Homemade Reese's Cupcake Surprise

Name: Homemade Reese's Cupcake Surprise
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup boiling water; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to these Homemade Reese's Cupcake Surprises! Each bite delivers a mouthwatering combination of rich chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter filling, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. What I love most about this recipe is how fun and rewarding it is to make—especially when you surprise your friends with an unexpected peanut buttery center! Whether for a special occasion or just a treat for myself, these cupcakes never fail to impress.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-08T17:14:35.175Z

When I first attempted making these cupcakes, I knew I wanted a decadent treat that echoed the flavors of the iconic Reese's. After experimenting with different ratios of peanut butter to chocolate cake, I finally achieved a perfectly balanced moisture level and a rich flavor. What truly sets this recipe apart is how the peanut butter filling surprises you when you bite in!

To truly elevate these cupcakes, I learned the importance of not overbaking the cake. Keeping them fluffy and moist is key to creating that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. I also recommend letting them cool completely before frosting; this way, the chocolate ganache stays glossy and beautiful!

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Indulgent chocolate cake combined with creamy peanut butter goodness
Surprising filling that delights with every bite
Perfect for sharing or satisfying your own chocolate cravings

      

The Importance of the Peanut Butter Filling

The peanut butter filling is the heart of these cupcakes, providing a creamy, indulgent center that complements the rich chocolate cake. When mixing the filling, be sure to beat it until fully smooth to ensure it can be easily piped into the cupcakes. If you prefer a slightly firmer filling, you can refrigerate the mixture for about 15 minutes before using it; this can help it hold its shape better when piped into the cupcakes.

To achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor, I recommend using creamy peanut butter over crunchy. The latter can disrupt the smoothness of the filling, making it harder to pipe and deliver that delightful texture contrast. If you're looking for a healthier option, feel free to substitute natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may be more runny; you may want to add a touch more powdered sugar to achieve the desired consistency.

Crafting the Ganache Just Right

Making ganache is all about precision and patience. As you heat the heavy cream, watch for tiny bubbles forming around the edge of the saucepan without allowing it to reach a full boil, which can cause it to break. Once your cream is hot, pour it over the chocolate chips and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting time is crucial; it allows the chocolate to melt gently, resulting in a smooth, glossy texture when stirred.

If you find your ganache too thick after cooling, you can add a splash of warm cream to loosen it up. Conversely, if it's too thin, you might need to chill it briefly in the refrigerator, stirring frequently until it thickens to the right coating consistency. Remember, the goal is that beautiful drizzled finish on your cupcakes, so achieving this balance is vital for presentation and flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Homemade Reese's Cupcake Surprise

For the Chocolate Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup boiling water

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Chocolate Cupcakes

Mix until just combined, then stir in boiling water. Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes. Let cool completely.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and well combined. Once the cupcakes are cool, use a small knife or a cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake, filling the hole with the peanut butter mixture.

Make the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth. Let cool slightly before drizzling over filled cupcakes.

Garnish and Serve

Once the ganache has thickened slightly, drizzle it over the cupcakes. For an added touch, you can sprinkle crushed peanuts on top. Serve and enjoy your decadent homemade Reese's treats!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the ganache before it sets. Also, ensure you allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Homemade Reese's Cupcake Surprises store well, making them a great treat to prepare in advance. Once assembled, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store them for longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they'll stay fresh for up to a week. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

If you plan to make these cupcakes ahead of time, consider baking the chocolate cupcakes one day and filling them with peanut butter filling the next. This will help maintain the freshness of the cupcakes without them becoming too soggy. You can also prepare the ganache a day in advance; just reheat it gently before drizzling to restore its pourable consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These cupcakes are delightful on their own, but there are fun ways to elevate the presentation. Consider garnishing with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or crushed peanuts for added flavor and texture. For an even richer experience, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside to balance the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors—a perfect pairing for chocolate lovers.

If you're adventurous, try mixing in different ingredients! Substituting half of the cocoa powder with instant coffee granules can elevate the chocolate flavor, while adding a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter filling can enhance its sweetness. You could even experiment with different nut butters, such as almond or cashew butter, for a unique twist on the classic Reese's flavor combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the filling?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your filling and make it even more delicious.

→ How can I tell when the cupcakes are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet batter), they are ready!

→ Can I prepare the cupcakes in advance?

Yes, the cupcakes can be baked a day early. Store them in an airtight container without frosting at room temperature until ready to serve.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Any leftover cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.