Name: Chocolate Cupcakes with Vegan Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz Vegan Cream Cheese; 2 tbsp + 1 tsp Peanut Butter; 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 1/4 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 1/2 cups Unbleached All-Purpose Flour; 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp Sugar; 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder; 1 tsp Baking Soda; Pinch of Salt; 1 cup Ice-Cold Water; 1/4 cup Unsweetened Applesauce; 1 tbsp White Vinegar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 225 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping treat that blends rich chocolate with a luscious, creamy frosting, you’ve come to the right place. This Chocolate Cupcakes with Vegan Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is the perfect balance of indulgence and plant-based goodness. Imagine biting into a moist, chocolatey cupcake topped with a velvety frosting that’s whipped with vegan cream cheese and just the right hint of peanut butter—plus, those extra chocolate chips for a delightful crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with layers of dry ingredients. The bottom layer is a fine white powder of sugar, topped by a slightly uneven heap of light brown cocoa powder that looks soft and powdery. A woman's hand is partly visible holding a wooden spoon scooping some cocoa from the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and simple background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and vibrant look. From the cocoa that gives the cupcakes their deep chocolate taste to the peanut butter in the frosting that adds that irresistible nutty richness, every item is essential for delicious results.

Unbleached All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cupcakes, providing structure and a tender crumb.
Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and balances the cocoa’s bitterness.
Cocoa Powder: Gives a rich chocolate flavor and dark color.
Baking Soda: Helps the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
Ice-Cold Water: Keeps the batter light and moist without adding fat.
Unsweetened Applesauce: A great vegan substitute that adds moisture and tenderness.
White Vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the cupcakes rise beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to both the cupcakes and frosting.
Vegan Cream Cheese: The star ingredient for the frosting’s creamy tanginess.
Peanut Butter: Brings nutty richness to the frosting and pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky smooth.
Chocolate Chips: Optional but highly recommended for extra texture and bursts of chocolate.

How to Make Chocolate Cupcakes with Vegan Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Start by combining vegan cream cheese and peanut butter in a mixing bowl. Using a hand or stand mixer, whip them together until smooth and fully blended. Slowly sift in powdered sugar, adding it in about one-third cup increments to ensure there are no lumps. Once the frosting is silky and thick, tuck it into the fridge to chill while you get the cupcakes ready – chilling helps it firm up for easier frosting later.

Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Line a 12-count cupcake pan with paper liners to keep things neat and make removal super easy. In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, stir together the wet ingredients: ice-cold water, unsweetened applesauce, white vinegar, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mix slowly into the dry, whisking gently but thoroughly to avoid any dry pockets or clumps. The batter should be smooth and pourable.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Portion the batter into each cupcake liner, filling about three-quarters full to leave room for rising. Place the tray in the center rack and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. To check doneness, gently insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean, they’re ready! Once baked, transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely. For best results, pop them in the freezer for 15 minutes before frosting – this makes the process much cleaner and easier.

Step 4: Frost and Decorate

Once your cupcakes have cooled and rested, it’s frosting time! Use a spatula or piping bag to spread or pipe the chilled peanut butter cream cheese frosting generously atop each cupcake. To add a finishing touch, sprinkle a few chocolate chips on the frosting for extra texture and that irresistible chocolate hit with every bite.

How to Serve Chocolate Cupcakes with Vegan Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

There are nine chocolate muffins in a gray metal muffin tray, each muffin sitting in a light blue paper liner. The muffins are dark brown with a slightly cracked top, showing a rough and moist texture. The muffin tray is resting on a light green kitchen towel with a soft, woven texture. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance the already fabulous frosting with a few tasteful additions. A light dusting of cocoa powder or crushed roasted peanuts sprinkled over the frosting can elevate the flavor and add a professional touch. For a pop of color, fresh berries or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate can make these cupcakes look like they belong in a bakery window.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes shine as a standalone treat, but pairing them with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a cup of rich, creamy coffee can create a truly memorable dessert experience. A fresh fruit salad with tangy citrus or juicy berries also complements the sweet, nutty flavors wonderfully, balancing richness with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond the classic approach? Arrange these cupcakes on a rustic wooden board or tiered cake stand to wow your guests. You can also place each cupcake in mini decorative cupcake wrappers or top with fun vegan edible flowers for parties or special occasions. The vibrant frosting color makes any presentation pop beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cupcakes stay moist and delicious when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the frosting from spoiling. They’re best enjoyed within three to four days for optimal taste and texture.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead of time, the cupcakes freeze well. Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready, thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving. For frosted cupcakes, freeze individually wrapped in plastic wrap, but be aware the frosting texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

To enjoy warm cupcakes, remove them from the refrigerator or freezer, unwrap if frozen, and let them come to room temperature. You can gently warm unfrosted cupcakes in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until just warm to the touch, but avoid heating frosted cupcakes to preserve their creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of vegan cream cheese for the frosting?

Yes, you can substitute regular cream cheese if you’re not committed to vegan ingredients, but keep in mind that the frosting will no longer be dairy-free. The flavor and texture will still be delicious!

Is it necessary to chill the frosting before applying it to the cupcakes?

Chilling the frosting helps it firm up and makes spreading or piping much easier. It prevents the frosting from sliding off the cupcakes and helps achieve those gorgeous, clean swirls.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum, but results may vary. The texture will be slightly different, so test a small batch first to see if you like the outcome.

How long do these cupcakes keep fresh at room temperature?

Because of the vegan cream cheese frosting, it’s best to refrigerate these cupcakes. At room temperature, they will be safe for about 4 hours, but refrigeration is recommended for longer storage to maintain freshness and food safety.

Can I substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter in the frosting?

Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter will give the frosting a different but equally tasty nutty flavor. Just make sure the nut butter is smooth for the best frosting texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly rewarding about making these Chocolate Cupcakes with Vegan Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe at home. The harmony of rich chocolate and creamy, nutty frosting hits all the right notes for dessert lovers everywhere. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these cupcakes bring warmth, joy, and a little bit of indulgence to your day. Dive into the recipe soon – I promise this delightful vegan treat will quickly become a beloved favorite!

Chocolate Cupcakes with Vegan Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Chocolate Cupcakes with Vegan Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe