitable for piping decorations, reduce the amount of milk or cream.
Store leftover frosting in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; let it come to room temperature and re-whip before using to restore texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Frosting
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American