Imagine biting into a soft, moist cupcake that’s bursting with the sweetness of peaches and topped with a creamy, tangy frosting. That’s exactly what you get with these easy honey peach cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. They’re the perfect blend of summer flavors and comforting textures, making them ideal for family gatherings, birthdays, or simply a weekend treat. The best part? These cupcakes are as easy to make as they are delicious!
Why You’ll Love Honey Peach Cupcakes
There’s something magical about the combination of peaches and honey. The natural sweetness of peaches pairs perfectly with the floral notes of honey, creating a flavor profile that feels indulgent yet refreshing. Adding cream cheese frosting takes these cupcakes to the next level, balancing the sweetness with a delightful tang.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create these scrumptious cupcakes:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Unsalted butter, softened | 1/2 cup |
Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
Large eggs | 2 |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Buttermilk | 1/2 cup |
Peach preserves | 1 cup |
Cream cheese, softened | 1/2 cup |
Powdered sugar | 1/4 cup |
Milk | 1 tablespoon |
Fresh peaches, diced | 1/2 cup |
Honey | 2 tablespoons |
Sugar crystals (for garnish) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- This step helps create the airy texture you want in a cupcake.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Alternately add the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture.
- Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Assemble the Cupcakes
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter.
- Add a spoonful of peach preserves to the center of each.
- Cover with more batter until the liners are three-quarters full.
7. Bake the Cupcakes
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Prepare the Frosting
- In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Refrigerate the frosting if it becomes too soft, making it easier to pipe or spread later.
9. Decorate the Cupcakes
- Frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting.
- Top with diced fresh peaches and drizzle with honey for a sweet finish.
- Sprinkle sugar crystals for added texture and sparkle.
Tips for Perfect Honey Peach Cupcakes
- Use Ripe Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches give these cupcakes a natural sweetness and juicy texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Cool Completely: Always let the cupcakes cool fully before frosting to avoid a melty mess.
Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 240 |
Fat | 11g |
Carbohydrates | 31g |
Protein | 3g |
Sugar | 22g |
Why Peaches and Honey Are a Winning Combination
Peaches are naturally sweet and juicy, making them a perfect match for honey’s floral and earthy notes. Together, they create a balance of flavors that’s both light and indulgent. This pairing works beautifully in desserts, especially when combined with rich cream cheese frosting.
Flavor Variations to Try
1. Peach-Almond Cupcakes
- Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract.
- Top the frosting with slivered almonds for added crunch.
2. Spiced Peach Cupcakes
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Drizzle the frosting with spiced honey for a warm flavor twist.
3. Gluten-Free Option
- Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
Perfect Pairings for Honey Peach Cupcakes
- Iced Tea: Serve with peach or honey-flavored iced tea for a refreshing combo.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a luxurious treat.
- Sparkling Wine: Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a sophisticated dessert experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, but drain them thoroughly to avoid adding extra moisture to the batter.
2. How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.
4. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes! Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost them when ready to serve.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.
Conclusion: A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Easy honey peach cupcakes with cream cheese frosting are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of fresh, sweet flavors and homemade goodness. Whether you’re baking for a summer picnic, a birthday party, or a quiet evening at home, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the irresistible combination of peaches, honey, and cream cheese today. Happy baking!
PrintEasy Honey Peach Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
Description
Experience the taste of summer with these Easy Honey Peach Cupcakes! Soft, moist, and bursting with the sweetness of peaches, each cupcake is topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat. Perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or weekend indulgence, these cupcakes are as simple to make as they are delightful to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 1/2 cup fresh peaches, diced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Sugar crystals (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Assemble the Cupcakes
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter.
- Add a spoonful of peach preserves to the center of each liner and cover with more batter until three-quarters full.
7. Bake the Cupcakes
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
8. Prepare the Frosting
- In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate if the frosting becomes too soft.
9. Decorate the Cupcakes
- Frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting.
- Top with diced peaches, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle sugar crystals for a sparkling finish.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American