Easy Buckeye Cupcakes Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Whether it’s in candies, cakes, or cookies, the rich, creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with the deep, slightly bitter notes of chocolate. Buckeye cupcakes take that beloved combination to the next level. Inspired by the famous Ohioan candy, these cupcakes bring you the same irresistible peanut butter and chocolate flavor, but in a soft, moist cupcake form.

While Buckeye balls (the candy) are an iconic treat, these cupcakes are easier to make and just as delicious. The cupcakes themselves are rich and tender, topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting, and then crowned with a piece of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for extra flavor and flair.

Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a special dessert for a holiday, or simply craving a decadent treat, Buckeye cupcakes are sure to impress.

What Makes Buckeye Cupcakes So Special?

The beauty of Buckeye cupcakes lies in their simplicity and the perfect balance between two classic flavors: chocolate and peanut butter. Let’s break down why these cupcakes are so irresistible:

• Soft, Moist Cupcakes: These cupcakes are made using a combination of cocoa powder, butter, and sour cream. This trio ensures a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Peanut Butter Frosting: The frosting, made from creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar, adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the chocolate cupcake base perfectly.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: Topping each cupcake with a mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fun and festive touch.

 

Key Ingredients for Buckeye Cupcakes

To make these decadent Buckeye cupcakes, you’ll need the following ingredients. The key is in choosing high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavor.

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour: The base for the cupcakes, providing structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the cupcakes rise properly and have a soft, light texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the cupcake.
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes without overpowering the flavor.
• 2 large eggs: These provide structure and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds a depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk: Helps to keep the cupcakes moist.
• 1/2 cup (40g) cocoa powder: The main source of chocolate flavor. Use a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for best results.
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream: This adds moisture and helps make the cupcakes tender.
• 1/3 cup (40g) very finely chopped peanuts: Finely chopped peanuts add a touch of peanut flavor without disrupting the texture.

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that gives the frosting its peanut flavor.
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and creates a smooth texture for the frosting.
• 4 cups (460g) powdered sugar: This makes the frosting thick and sweet.
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk: Helps achieve the desired consistency for spreading or piping the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the frosting.

For Decoration:

• Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: These are used to top each cupcake, bringing a fun, recognizable candy flavor to the cupcakes.

How to Make Buckeye Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. You might need a second pan for any extra batter, as this recipe yields about 18-20 cupcakes.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the wet mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Add the cocoa powder and sour cream, mixing gently until smooth.
6. Fold in the chopped peanuts. You should now have a smooth, thick batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
2. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
3. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

1. In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add heavy cream, a little at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency (thicker for piping, softer for spreading).
4. Mix in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. If desired, fold in extra finely chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips for texture.

Step 5: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, pipe or spread the peanut butter frosting onto each cupcake.
2. Top each cupcake with a mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for the finishing touch.

 

Decorating and Serving Your Buckeye Cupcakes

Once your Buckeye cupcakes are baked and frosted, it’s time to decorate and serve! Here are a few tips and creative ideas for presenting these delicious treats in a way that will wow your guests.

How to Decorate Buckeye Cupcakes

1. Frosting: The frosting for Buckeye cupcakes is key to their indulgent flavor. You can pipe it onto the cupcakes for a professional-looking swirl or spread it generously with a knife for a more rustic look.
   • If you’re piping the frosting, use a large star tip or Ateco 849 for a nice tall swirl. For a simpler look, a Wilton 1M tip also works beautifully.
   • Make sure the frosting is thick enough to hold its shape but not too stiff to pipe easily. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, a little more heavy cream will loosen it up.
2. Topping with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top are what really bring this cupcake to life.
   • Simply place one mini Reese’s peanut butter cup on top of each frosted cupcake. If you want to get fancy, you can cut the Reese’s cups in half or quarters to create a layered look.
3. Additional Garnishes: If you want to take the decoration a step further, sprinkle some finely chopped peanuts around the base of the frosting or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of decadence.
   • A small amount of sea salt sprinkled on top of the frosting can enhance the flavor contrast between the sweet peanut butter and the rich chocolate.

Serving Suggestions for Buckeye Cupcakes

These cupcakes are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are a few creative serving ideas:

• For Parties: Arrange the cupcakes on a platter with a few decorative peanut butter cups scattered around the base to make them look extra festive.
• With Ice Cream: Serve these Buckeye cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert combo.
• PB&J Style: For a fun twist, pair these cupcakes with a side of strawberry jam to mimic the flavors of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
• For Special Occasions: These cupcakes make an excellent dessert for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or any celebration that calls for something sweet and indulgent.

 

Tips for Making Perfect Buckeye Cupcakes

To ensure your Buckeye cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter

When mixing the batter, be careful not to overmix it. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until all the ingredients are combined for the lightest, fluffiest results.

2. Properly Measure Your Flour

Measuring your flour correctly is crucial. Use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cupcakes heavy and dry.

3. Room Temperature Ingredients

Ensure that your ingredients, such as butter, eggs, and sour cream, are at room temperature. This helps the ingredients blend together smoothly and results in a more even texture.

4. Don’t Skip the Sour Cream

Sour cream plays a vital role in keeping the cupcakes moist and tender. It helps balance out the richness of the peanut butter and adds a subtle tanginess to the overall flavor. Don’t substitute it with something else unless necessary.

5. Avoid Overbaking

Keep a close eye on the cupcakes while baking. Overbaking can dry them out and reduce their fluffiness. Start checking them around 18 minutes, and be sure to remove them from the oven once a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

6. Frost Once Cool

Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them. If you frost them while they are still warm, the frosting may melt and slide off. Patience here will pay off in the form of beautifully frosted cupcakes!

 

Storing and Freezing Buckeye Cupcakes

Buckeye cupcakes are just as delicious the next day, so you can make them ahead of time or store leftovers for later. Here’s how to store and freeze them:

Room Temperature Storage

• Store unfrosted cupcakes at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Store frosted cupcakes at room temperature for 1 day. If the frosting starts to soften due to the heat, refrigerating them is a good option, but it can change the texture slightly.

Refrigerating Leftovers

• If you need to store the cupcakes longer, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing Buckeye Cupcakes

• Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. After baking and cooling completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frosted cupcakes can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze them unfrosted and add the frosting after they have thawed. Place the frozen cupcakes in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
• If freezing cupcakes, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then decorate with fresh frosting when you’re ready to serve them.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Buckeye cupcakes. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

1. For a Gluten-Free Option

To make these cupcakes gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the brand of flour you’re using to ensure it has a good structure for cupcakes.

2. For a Vegan Version

For a vegan version of Buckeye cupcakes, replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk), and choose a vegan butter for both the cupcakes and frosting. Use a dairy-free peanut butter and make sure your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are vegan-friendly or replace them with a dairy-free chocolate.

3. Add Extra Peanut Butter Flavor

If you can’t get enough of peanut butter, you can add even more to the cupcakes by:

• Swirling some creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking.
• Adding extra peanut butter chips to the batter for a crunchy surprise.

4. Use Other Chocolate for Frosting

Instead of using semi-sweet chocolate in the frosting, try using dark chocolate for a more intense, less sweet flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier option.

 

Nutritional Facts for Buckeye Cupcakes

Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your favorite treats can help you make informed decisions, especially if you’re mindful of your diet. Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional content of each Buckeye cupcake (including frosting):

Per Cupcake (with frosting):

• Calories: 458
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 66mg
• Sodium: 278mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 52g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 38g
• Protein: 8g

These Buckeye cupcakes are rich in flavor, but they do pack quite a few calories and sugars. They are best enjoyed as an occasional treat or for special events.

FAQs On Buckeye Cupcakes Recipe 

What is buckeye cake?

Buckeye cake is a rich, moist dessert that mimics the flavor of the classic Buckeye candy. It typically features layers of chocolate cake and peanut butter filling, resembling the iconic combination of peanut butter and chocolate found in Buckeye treats.

What is buckeye dessert?

Buckeye dessert refers to a sweet treat made with peanut butter and chocolate, typically shaped into small balls and dipped in chocolate. It’s named after the Buckeye tree because the dessert resembles the nuts of the tree, which are round and have a shiny, dark brown exterior.

Which country is famous for cupcakes?

The United States is most famous for cupcakes, with the modern cupcake originating there. The U.S. popularized cupcakes through its dessert culture, and they are now a staple in bakeries across the country.

Why are buckeye cookies called buckeyes?

Buckeye cookies are named after the Buckeye tree because the finished cookie resembles the glossy brown and tan nuts of the tree. The name “Buckeye” refers to the tree’s seeds, which have a similar appearance to the candy and cookies.

 

Conclusion on Buckeye Cupcakes Recipe

In conclusion, Buckeye cupcakes are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the unbeatable combination of chocolate and peanut butter. They’re soft, moist, and decadent, with a creamy peanut butter frosting and a delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup on top. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they are sure to be a crowd favorite.

These cupcakes are easy to make and versatile, and you can play around with different variations like adding more peanut butter or using dark chocolate. With simple, straightforward instructions, they’ll become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

So, if you’re ready to impress your friends and family with a treat they’ll never forget, it’s time to bake up a batch of Buckeye cupcakes. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate will have everyone coming back for seconds!