Brownie Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting

Fudgy brownie cupcakes topped with creamy peanut butter frosting.

Ingredients

Cupcakes

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)

Peanut Butter Frosting

• 5 Tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• chocolate sprinkles

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
2. Make the cupcakes: Melt butter in the microwave in a large microwave safe bowl. Mix in the sugar until smooth and microwave for about 1 minute. Stir the mixture until smooth again. Whisk in the vanilla and eggs. In a separate bowl, mix together the salt, baking powder, cocoa powder, and flour. Slowly add to the wet ingredients and stir until completely combined.
3. Fill the muffin tins about 2/3 full. Bake in the prepared muffin tin for about 8-10 minutes (mine took a little under 9 minutes). Allow to cool completely.
4. Make the frosting: Using an electric handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat softened butter on medium speed for 1 minute until completely smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and beat on medium-high speed until the two are combined. Add the confectioners’ sugar, cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on low speed for about 20 seconds, then gradually increase to high speed. Beat on high for 1 minute. Frost cooled cupcakes. Top with chocolate sprinkles, if desired