18 Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting Recipes Decadent

Posted on March 2, 2025

Calling all peanut butter lovers! Whether you’re frosting a cake, cupcakes, or just sneaking a spoonful (we won’t tell), these 18 creamy peanut butter frosting recipes are pure decadence. From classic fluffy swirls to rich chocolate-infused delights, there’s a dreamy topping here for every dessert. Get ready to take your baking game to the next level—your sweet tooth will thank you!

Classic Peanut Butter Frosting

Classic Peanut Butter Frosting

This creamy, dreamy peanut butter frosting is a no-fuss crowd-pleaser—perfect for slathering on cakes, cupcakes, or even eating straight off the spoon.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup peanut butter and ½ cup softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, mixing on low until combined. Scrape the bowl as needed.
  3. Pour in 1 tsp vanilla extract and ¼ tsp salt, then drizzle in 2 tbsp milk. Beat on medium-high for 1–2 minutes until light and spreadable. Add the remaining 1 tbsp milk if needed for a softer consistency.

The secret? The salt balances the sweetness and amplifies that addictive peanut flavor—making it way more than just sugary fluff.

Tip: For extra richness, swap the milk for heavy cream or brown the butter before mixing!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting

Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting

This rich, velvety frosting is a dream come true for peanut butter and chocolate lovers—spread it on cakes, cupcakes, or just eat it by the spoonful!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural style)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix on low until combined, then increase speed to medium-high and beat for another 2 minutes until fluffy.
  3. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tbsp of heavy cream at a time until spreadable. For a thicker consistency, chill for 15 minutes before using.

The magic here? The cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor without overpowering the peanut butter, creating a perfectly balanced swirl of nutty and decadent.

Tip: For extra texture, fold in ¼ cup chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips after mixing.

Vegan Peanut Butter Frosting

Vegan Peanut Butter Frosting

This dreamy, dairy-free frosting is so rich and creamy, you’ll forget it’s vegan—perfect for slathering on cakes, cupcakes, or even eating straight from the bowl!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
  • 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened (like Earth Balance)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2–3 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the vegan butter and peanut butter with a hand mixer (or stand mixer) on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Mix on low until combined, then increase speed to medium and beat for 1 minute.
  3. Drizzle in 2 tbsp almond milk and beat for another 2 minutes until light and spreadable. If needed, add 1 more tbsp almond milk to reach your desired consistency.

The secret to this frosting’s velvety texture? Whipping it just long enough to incorporate air—no weird ingredients required! It holds its shape beautifully for piping but stays soft enough to melt in your mouth.

Tip: For a deeper peanut flavor, toast your peanut butter lightly in a skillet before mixing (cool completely first).

Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Frosting

Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Frosting

Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Frosting

This dreamy frosting combines the tang of cream cheese with rich peanut butter for a spread that’ll upgrade any cake or cupcake—no fancy skills required!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, peanut butter, and butter with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Scrape down the sides as needed.
  2. Add the vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp salt, mixing just to combine.
  3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. After each addition, scrape the bowl and increase speed to medium for 10 seconds to fluff.
  4. Once all sugar is added, beat on medium-high for 1 minute until ultra-creamy and light. If frosting is too thick, add 1 tbsp milk; if too thin, chill for 15 minutes before rewhipping.

The secret here? The salt amplifies the peanut butter’s nuttiness while keeping the sweetness in check—perfect for slathering on chocolate cakes or sandwiching between cookies.

Tip: For extra depth, use roasted peanut butter or swirl in a spoonful of jam before frosting.

Fluffy Peanut Butter Frosting

Fluffy Peanut Butter Frosting

This dreamy frosting is like a cloud of peanut butter bliss—light, creamy, and perfect for slathering on cakes or cupcakes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fully combined (about 2 minutes).
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
  3. Pour in the milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 3–4 minutes until ultra-fluffy, stopping to scrape the bowl halfway.

The secret? Whipping the frosting long enough gives it a mousse-like texture that holds its shape but melts in your mouth.

Tip: For a richer flavor, use browned butter instead of softened butter—just cool it completely before mixing.

Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Frosting

Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Frosting

This dreamy frosting is like a hug for your cupcakes—rich, creamy, and just sweet enough with a caramel-like depth from brown sugar. Perfect for slathering on chocolate or banana cakes!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural style)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3–4 tbsp whole milk
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, and brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy (about 2 minutes). Scrape down the bowl.
  2. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix on low until combined, then drizzle in 3 tbsp milk. Beat on medium-high for 1–2 minutes until silky. If too thick, add remaining 1 tbsp milk.
  3. Use immediately to frost cooled cakes, or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days (let soften at room temperature before re-whipping).

The brown sugar adds a subtle molasses warmth that makes this frosting stand out—no one will guess the secret ingredient! Tip: For extra texture, fold in 1/4 cup crushed peanuts after mixing.

Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

This dreamy frosting is the perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and rich peanut butter—ideal for slathering on cakes, cupcakes, or even eating straight from the bowl (no judgment!).

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1–2 tbsp whole milk (if needed)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Mix on low until fully combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
  3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, beat on medium-high for 1–2 minutes until light and creamy.
  4. If the frosting is too thick, add milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until spreadable. For stiffer frosting (e.g., piping), skip the milk.

The magic here? The salty-sweet contrast and ultra-smooth texture make it irresistible on chocolate cake or cinnamon rolls.

Tip: For extra peanut flavor, swap 1/4 cup powdered sugar with 2 tbsp peanut butter powder.

Maple Peanut Butter Frosting

Maple Peanut Butter Frosting

This dreamy frosting combines rich peanut butter and sweet maple syrup for a luscious topping that’ll elevate any cake or cupcake.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk (any kind), plus more if needed

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup peanut butter and 1/2 cup softened butter with an electric mixer on medium until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix until fully combined.
  3. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a cloud of sugar. Once incorporated, increase speed to medium and beat for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in 2 tbsp milk and beat for another 2 minutes until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk 1 tsp at a time.

The magic here? The maple syrup adds depth without overpowering the peanut butter—perfect for slathering on chocolate cakes or cinnamon-spiced cupcakes.

Tip: For extra maple flavor, drizzle a little extra syrup over frosted cupcakes just before serving.

Peanut Butter Honey Frosting

Peanut Butter Honey Frosting

This dreamy frosting is like a hug in bowl—creamy, just sweet enough, and perfect for slathering on cakes, cupcakes, or even eating straight off a spoon.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp whole milk (plus more if needed)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup peanut butter and ½ cup softened butter with an electric mixer on medium until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add ⅓ cup honey, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ¼ tsp salt. Mix until fully combined.
  3. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar on low speed, scraping the bowl as needed. Once incorporated, increase speed to medium and beat for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in 2 tbsp milk and mix until silky. If too thick, add more milk 1 tsp at a time until spreadable.

The honey adds a floral sweetness that balances the rich peanut butter, making this frosting taste homemade in the best way. Tip: For extra fluffiness, chill the bowl and beaters for 10 minutes before mixing.

Whipped Peanut Butter Frosting

Whipped Peanut Butter Frosting

Light, fluffy, and packed with peanut butter goodness, this frosting is a dream for cakes, cupcakes, or even spoonfuls straight from the bowl.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fully combined, about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Increase speed to medium-high and whip for 3–4 minutes until the frosting is light, airy, and holds soft peaks.

The secret to this frosting’s cloud-like texture? Whipping it just long enough to incorporate plenty of air—making it spreadable yet sturdy enough to pipe.

Tip: For extra richness, swap the heavy cream with an equal amount of whipped cream cheese, but reduce the powdered sugar to 1 1/2 cups.

Peanut Butter Mocha Frosting

Peanut Butter Mocha Frosting

This rich, velvety frosting combines the nutty depth of peanut butter with a hint of coffee—perfect for elevating chocolate cakes or brownies.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp instant espresso powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3–4 tbsp heavy cream
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and 1/4 cup unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium until smooth (about 2 minutes).
  2. Sift in 2 cups powdered sugar, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 tsp espresso powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low until combined.
  3. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract and 3 tbsp heavy cream. Beat on medium-high for 2 minutes until fluffy, scraping the bowl as needed. If too thick, add remaining 1 tbsp cream.

The espresso deepens the chocolate flavor without overpowering the peanut butter—ideal for frosting layer cakes or piping onto cupcakes.

Tip: For extra warmth, dissolve the espresso powder in 1/2 tsp hot water before adding.

Peanut Butter Coconut Frosting

Peanut Butter Coconut Frosting

This dreamy frosting combines creamy peanut butter with tropical coconut for a rich, velvety spread that’ll take your cakes and cupcakes to the next level.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup coconut milk (full-fat, well stirred)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing on low until incorporated. Scrape the bowl between additions.
  3. Pour in the coconut milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high for 1–2 minutes until fluffy and light, stopping to scrape the sides as needed.
  4. Use immediately to frost cooled cakes, or refrigerate for up to 3 days (let soften at room temperature for 30 minutes before re-whipping).

The coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and keeps this frosting luxuriously smooth—no gritty sugar texture here! It pairs perfectly with chocolate or banana cakes.

Tip: For extra coconut flavor, toast ¼ cup shredded coconut and sprinkle it over frosted cupcakes.

Peanut Butter Cinnamon Frosting

Peanut Butter Cinnamon Frosting

This dreamy frosting is the perfect balance of nutty richness and warm spice—ideal for slathering on cakes, cupcakes, or even sneaking a spoonful straight from the bowl.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 3–4 tbsp whole milk

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape the bowl as needed.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and 1 tsp cinnamon, then mix on medium speed for 1 minute.
  4. With the mixer running, drizzle in 3 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until the frosting is creamy and spreadable. Add the remaining 1 tbsp milk only if needed.

The cinnamon adds a cozy depth that makes this frosting stand out—it’s like a hug for your favorite baked goods!

Tip: For extra fluffiness, chill the frosting for 15 minutes before piping.

Peanut Butter Vanilla Frosting

Peanut Butter Vanilla Frosting

This creamy, dreamy frosting is the perfect balance of nutty and sweet—ideal for slathering on cakes, cupcakes, or even sneaking a spoonful straight from the bowl.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3–4 tbsp whole milk
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on low until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
  3. Add the vanilla extract, 3 tablespoons of milk, and sea salt. Beat on medium-high for 1 minute until light and airy. If the frosting is too thick, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of milk.
  4. Use immediately to frost cooled cakes, or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days (let soften at room temperature before re-whipping).

The secret here? The salt amplifies the peanut butter’s richness while keeping the sweetness in check—making it dangerously snackable.

Tip: For a fluffier texture, chill your mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes before starting.

Peanut Butter Espresso Frosting

Peanut Butter Espresso Frosting

This rich, creamy frosting blends nutty peanut butter with bold espresso for a decadent twist on classic buttercream—perfect for elevating cakes, cupcakes, or even spooning straight from the bowl (we won’t judge).

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tbsp strong brewed espresso, cooled
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl between additions.
  3. Pour in the espresso, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high for 1–2 minutes until the frosting is light, airy, and holds stiff peaks.
  4. Use immediately to frost cooled cakes, or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days (let soften at room temperature before re-whipping).

The espresso deepens the peanut butter’s richness without overpowering it, creating a sophisticated flavor that coffee lovers will adore. Tip: For extra texture, fold in 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts after mixing.

Peanut Butter Caramel Frosting

Peanut Butter Caramel Frosting

This dreamy frosting swirls together rich peanut butter and velvety caramel for a decadent topping that’ll steal the show on cakes, cupcakes, or even spooned straight from the bowl.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), plus 2 tbsp for drizzling
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat peanut butter and butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add ½ cup caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until fully combined.
  3. Gradually add powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, beating on low speed. Scrape the bowl as needed.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and beat on high for 1–2 minutes until light and spreadable. If too thick, add more cream 1 tsp at a time.
  5. Swirl in remaining 2 tbsp caramel sauce with a spatula for ribbons (don’t overmix!).

The magic here? The salt balances the sweetness while the caramel’s gooey streaks make every bite feel extra special.

Tip: Warm your caramel slightly for easier drizzling—just microwave for 10 seconds before swirling.

Peanut Butter Banana Frosting

Peanut Butter Banana Frosting

This dreamy frosting combines creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas for a spread that’s perfect on cakes, cupcakes, or even straight off the spoon!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1 medium ripe banana, mashed (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, mashed banana, and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fully combined (about 2 minutes).
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and pinch of salt, then mix on medium-high for 1 minute until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until spreadable.

The secret here? The banana adds natural sweetness and a velvety texture, so you can use less sugar than traditional frosting. It’s a win-win!

Tip: For extra banana flavor, toast thin banana slices and use them as a garnish on frosted cupcakes.

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Frosting

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Frosting

This dreamy frosting combines creamy peanut butter and fluffy marshmallow for a spread that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or even spooning straight from the bowl!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup marshmallow fluff
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp whole milk (plus more if needed)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/2 cup unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add 1 cup marshmallow fluff and 1 tsp vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar and a pinch of salt, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Scrape the bowl as needed.
  4. Pour in 2 tbsp whole milk and beat on medium-high for 1–2 minutes until light and spreadable. Add an extra splash of milk if too thick.

The frosting’s magic is in its texture—silky from the peanut butter, airy from the marshmallow, and just sweet enough to balance the richness.

Tip: For extra flavor, toast the marshmallow fluff lightly with a kitchen torch before mixing!

Conclusion

With 18 luscious peanut butter frosting recipes, there’s a perfect match for every dessert lover! Whether you crave classic richness or a creative twist, these recipes promise creamy, dreamy indulgence. Pick your favorite, whip up a batch, and let us know which one stole your heart. Don’t forget to share the love—pin this roundup for later and spread the peanut butter joy!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment