These Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a sweet treat you’ll love! Each bite is filled with juicy peaches and creamy frosting that makes them super moist and delicious.
Let’s be real, who can resist a cupcake that tastes like summer? I enjoy them best with a cup of tea. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for this recipe, but if you need a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 replacement for the best results.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add a natural sweetness, but you can substitute them with canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed and drained). Be sure to adjust the sweetness if using canned fruit.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use salted butter. Just reduce the added salt in the recipe to keep things balanced.
Cream Cheese: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using a low-fat cream cheese, though it might not be as rich. Greek yogurt could work as a substitute for a tangy twist, but the texture will differ.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Cupcake Texture?
The texture of your cupcakes largely relies on how you mix your ingredients. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend more smoothly.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining flour with wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Folding in Peaches: Be gentle when folding in the diced peaches to avoid breaking them down too much. You want to keep those chunks intact for bursts of flavor!
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: It’s essential to let your cupcakes cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting and sogginess.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making fabulous Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes!
Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp honey
For the Honey Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: thin peach slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This deliciously sweet recipe will take around 15 minutes to prepare and about 20-22 minutes to bake. Plus, give yourself a little extra time for cooling to ensure your frosting doesn’t melt. In total, you should set aside about 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish for perfect cupcakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners so they’re ready to go.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will help aerate the flour and evenly distribute the baking powder. Set this bowl aside for now.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take about 3-5 minutes. It’s important for a great texture!
4. Add Eggs and Flavor:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and honey to add that delicious sweetness.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Now, alternately add the dry flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture. Start with about one-third of the flour, then mix in half the milk, followed by another third of the flour, the rest of the milk, and finally the last of the flour. Mix just until everything is blended.
6. Fold in the Peaches:
Carefully fold in the diced peaches with a spatula, making sure not to break them apart too much. You want those juicy bits to shine through in the cupcakes!
7. Fill the Muffin Pan:
Divide the batter evenly among the lined cupcake cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for rising.
8. Bake:
Pop the cupcakes into your preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
9. Cool the Cupcakes:
Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key so they don’t get soggy.
10. Make the Honey Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, and then mix in the honey and vanilla extract until fluffy and well combined.
11. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once your cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the honey cream cheese frosting. Feel free to be as creative as you like!
12. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to add a little decoration, top each cupcake with thin peach slices. Now, your Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are ready to enjoy!
Serve and delight in this charming treat. Perfect for summer gatherings or just because—you deserve it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain them well before adding to your batter. You might also want to reduce the amount of honey slightly since canned peaches can be sweeter.
How Should I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer them at room temperature, let them sit out for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting.
Can I Freeze These Cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes! Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Frost them after thawing for the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Frost My Cupcakes?
For a smooth finish, use a spatula or a piping bag with a star tip for swirls. If you want to add a rustic touch, you can also simply spread the frosting with a knife for a more casual look!
