This little batch of frosting will feel like a little hug in a bowl if you enjoy the warm sweetness of peanut butter. It’s simple to use, quick to prepare, and ideal for drizzling over cookies when you only want “a little something” or for frosting a small cake or a few cupcakes.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons of softened, unsalted butter
two tablespoons of smooth peanut butter
½ cup powdered sugar
milk in 1–2 teaspoon amounts (if necessary)
vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon
Use crunchy peanut butter for a textured finish as an alternative.
actions
1.In a little dish, cream together the butter and peanut butter until the combination is smooth and airy.
2.Mix in the powdered sugar in two additions, making sure it doesn’t explode all over.
3.To balance the flavor, mix in the vanilla.
4.Until you achieve the ideal frosting consistency—smooth but still capable of supporting soft peaks—add milk one teaspoon at a time.
5.To lighten it up a bit, beat for 20 to 30 seconds. Peanut butter frosting has a natural body, so don’t be alarmed if it seems thick.
Advice from the Chef
Make sure your butter is fully softened—not melted—for the creamiest consistency.
A little milk goes a long way if the frosting becomes overly thick.
Three cupcakes are liberally covered with this small batch, or four to six are covered lightly.
Variations
Chocolate Peanut Butter: For a mild chocolate flavor, add 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder.
Extra Nuts: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped peanuts for delicious crunch.
Salted Version: After piping, sprinkle a little bit of flaky sea salt on top.