Ina Garten Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting is rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth — perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, brownies, or cookies. With its classic balance of sweet and salty flavors, this frosting adds a luxurious touch to any dessert. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply want to enhance a batch of cupcakes, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results right from your kitchen.

What is Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting?

Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting is a luscious buttercream made from creamy peanut butter, butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and a touch of cream. It’s velvety smooth, easy to spread, and packed with nutty flavor. The frosting has the perfect balance — not too sweet, not too thick — making it ideal for layering or piping on your favorite desserts.

Other Ina Garten Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten White Chicken Chili
• Ina Garten Peanut Butter Cookies
• Ina Garten Peanut Butter Brownies
• Ina Garten Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting

• Rich and creamy texture – Smooth, spreadable, and full of peanut flavor.
• Simple ingredients – Made with just a few pantry staples.
• Versatile use – Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and even cookies.
• Quick to make – Comes together in less than 10 minutes.
• Customizable – You can adjust sweetness and thickness easily.
• Perfect pairing – Complements chocolate, vanilla, and banana desserts beautifully.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural or oily)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• A pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Peanut Butter Frosting

Step 1 – Beat butter and peanut butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.

Step 2 – Add confectioners’ sugar

Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar while mixing on low speed. This prevents the sugar from puffing out and ensures a smooth texture.

Step 3 – Add vanilla and cream

Pour in the vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium speed until the frosting becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4 – Adjust consistency

If the frosting is too thick, add another tablespoon of cream or milk. If too thin, mix in a little more sugar until you reach the desired texture.

Step 5 – Use or store

Use immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes, or store covered in the refrigerator until needed.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting

• Chocolate cake – The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
• Banana cupcakes – Adds nutty sweetness to soft banana-flavored cakes.
• Vanilla sponge – Enhances simple vanilla cakes with a creamy twist.
• Brownies – A thick layer of frosting makes fudgy brownies even better.
• Cookies – Spread it between cookies for quick peanut butter sandwiches.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting

• Use creamy peanut butter – Avoid natural or chunky types that can cause separation.
• Beat thoroughly – Whip long enough for a fluffy, aerated texture.
• Sift the sugar – Prevents lumps and keeps frosting silky smooth.
• Add cream slowly – Adjust gradually for perfect consistency.
• Don’t overbeat – Stop once it’s smooth and fluffy to avoid air bubbles.
• Taste test – Add a pinch of salt if it feels overly sweet.
• Room temperature butter – Ensures easy mixing and smooth results.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Peanut Butter Frosting

• Chocolate peanut butter frosting – Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a rich twist.
• Maple flavor – Replace part of the cream with maple syrup for sweetness with depth.
• Honey glaze version – Add 1 tablespoon of honey for natural flavor.
• Crunchy texture – Mix in crushed peanuts for a bit of crunch.
• Espresso touch – Add a teaspoon of espresso powder for mocha notes.
• Salted caramel swirl – Drizzle caramel through the frosting for a gourmet look.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Peanut Butter Frosting

• Room temperature – Use within 1–2 days if your kitchen is cool.
• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer – Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
• Before reuse – Rewhip briefly to restore the fluffy texture after chilling.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting

• Microwave method – Warm for 5–10 seconds, then stir to soften.
• Room temperature method – Let sit for 30–45 minutes and stir before use.
• Avoid overheating – Too much heat can cause separation or melting.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 90mg

FAQs

How do I make Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting light and fluffy?

To make light and fluffy peanut butter frosting, beat the butter and peanut butter together for at least 2–3 minutes until pale and airy. Then, gradually add confectioners’ sugar and a small amount of cream while continuing to whip. This incorporates air and gives the frosting a soft, mousse-like texture.

Can I use natural peanut butter for Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting?

It’s best to avoid natural peanut butter, as its oil can separate and make the frosting grainy or greasy. Use a smooth, no-stir variety like Jif or Skippy for a consistent and creamy texture that holds well on cakes or cupcakes.

How do I fix peanut butter frosting that’s too thick?

If your frosting feels too thick or stiff, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or milk at a time and beat until smooth. Continue adjusting until you reach a spreadable consistency. Be careful not to over-add liquid, as it can make the frosting runny.

Can I make Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 3 days in advance. Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temperature before using. Whip it again for 30 seconds to restore its creamy texture before spreading or piping.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter Frosting is a simple yet luxurious recipe that transforms any dessert into something special. Its smooth texture and balanced sweetness make it ideal for topping cakes, cupcakes, and brownies. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, this frosting is perfect for anyone who enjoys the classic peanut butter flavor in a rich, creamy form.

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