Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake bursting with juicy peaches, luscious cream cheese, and a hint of golden honey. That’s exactly what you get with these Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes—a dreamy, summery treat you’ll crave all year long! They’re everything you love about peaches and cream, wrapped up in a perfectly portioned, irresistible cupcake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Real Peaches: Every bite features juicy bits of peach for fresh, sun-kissed flavor in every cupcake.
- Dreamy Honey-Cream Cheese Filling: Sweet honey melds with tangy cream cheese for a surprise center that’s ultra luscious and unique.
- Soft, Moist Crumb: The buttermilk batter keeps each cake incredibly tender—never dry or heavy.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re serving at a brunch, shower, or just need a pick-me-up treat, these cupcakes deliver a wow-factor every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, honest ingredients are what make Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes so unforgettable. Each one plays a starring role—from the ripe peaches and creamy cheese to a drizzle of honey that ties it all together with mellow sweetness and gorgeous aroma.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of a soft, fluffy crumb—be sure to spoon and level for the best texture.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These ensure a beautiful rise and cake-like tenderness.
- Salt: Just a pinch sharpens and balances the cupcake’s overall flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Creamed with sugar, it adds richness and that classic homemade taste.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes without overpowering the peach and honey notes.
- Eggs: Create structure and help bind everything together for moist, lofty cakes.
- Vanilla Extract: A background note that enhances all the flavors—never skip it!
- Buttermilk: Makes for an unbelievably tender crumb. If you’re out, regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice works in a pinch.
- Diced Peaches: Fresh, frozen, or canned—all work! Just be sure to drain well and chop finely so every bite pops with real peach.
- Cream Cheese: The heart of both the filling and frosting—use full-fat for the dreamiest texture.
- Honey: Brings mellow sweetness and a floral note that transforms cream cheese from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Powdered Sugar: Whips into a silky frosting, perfectly sweet but not too much.
- Optional Garnishes (Peach Slices & Honey Drizzle): For that wow-worthy finish, they add color, extra flavor, and instant charm.
Variations
One of the joys of Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes is how easily you can switch things up! Whether you’re working around allergies, have other fruit on hand, or just feeling creative, here are easy twists to make this recipe your own.
- Berry Twist: Swap out peaches for finely diced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a totally different burst of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—these cupcakes turn out just as delicious and fluffy.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter or filling for a zippy, citrusy brightness that pairs beautifully with peaches and honey.
- Nut Crunch: Sprinkle a few chopped toasted pecans or almonds on top for a little extra crunch and a sophisticated finish.
How to Make Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Whisk the Dry Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt so everything is well combined and you don’t get any sneaky lumps in your batter.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This step helps give the cupcakes that signature soft, cake-like texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to make sure your batter stays silky and smooth. Don’t forget to add that splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth and depth of flavor!
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry—Then Fold in Peaches
Alternate adding your whisked dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, mixing gently after each addition. Once just combined, set aside the mixer and fold in those beautiful diced peaches—the less you stir, the fluffier your cupcakes will be.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Scoop the batter evenly into your cupcake liners (they should be about two-thirds full), then bake for 18–20 minutes until a toothpick emerges clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely—this is key for perfect filling and frosting later!
Step 6: Make the Honey Peach Cream Cheese Filling
Beat softened cream cheese with honey until smooth, then stir in the finely chopped peaches. This rich, lightly sweet filling is the heart of every Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcake and makes each bite extra special.
Step 7: Core and Fill the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are cool, carefully use a paring knife or cupcake corer to make a small hole in the center of each. Spoon or pipe the honey peach cream cheese mixture into each center, being generous—this is what surprises everyone!
Step 8: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the remaining cream cheese and butter until super smooth, then slowly add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and honey to taste. The result is a perfectly fluffy, billowy cream cheese frosting that’s balanced—not too sweet and not too tart.
Step 9: Frost and Garnish
Pipe or swirl frosting onto each filled cupcake. If you like, garnish with thin peach slices and a little honey drizzle for the prettiest finish. Now it’s time to wow your lucky tasters with the very best Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes!
Pro Tips for Making Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
- Super Soft Butter and Cream Cheese: For the fluffiest cakes and silkiest filling, be sure all your dairy (especially butter and cream cheese) is fully softened before mixing.
- Moisture Magic with Peaches: If your peaches are extra juicy, pat them dry before folding into the batter—this prevents soggy cupcakes and keeps the crumb perfect.
- No Overmixing Zone: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cakes dense instead of light and airy.
- Fill, Then Frost: Always cool cupcakes completely before filling or frosting—otherwise, your cream cheese treats will melt and run!
How to Serve Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Garnishes
Add a beautiful slice of fresh peach on top with a drizzle of golden honey. Not only does it shine up your cupcakes, but it hints at the flavors nestled inside—and the touch of honey adds a dazzling, sticky-sweet finish!
Side Dishes
Serve these cupcakes alongside a fruit salad with a few sprigs of mint, or offer sparkling iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing balance. They also pair beautifully with coffee or a crisp glass of Prosecco for a more grown-up touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes on a tiered cake stand for dessert buffets or parties, or place each cupcake in a decorative liner with a cocktail pick holding a mini peach wedge for special occasions. You could even serve them picnic-style, in a basket lined with a bright summery napkin!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream cheese filling and frosting keep beautifully after chilling—just let them come to room temperature for the best texture before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted, unfilled cupcakes for up to 2 months—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap. For best results, add the honey peach cream cheese filling and frosting after thawing so the texture stays smooth and dreamy.
Reheating
No need to reheat—these cupcakes love to be served at room temperature. If you’ve chilled them, let them sit out for about 20–30 minutes so the frosting softens, the filling is creamy, and the flavor is at its peak.
FAQs
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Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned or frozen peaches work perfectly for Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes. Just be sure to drain them well and pat dry, so you don’t add extra moisture to the batter or filling.
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My frosting is runny—how do I fix it?
If your cream cheese frosting is too soft, try adding extra powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time. You can also pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before piping to help it firm up.
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What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, simply add ½ teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes—that’s all you need for that signature tender cupcake crumb!
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Can I make Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! The cupcakes (unfilled and unfrosted) can be baked a day ahead, then filled and frosted just before serving for the freshest taste and softest texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fresh, crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes like a hug from summer itself, give these Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes a whirl. They’re pure joy from the first little bite, and I can’t wait for you to share them with your favorite people. Happy baking!
PrintHoney Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these delicious Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes. Moist peach-infused cupcakes filled with a luscious honey-peach cream cheese center, topped with a creamy frosting – a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice)
- 1/2 cup diced peaches (fresh, frozen, or canned; drained well)
For the Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup finely chopped peaches
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons honey, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Thin peach slices
- Honey drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcakes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in diced peaches. Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each two-thirds full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling: Mix softened cream cheese, honey, and finely chopped peaches until smooth.
- Fill the Cupcakes: Once cupcakes are cool, create a small hole in the center of each using a knife or cupcake corer. Fill each hole with the honey-peach cream cheese mixture.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well. Mix in vanilla and honey to taste.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Frost each cupcake using a piping bag or spatula.
- Garnish (Optional): Top with peach slices and a drizzle of honey for extra elegance.
Notes
- Ensure the diced peaches are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cupcakes.
- Adjust honey in the frosting to suit your sweetness preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg