Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and banana with these scrumptious cupcakes.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-03T10:10:29.825Z

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes are a perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and the creamy goodness of peanut butter. A delightful treat for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Moist banana base that adds natural sweetness
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Flavor Combination

Chocolate, peanut butter, and banana are three ingredients that harmonize beautifully, creating a rich and indulgent flavor profile in every bite. The deep, luscious chocolate combines seamlessly with the creamy, nutty notes of peanut butter, while the banana adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes. This trifecta of flavors ensures that each cupcake is not only delicious but also comforting, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

These cupcakes are perfect for chocolate lovers who crave something a bit different. The addition of banana not only enhances the sweetness but also provides a delightful texture that you won’t find in standard chocolate cupcakes. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

Easy Baking for Everyone

One of the best things about these Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes is how simple they are to make. The recipe requires basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it an accessible option for bakers of all skill levels. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you can achieve bakery-quality results with minimal effort.

The step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, ensuring that you never feel lost. From mixing the dry ingredients to whipping up the luscious peanut butter frosting, each step is straightforward and easy to follow. This makes it a great baking project for families or anyone looking to enjoy a fun day in the kitchen.

Versatile and Customizable

These cupcakes are not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey surprise or sprinkling chopped peanuts on top of the frosting for added crunch. You can also swap out the peanut butter for your favorite nut butter to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Additionally, if you want to make these cupcakes more festive, consider using colorful sprinkles or themed decorations for holidays and celebrations. The adaptability of this recipe allows you to create a unique treat tailored to any occasion, ensuring that they will be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Peanut Butter Frosting

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, mashed banana, vanilla extract, and buttermilk.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Fill Cupcake Liners

Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with peanut butter frosting.

Enjoy your delicious cupcakes!

Storing Your Cupcakes

Once your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes are frosted, you may wonder how to store them for optimal freshness. To keep them at their best, store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you have leftover cupcakes that you won't eat within a week, consider freezing them. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Perfect Pairings

These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. The rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors are complemented beautifully by the bitterness of coffee, making it an excellent choice for brunch or an afternoon treat. If you're serving these cupcakes at a gathering, consider offering a variety of beverages, including milkshakes or even a light dessert wine for an adult twist.

For an added indulgence, serve the cupcakes alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy ice cream will balance the richness of the cupcakes, creating a delightful dessert experience. This combination is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and elevate your dessert game.

Why Bake with Bananas?

Using bananas in baking not only enhances flavor but also contributes to moisture and texture in your baked goods. The natural sugars in ripe bananas add sweetness without the need for excessive sugar, making them a healthier option for dessert. Additionally, bananas provide essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C, which can help make your treat a bit more nutritious.

Ripe bananas are usually better for baking as they are sweeter and easier to mash. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or brown for the best results. Incorporating bananas into your cupcakes not only adds flavor but also gives them a unique twist that sets them apart from traditional recipes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but it may change the texture slightly. Make sure it's well-stirred.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can use regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.