Name: Banana Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup gluten-free 1:1 baking flour (Recommended: Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 or King Arthur Measure for Measure.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly.); 1/2 cup cocoa powder (Adds rich chocolate flavor.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Helps the cupcakes rise.); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Works with the acid in the bananas for leavening.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Enhances the flavor of the cupcakes.); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup whole or 2% milk (Adds moisture to the batter.); 1/2 cup vegetable oil (Keeps the cupcakes tender.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Adds depth of flavor.); 1 cup boiling water (Helps to bloom the cocoa powder for richer flavor.); 1 very ripe banana (mashed); 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature); 1 cup creamy peanut butter (provides a rich, nutty flavor); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 2 cups powdered sugar (sweetens and thickens the frosting.); 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed, to adjust the consistency of the frosting.); 2-4 tablespoons milk (used to reach desired frosting consistency.); to taste Mini chocolate chips, chocolate curls, chocolate sprinkles, etc. (for decorating)

These Banana Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting are a crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the delightful sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are not only delicious but also gluten-free, ensuring that everyone can indulge in their chocolaty goodness. The creamy peanut butter frosting adds a luscious finish that will have your friends and family coming back for more!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works beautifully because it marries the natural sweetness of bananas with the deep flavor of cocoa powder, resulting in moist and flavorful cupcakes. The use of gluten-free baking flour ensures that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy these treats without sacrificing taste. The peanut butter frosting, enriched with cream cheese, provides a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, making each bite irresistible.

The Ingredient Lineup

1 cup gluten-free 1:1 baking flour – Recommended: Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 or King Arthur Measure for Measure.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly.
1/2 cup cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cupcakes rise.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acid in the bananas for leavening.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the cupcakes.
2 large eggs, room temperature – Binds the ingredients together.
1/2 cup whole or 2% milk – Adds moisture to the batter.
1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cupcakes tender.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor.
1 cup boiling water – Helps to bloom the cocoa powder for richer flavor.
1 very ripe banana, mashed – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature – Adds creaminess to the frosting.
1-2 tablespoons milk, if needed – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting.
1 cup creamy peanut butter – Provides a rich, nutty flavor in the frosting.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature – Adds richness to the frosting.
2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
2-4 tablespoons milk – Used to reach the desired frosting consistency.
Mini chocolate chips, chocolate curls, chocolate sprinkles, etc. for decorating – Optional toppings for added flair.

Gear Checklist

Mixing bowls – For mixing the cupcake batter and frosting.
Whisk or electric mixer – For combining ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Rubber spatula – For folding in ingredients and scraping bowls clean.
Cupcake tin and liners – To bake and present your adorable cupcakes.
Cooling rack – To cool the cupcakes completely before frosting.

How to Prepare Banana Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free baking flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and mashed banana. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Boiling Water

Slowly stir in the boiling water. This step is crucial as it helps to create a moist cupcake. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfectly fine!

Step 6: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Using a ladle or scoop, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for rising.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cupcakes

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and mix until combined.

Step 10: Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, beating until fully incorporated. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 11: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the peanut butter frosting. Feel free to get creative with your decorating using mini chocolate chips, chocolate curls, or sprinkles!

Seasonal Serving Ideas

Top with crushed candy canes for a festive holiday treat.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing summer twist.
Decorate with seasonal sprinkles to match any holiday theme.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cupcakes will be. Make sure to mash it well for a smooth batter. If you prefer a less sweet frosting, consider reducing the amount of powdered sugar.

For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can substitute half of the cocoa powder with dark cocoa powder.
These cupcakes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftovers, store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and frost as desired before serving.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can use any gluten-free 1:1 baking flour, but be sure it’s a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results.

How do I know when my cupcakes are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done.

Can I make these cupcakes vegan?

To make these cupcakes vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs, use a plant-based milk, and vegan butter for the frosting.

How do I make my frosting fluffier?

Beat the frosting longer after adding the powdered sugar, and ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Hungry for More?

If you loved these Banana Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting, be sure to check out our other delicious recipes like moist chocolate cake, decadent brownies, or fluffy vanilla cupcakes. Each recipe is crafted to delight your taste buds and bring joy to your kitchen. Baking is all about love and creativity, so keep experimenting and sharing your delicious results!

Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with these Banana Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting. They are sure to impress everyone at your next gathering, and you’ll love how easy they are to make! Enjoy your sweet baking adventure!