Gooey Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes

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Gooey Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes

Introduction

Gooey Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes are the ultimate treat for peanut butter lovers! These moist chocolate cupcakes hide a warm, gooey peanut butter center that oozes out with every bite. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, these cupcakes offer a delightful contrast between soft cake and molten filling. Perfect for dessert lovers, these cupcakes are ideal for parties, special occasions, or just as a comforting indulgence.

History of Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes

The concept of lava cakes originated in the 1980s when French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten accidentally undercooked a chocolate cake, discovering the delightful molten center. Over time, this idea evolved, and peanut butter was introduced as a variation, giving birth to peanut butter lava cupcakes. Since peanut butter and chocolate have always been a classic combination, this dessert quickly gained popularity worldwide.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup whole milk

½ cup hot water

For the Gooey Peanut Butter Filling:

½ cup creamy peanut butter

¼ cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping (Optional):

½ cup heavy cream

½ cup dark chocolate (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Lava Filling

  1. In a bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
  2. Spoon the mixture onto a parchment-lined plate, creating small scoops (about 1 teaspoon each).
  3. Freeze the peanut butter scoops for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk.
  6. Stir in hot water slowly to create a smooth batter.

Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes

  1. Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter.
  2. Place a frozen peanut butter scoop in the center of each cupcake.
  3. Cover with more batter until ¾ full.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

  1. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the tops are set.
  2. Let the cupcakes cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional)

  1. Heat heavy cream until hot (but not boiling).
  2. Pour over chopped chocolate and stir until smooth.
  3. Drizzle over cooled cupcakes for extra richness.

Benefits of Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes

  1. Rich in Protein: Peanut butter provides protein, making these cupcakes more filling.
  2. Mood Booster: Chocolate contains antioxidants that enhance mood.
  3. Energy-Packed: The combination of carbs, fats, and protein offers a quick energy boost.
  4. Satisfying Texture: The contrast of soft cake with gooey filling creates a delightful eating experience.

Formation & Chemistry of Lava Center

The gooey lava effect is achieved by freezing peanut butter before baking. As the cupcakes bake, the outer batter sets while the peanut butter center remains warm and molten. This technique ensures the perfect lava flow when you bite into the cupcake.

Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake, Approximate)

Calories: 280

Carbohydrates: 32g

Protein: 5g

Fat: 15g

Sugar: 18g

Conclusion

Gooey Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes are the perfect dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. With their molten peanut butter center and rich chocolate base, they offer an indulgent experience with every bite. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet craving, these cupcakes will leave everyone wanting more.

Lovers of Peanut Butter Lava Cupcakes

These cupcakes are adored by:

Chocolate Lovers – Those who can’t resist a rich, fudgy treat.

Peanut Butter Enthusiasts – Fans of nutty, creamy textures.

Dessert Explorers – People who love creative, indulgent sweets.

Bakers & Home Cooks – Those who enjoy experimenting with unique recipes.

Would you like any variations or customizations for your recipe?

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