Peanut butter whipped cream combines the silky lift of classic whipped cream with the bold, creamy flavor of peanut butter. Whether you’re topping a slice of pie, swirling it onto cupcakes, or just sneaking a spoonful, this topping stands out with its salty-sweet balance and billowy texture. Let’s dive into every detail to help you master this irresistible treat at home.
Why Peanut Butter Whipped Cream Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen
Most desserts benefit from a cloud of whipped cream, but peanut butter whipped cream adds something extra. It transforms plain cakes, blondies, or a bowl of fresh berries with its unique depth. Here’s what makes it a must-try:
- Effortless Upgrade: Drop a spoonful of peanut butter into the classic recipe and unlock a whole new world of flavor.
- Unmatched texture: The addition of peanut butter gives the cream more structure, making it perfect for both spooning and piping.
- Versatile pairing: From chocolate lava cakes to banana pudding, this whipped cream heightens everything it touches.
- Balanced sweetness: Unlike frosting, this topping won’t overpower your dessert—it blends naturally, complementing a range of flavors.
- Simple ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—just pantry staples and a hand mixer.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Whipped Cream
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need, including why each one matters and how substitutions might affect your results.
Ingredient | Purpose | Notes |
---|---|---|
Heavy Whipping Cream | Base for light, fluffy texture | Use cold for best results |
Creamy Peanut Butter | Adds nutty richness, flavor, and stability | Avoid natural or chunky varieties |
Powdered Sugar | Sweetens and dissolves smoothly | Sift before using for a silky finish |
Vanilla Extract | Enhances overall sweetness and warmth | Pure vanilla offers the best aroma |
Salt | Balances flavors and highlights peanut butter notes | Just a pinch is enough |
Ingredient Spotlight: Creamy peanut butter works best for this recipe. Chunky will leave bits, and natural often separates, changing both texture and structure.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Peanut Butter Whipped Cream
- Prep Your Tools
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Place a metal mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15 minutes. This helps the cream whip faster and keeps it from deflating.
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Combine Ingredients
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Add 1 cup cold heavy cream, 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter, 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the chilled bowl.
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Begin Mixing
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Start mixing on low to blend the peanut butter and sugar into the cream. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to keep everything even.
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Whip to Stiff Peaks
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Increase the speed to medium-high. Continue to whip until stiff peaks form. You’ll know you’re done when you lift the beaters and the cream stands tall with a gentle curl.
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Taste and Adjust
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Sample a spoonful. Want it sweeter? Mix in an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar. Craving an even nuttier profile? Add ½ tablespoon more peanut butter.
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Serve or Store
- Use your peanut butter whipped cream right away. If you’re making it ahead, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days.
Techniques and Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Whipped Cream
Making flavored whipped cream isn’t difficult, but a few tweaks make a big difference. Here’s how to guarantee great results:
- Sift the Sugar: Powdered sugar can clump, especially in humid environments. Sifting before adding creates a smooth finish without lumps.
- Stick with Processed Peanut Butter: All-natural peanut butters often separate and can make whipped cream watery or gritty.
- Check for Over-mixing: Once stiff peaks appear, stop mixing. Too much time with the beaters and you’ll go from dreamy cream to butter in less than a minute.
- Chill Everything: Starting with cold utensils and cream ensures voluminous, stable results.
- Adjust for Stability: Need the whipped cream to hold up longer—say, for piping onto cupcakes? Blend in a quarter teaspoon of cream of tartar with the sugar. It stabilizes whipped cream for longer display.
Flavor Variations to Try
Peanut butter whipped cream is delicious on its own, but you can make it your own with these easy tweaks:
- Chocolate Swirl: Sift in two tablespoons of Dutch-process cocoa before whipping. The result: a rich, mousse-like chocolate peanut butter cream.
- Honey-Sweetened: Swap powdered sugar for two tablespoons of honey. This adds floral notes and a golden hue.
- Keto-Friendly: Use a powdered low-carb sweetener such as erythritol. Natural peanut butter works in small amounts, but whip carefully for best consistency.
- Spiced Version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warming, autumn-inspired twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped roasted peanuts or a few mini chocolate chips after whipping for bits of texture.
Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Whipped Cream
Unlike basic whipped cream, the addition of peanut butter means this version tends to hold its shape longer. Still, it’s best within one or two days for peak flavor and texture.
Refrigeration
- Place leftover whipped cream in an airtight container.
- Store in the coldest part of your fridge for up to 48 hours.
- If it deflates slightly, re-whip for 10-15 seconds to restore its volume.
Freezing
- Spoon dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cream balls to a freezer-safe bag, keeping as much air out as possible.
- Use within a month for freshest flavor.
- Top mug cakes, hot cocoa, or even pancakes straight from the freezer.
Best Uses and Creative Ways to Enjoy
While the obvious move is piling high on pies, you can get creative with peanut butter whipped cream. Consider these serving ideas:
- Chocolate or Vanilla Layer Cakes: Spread between layers or on top for a nutty contrast.
- Pancakes and Waffles: Ditch the syrup for a scoop of this instead.
- Espresso or Hot Chocolate: Stir a spoonful into your favorite drink for instant richness.
- Brownies or Blondies: Dollop onto warm brownies for a gooey, melting finish.
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Top classic vanilla or churn your own banana-peanut butter gelato.
- Fresh Strawberries or Sliced Bananas: Simple, fast, and irresistible.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
What if my whipped cream is too runny?
Try chilling both the cream and bowl longer next time. If it’s already mixed and too loose, briefly pop the bowl in the fridge and whip again. If that doesn’t help, add a touch more peanut butter for extra stability.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Technically yes, but you’ll get small nut bits instead of a smooth, mousse-like finish.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Try using coconut cream instead of dairy cream. Chill the can overnight, scoop out the solids, whip with peanut butter, sweetener, and a splash of vanilla.
Is it sweet enough for frosting?
Peanut butter whipped cream is lightly sweet and fluffy, not as dense as buttercream. It’s wonderful piped onto cupcakes, but less suited for creating sharp edges or elaborate designs.
Nutritional Notes
Wondering what’s in each serving? Here’s a general breakdown for a two-tablespoon portion:
Calories | Fat (g) | Protein (g) | Added Sugar (g) | Sodium (mg) |
---|---|---|---|---|
70 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 20 |
Values may vary depending on the brands you use and how much sugar or peanut butter you add.
The Final Word
Peanut butter whipped cream bridges two favorite dessert worlds—airy whipped cream and rich, nutty peanut butter. With just a handful of ingredients and about ten minutes, you can make a topping that takes any dessert up a notch. Experiment with the variations, keep your tools chilled, and enjoy pure creamy peanut butter bliss on every spoonful.

Peanut Butter Whipped Cream
Upgrade your desserts with this peanut butter whipped cream. It is easy to make. It is full of creamy peanut butter flavor.
Ingredients
- pinch salt
- 2-3 tablespoons powdered sugar, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
Instructions
- Chill a medium metal mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15 minutes. This helps the cream whip up faster. It also increases the volume.
- Remove the bowl from the freezer. Add the cold heavy cream to the chilled bowl. Add the peanut butter to the chilled bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of the powdered sugar to the chilled bowl. Add the vanilla extract to the chilled bowl. Add the salt to the chilled bowl.
- Beat the mixture with an electric hand mixer. You can also use a stand mixer with whisk attachments. Beat on medium-low speed. Continue until everything is combined.
- Increase the speed to high. Continue beating for 3 to 5 minutes. Beat until the mixture thickens. Stiff peaks should form when you lift the beaters. The whipped cream should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- Taste. Beat in the additional tablespoon of powdered sugar if needed.
- Use immediately as a frosting, topping, or dip. See the storage tips above for instructions on storing the whipped cream.