These delightful cupcakes are a sweet treat with a soft and creamy texture. Topped with honey and fresh peaches, they are perfect for summer gatherings or just a cozy afternoon at home!
Making these cupcakes feels like a warm hug from nature. They are easy to whip up, and your kitchen will smell amazing. I love adding a little extra peach on top—who can resist that? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches bring sweetness and moisture to these cupcakes. If you can’t find them, you can use canned peaches, just make sure they are well-drained and chopped. You could also try with nectarines for a similar flavor!
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese works best for that rich, creamy frosting. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still offers a lovely creamy texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal because it allows you to control the saltiness of the recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with a dairy-free spread or coconut oil for a different flavor, but it may change the texture slightly.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with the cupcake’s structure. Brown sugar could be a nice substitute for a deeper flavor, but it might make the cupcakes a bit denser.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Frosting?
Making the cream cheese frosting is simple but essential for that luscious topping! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with softened cream cheese and butter for a smoother blend. Leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you begin mixing.
- Beat the cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually, mixing well each time. This prevents a sugar cloud and helps achieve a smooth texture.
- Finally, incorporate the honey and vanilla extract, blending until combined. This should be spreadable but still hold its shape!
Feeling adventurous? You can add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of lemon juice for an extra flavor boost!
Creamy 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 salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and finely chopped
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh peach slices
- Drizzle of honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-30 minutes for preparation and around 18-22 minutes for baking. Don’t forget to let your cupcakes cool completely before frosting them. Total time, including cooling, is about 1 hour. It’s quick and worth every moment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your 12-cup muffin tin ready by lining it with cupcake liners. This makes cleanup easier and keeps your cupcakes from sticking!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps combine the ingredients evenly and ensures your cupcakes rise well. Set this bowl aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a light and airy cupcake!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that delicious aroma and flavor.
5. Combine Mixtures:
Now, alternately add the flour mixture and the milk to your butter mixture. Start and end with the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
6. Fold in the Peaches:
Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh peaches. This is where the sweet, fruity goodness comes in!
7. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. This leaves room for the cupcakes to rise perfectly!
8. Bake the Cupcakes:
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean. If you see any wet batter, give them a few more minutes.
9. Cool the Cupcakes:
Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
10. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is nice and smooth.
11. Add the Sweetness:
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Then, mix in the honey and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The frosting should be creamy and spreadable!
12. Frost Your Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are cool, generously frost each one with the cream cheese frosting. You can use a knife or a piping bag for a little extra flair!
13. Garnish and Serve:
Top each cupcake with a slice of fresh peach and drizzle a bit of honey on top for that beautiful finishing touch. They’re now ready to impress your friends and family!
14. Enjoy!
Serve these delightful cupcakes to everyone and enjoy the creamy, sweet, and fresh flavors. They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQs About Creamy Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before chopping. This will help prevent your cupcakes from becoming soggy.
How Can I Make These Cupcakes Gluten-Free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has xantham gum included, or add about 1/2 tsp to help with the structure of the cupcakes!
Can I Prepare the Cupcakes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve to keep the frosting fresh and the peaches vibrant!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them at room temperature, just let them sit out for about 30 minutes before serving.
