Peanut Butter Icing Recipe for Cakes and Cupcakes

Peanut butter icing recipe is your ticket to a creamy, dreamy dessert experience that will leave your taste buds dancing! This delightful icing combines rich, velvety peanut butter with a hint of vanilla and a touch of powdered sugar, creating a luscious topping that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or even straight from the bowl! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a sweet treat that’s nutty, smooth, and utterly irresistible. Get ready to spread joy and sweetness with every bite of this delightful icing!

Table of Contents
peanut butter icing recipe

peanut butter icing recipe

Chef Jasper
Indulge in this creamy peanut butter icing recipe that's perfect for cakes and cupcakes! Easy to make and delicious!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl For mixing the ingredients.
  • 1 Electric Mixer To beat the ingredients together.

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter The star ingredient.
  • 1/2 cup softened butter For smoothness.

Sweetening Agent

  • 2 cups powdered sugar To sweeten the icing.
  • 1/4 cup milk To adjust consistency.
  • a pinch salt Enhances flavor.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  • Collect 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1/4 cup of milk. Don’t forget a pinch of salt!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and peanut butter. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

  • Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture. Mix on low speed to avoid a sugary cloud!

Step 4: Pour in the Milk

  • Add the milk a little at a time, mixing until you reach your desired consistency. It should be fluffy and spreadable!

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

  • Give your icing a taste! If you want it sweeter, add a bit more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.

Step 6: Spread and Enjoy!

  • Use your peanut butter icing to top cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Enjoy the creamy, nutty goodness!

Notes

Essential nutrition facts per serving:
CaloriesFatProteinCarbs
20010g3g25g
Keyword dessert, icing, peanut butter

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Icing Recipe

  • It’s creamy and dreamy—perfect for spreading on cakes or cupcakes!
  • Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up in no time.
  • Versatile enough to pair with chocolate, vanilla, or even banana desserts.
  • Rich peanut flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth without being overly sweet.
  • Perfect for special occasions or just a delightful treat at home!

Recipe Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Category:Dessert
Cuisine:American
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Dietary:Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Serves:8
Best Served:On cakes, cupcakes, or cookies

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Icing Recipe

  • Peanut Butter – the star of the icing, providing rich flavor and creamy texture.
  • Butter – adds smoothness and helps achieve the perfect consistency.
  • Powdered Sugar – sweetens the icing and gives it a fluffy texture.
  • Vanilla Extract – enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of sweetness.
  • Milk – adjusts the consistency to your desired thickness.
Ingredients for peanut butter icing displayed on a kitchen counter.
All the ingredients you need for a perfect peanut butter icing.

Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Peanut Butter Icing Recipe

Get ready to whip up some delicious peanut butter icing with these easy steps!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Collect 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1/4 cup of milk. Don’t forget a pinch of salt!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and peanut butter. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture. Mix on low speed to avoid a sugary cloud!

Step 4: Pour in the Milk

Add the milk a little at a time, mixing until you reach your desired consistency. It should be fluffy and spreadable!

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your icing a taste! If you want it sweeter, add a bit more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.

Step 6: Spread and Enjoy!

Use your peanut butter icing to top cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Enjoy the creamy, nutty goodness!

A step-by-step process of making peanut butter icing with ingredients displayed.
Step-by-step guide to making delicious peanut butter icing.

Pro Tips for Making the Peanut Butter Icing Recipe

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother blend.
  • For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
  • Experiment with different types of peanut butter for unique tastes.
  • For a fluffier icing, whip it longer until light and airy.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Icing Recipe

Enjoy your peanut butter icing in a variety of delightful ways!

  • Spread it generously on freshly baked chocolate cupcakes.
  • Use it as a dip for apple slices or pretzels.
  • Layer it between cookies for a delicious sandwich treat.
  • Top off a slice of banana bread for a sweet twist.
  • Drizzle it over pancakes or waffles for a breakfast treat.
  • Mix it into your favorite smoothie for a creamy texture.
  • Pair it with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
  • Use it to frost a rich chocolate cake for a flavor explosion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your peanut butter icing fresh:

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Refrigerate for up to one week.
  • Label with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

For long-term storage:

  • Place in a freezer-safe container.
  • Leave some space for expansion.
  • Freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

To enjoy your icing again:

  • Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Stir well before using.
  • If needed, microwave in short bursts for softness.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this icing?

Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works wonderfully in this icing recipe. Just make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily for the best texture.

How can I make this icing dairy-free?

You can easily make this icing dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter substitute, like coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. It will still taste delicious!

What can I use instead of powdered sugar?

If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar until it’s fine or use a sugar alternative like erythritol for a lower-calorie option.

How do I store leftover peanut butter icing?

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it again!