These Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a fruity delight! The mix of sweet peaches and creamy cheese makes every bite feel like a dreamy summer day.
Honestly, who could resist that fluffy cream cheese frosting? I love topping them with a little extra honey for a sweet finish—it’s like a hug in cupcake form! 🧁💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the cupcakes. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter substitute, which works well in baking.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the star here! If they’re out of season, canned peaches can be used, just make sure to drain them well or use frozen peaches after thawing.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives a rich texture. If you want a lighter option, you can try Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still offers creaminess.
Honey: Local honey adds a lovely flavor and sweetness. If you have dietary restrictions, maple syrup can be a great substitute for a different yet delicious taste.
What’s the Best Way to Fold in the Peaches?
Folding in the chopped peaches gently is crucial to avoid overmixing the batter. Here’s how to do it right:
- After combining the wet and dry ingredients, use a rubber spatula to cut down through the center of the batter.
- Then, scoop from the bottom and gently lift the batter over the peaches. Rotate the bowl as you go.
- Continue until the peaches are just mixed in. This keeps your cupcakes light and fluffy!
Remember, the more you mix, the denser your cupcakes can become. Keep it light and easy!
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting Smooth?
Creating a creamy, smooth frosting is simple with these tips:
- Start with room temperature cream cheese and butter. This helps everything combine easily and prevents lumps.
- Beat them together on medium speed until smooth before adding any sugar. This step is key for a creamy texture!
- Add powdered sugar gradually to avoid a sugar cloud in your kitchen.
Mix until fluffy and light—this makes the frosting lovely to spread on the cooled cupcakes!
How to Make Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh peach, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Thin peach slices or small peach chunks
- Drizzle of honey (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes to prepare and 18-22 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll need some time for the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them. In total, expect to spend around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes for everything. You’ll love how easy and scrumptious these cupcakes turn out!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners so they don’t stick when baking!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent. Set this mix aside for later.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. It should look pale and creamy!
4. Add Eggs and Flavor:
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and honey, combining everything until it’s smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, you’ll alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk to the butter mixture. Start with the flour and end with the flour. Mix gently just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix!
6. Add the Peaches:
Gently fold in the finely chopped peaches into the batter. This adds a delicious fruity flavor!
7. Fill the Cupcake Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. This gives them room to rise when baking!
8. Bake the Cupcakes:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
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 is important so the frosting doesn’t melt off!
10. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the cupcakes cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This usually takes a couple of minutes.
11. Add the Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until it’s combined. Then increase the speed to medium-high and beat until fluffy and light—this is key for a great frosting!
12. Finish the Frosting:
Mix in the honey and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Taste it—you might just want to eat it by the spoonful!
13. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, generously frost each one with the creamy frosting. Feel free to use a piping bag for a pretty presentation!
14. Garnish with Fresh Peaches:
Add a thin slice or small chunk of fresh peach on top of each cupcake for that charming touch. A light drizzle of honey is an optional bonus!
15. Serve and Enjoy:
These Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are now ready to be devoured! Serve them up at your next gathering, and watch them vanish. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If using canned peaches, be sure to drain them well before chopping and adding to the batter. For frozen peaches, thaw them completely, pat dry, and then chop before using. This helps avoid excess moisture in the cupcakes.
How Do I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can freeze them (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re completely cooled and wrapped tightly!
Can I Use a Different Frosting Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, you could use whipped cream or a buttercream frosting instead. You can also experiment with flavored frostings, like a peach-flavored or vanilla buttercream!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cupcakes?
If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cupcake batter by up to ¼ cup. Keep in mind that this might alter the final texture slightly, but the addition of fresh peaches will still provide natural sweetness!
