1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This step ensures the cupcakes bake evenly and do not stick to the pan.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring the cupcakes rise properly.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, honey, and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, creating a softer texture in the cupcakes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs provide structure and moisture to the cupcakes.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture, alternating with sour cream, until everything is well combined. This prevents overmixing, which can make cupcakes dense rather than light and fluffy.

Gently fold in the chopped peaches. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as this could break down the fruit and make the batter too watery.

5. Fill the Cupcake Liners and Bake

Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check for doneness around the 18-minute mark.

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the muffin tin before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling them properly prevents the frosting from melting when applied.

6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, honey, and salt. Mix until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, a tablespoon of milk can be added to reach the desired consistency.

7. Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake. For an elegant finish, garnish with fresh peach slices. This adds a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of peach flavor.