Name: Buckeye Cupcakes
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Yield: 24 serving(s)
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box; 2 c. powdered sugar; 1 c. smooth peanut butter; 4 tbsp. butter, melted; 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract; Pinch kosher salt; 2/3 c. semisweet chocolate chips, melted; 2 tsp. refined coconut oil (optional); 2 c. creamy peanut butter; 10 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp. kosher salt; 2 tbsp. heavy cream

Step 1Preheat oven to 350° and line two 12-cup cupcake pans with cupcake liners. Also line one small baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2Prepare chocolate cake mix according to package instructions. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter and bake until a toothpick inserted into each cupcake comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool for 30 minutes.

Step 3Make buckeyes: In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat together powdered sugar, peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and salt. Form into small, tablespoon sized balls and place on prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate until firm, 20 minutes. Mix melted chocolate with coconut oil, if using. Dip buckeyes in halfway into chocolate, then refrigerate 5 minutes more.

Step 4Make buttercream: In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and butter until light and fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt and beat until evenly combined. Gradually add heavy cream and beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 5Frost cupcakes with buttercream, then pour approximately a teaspoon of melted chocolate onto each cupcake. Top with a buckeye and serve.