These Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a sweet delight! With fluffy cupcakes packed with peach flavor and creamy frosting, they are perfect for any occasion.
I love the golden color and fruity taste—it’s like a little sunny bite! Don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for seconds (or thirds!). Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: These add a wonderful fruitiness to the cupcakes. If peaches are out of season, try using canned peaches in juice or another fruit like apricots or nectarines for a similar taste.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Greek yogurt provides moisture and tanginess. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream. Both keep the cupcakes moist and delicious!
Cream Cheese: This is crucial for the frosting’s creamy texture. If you can’t find cream cheese, mascarpone cheese is a great alternative. Just be aware that it may have a slightly different taste.
Honey: This adds sweetness and a floral note. If you prefer, you can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar, though the flavor will vary slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Cupcakes Are Light and Fluffy?
Getting the right texture in your cupcakes is key! Here are some steps to help you succeed:
- **Cream Butter and Sugar Well:** This should take about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. This traps air, helping the cupcakes rise.
- **Don’t Overmix:** When adding flour or yogurt, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
- **Fold in Peaches Gently:** Use a spatula to incorporate the peaches carefully. You want them evenly distributed, not squished!
- **Check for Doneness:** Use a toothpick to test. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!
Following these tips will help you bake fluffy and enjoyable cupcakes every time!
Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and finely chopped
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
- Thin peach slices or small peach chunks
- Drizzle of honey
Time Needed:
This delightful recipe will take approximately 30 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes to bake. After baking, allow an additional time for cooling, which should take about 20-30 minutes. So, you can expect to spend around 1 hour total before you can enjoy your delicious cupcakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Muffin Tin:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This will make it easy to remove your cupcakes once baked!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed for great rising.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Beat them until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will give your cupcakes a nice texture!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor!
5. Combine Yogurt and Honey:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) with the honey, mixing until smooth. This combination provides moisture and adds sweetness to your cupcakes.
6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the yogurt mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix!
7. Fold in the Peaches:
Gently fold in the finely chopped peaches with a spatula, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Fill the Muffin Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
9. Bake the Cupcakes:
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean.
10. Cool the Cupcakes:
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the honey and vanilla extract, mixing to combine.
12. Add Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy, adjusting the consistency if needed.
13. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag or a spatula, spreading the creamy frosting on top generously.
14. Add Optional Garnishes:
If you like, garnish your cupcakes with thin peach slices, small peach chunks, and a light drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation!
15. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes are now ready! Serve them up and enjoy the delicious flavors of peach and cream cheese. They are perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can substitute canned peaches for fresh ones! Just make sure to drain them well and chop them into small pieces to avoid excess moisture in your batter.
How Do I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Can I Freeze These Cupcakes?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled cupcakes (without frosting) in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and then frost as desired.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese in the Frosting?
If you’re looking for an alternative to cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese for a smooth texture. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cream cheese or even whipped coconut cream, although the flavor will change slightly.
