Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups cake flour
- 1/3 cup whole milk
For the Filling
- 1 cup seedless jam (strawberry or your preferred flavor)
For the Frosting
- 2 to 2 ½ cups confectioners sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese at room temperature
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- About 1 tbsp milk if needed
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F or 175°C. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Preparing everything in advance ensures a smooth baking process and prevents the batter from sitting too long.
Measure out all your ingredients before beginning. This helps maintain accuracy and consistency, especially when baking where precision matters.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and vegetable oil. Whisk them together until the mixture looks smooth and slightly thickened.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter, which contributes to a light cupcake texture.
Stir in the vanilla extract. This enhances the flavor and gives the cupcakes a warm, sweet aroma.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition until just combined.
Avoid overmixing at this stage, as it can lead to dense cupcakes.
4. Fill and Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two thirds full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the filling and frosting.
5. Prepare the Jam Filling
While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare your jam. If the jam is too thick, you can stir it slightly to loosen it for easier filling.
Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake. Do not cut too deep, just enough to create space for the filling.
Fill each cavity with the seedless jam. This step adds a fruity surprise in every bite.
6. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, and peanut butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Add the confectioners sugar gradually, mixing well after each addition. This helps achieve a smooth consistency without lumps.
Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a small amount of milk to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Continue mixing until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
7. Frost the Cupcakes
Transfer the frosting into a piping bag fitted with your preferred tip. Pipe the frosting generously onto each cupcake.
You can also spread the frosting using a spatula if you prefer a more rustic look.
For an extra touch, you can drizzle a little jam on top or add a small dollop in the center of the frosting.
8. Final Touches and Serving
Once all cupcakes are frosted, they are ready to serve. The combination of soft cake, sweet jam, and creamy peanut butter frosting creates a balanced and indulgent dessert.
Serve them fresh or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best
- Prep Time: 8 Mins
- Cook Time: 20 Mins