Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your donut pan. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_0]
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_1]
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_2]
Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips if desired. Do not overmix. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_3]
Step 5: Spoon the donut batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about halfway. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_4]
Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_5]
Step 7: While donuts cool, prepare the peanut butter filling. In a bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add more heavy cream if needed to reach a spreadable consistency. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_6]
Step 8: Once donuts are completely cooled, slice each donut in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter filling on the bottom half of each donut.
Step 9: Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups generously over the peanut butter filling.
Step 10: Place the top half of each donut onto the filled bottom half, gently pressing to form a sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy! [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_7]