Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

one word to describe this cupcake is A M A Z I N G !  i got this recipe a few years ago from ina garten.  however, to make it faster and easier, i use a dark chocolate cake mix.  if you want her full recipe click here.

this recipe makes enough for 24 cupcakes.

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CUPCAKES


1 box dark chocolate cake mix
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
5 TBSP butter, at room temp
3/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 tsp kosher salt (makes a difference)

1/3 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

bake cake according to the box.  for the icing:  place sugar, peanut butter, butter, vanilla and salt in a bowl.  mix on low until creamy, scraping down the sides.  add cream and beat on high until light and smooth.  ice cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with chopped peanuts.

i use an icing bag with a large star tip and swirl the icing on.