Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cup Cakes with Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2

Prepare chocolate cake mix according to package directions and fill cup cake liners 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 7 minutes then carefully remove cup cakes from oven and drop the Reese's Miniatures into the center of the cup cakes. Place back in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes away clean.

Step 3

Cool cupcakes completely on a wire rack.

Step 4

While cup cakes are cooling prepare buttercream frosting by blending butter and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixture until smooth.

Step 5

Pour in the powdered sugar and salt and mix just until the sugar begins to get moistened (about 45 seconds). Add the vanilla and heavy cream and blend for 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and beat for an additional 4 minutes until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.

Step 6

Frost the cooled cup cakes using your desired method then top with chocolate curls (see notes) and halved Reese's Miniature Peanut Butter Cups if desired. Enjoy!