Ingredients
For the Chocolate Shell
- 2 cups (340g) milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or unsalted butter
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Flaky sea salt
- Crushed peanuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Drizzled melted chocolate
Equipment
- Standard muffin tin or mini muffin tin
- Paper cupcake liners
- Microwave-safe bowls or double boiler
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Line a muffin tin with paper liners. If using a mini muffin tin, you’ll get more bite-sized peanut butter cups.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until completely melted and smooth.
Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler over simmering water.
Step 3: Create the Bottom Chocolate Layer
Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate into each liner.
Using the back of a spoon, spread the chocolate slightly up the sides of the liners.
Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
While the chocolate chills, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Stir until smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape but still soft and spreadable.
Step 5: Add the Peanut Butter Layer
Remove the muffin tin from the refrigerator.
Place a spoonful of peanut butter filling into the center of each chocolate-lined cup.
Gently flatten the filling, leaving a small border around the edges so the top chocolate layer can seal the cups.
Step 6: Add the Top Chocolate Layer
Spoon the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling.
Use the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate evenly, completely covering the peanut butter layer.
Tap the muffin tin gently on the counter to smooth the tops and remove air bubbles.
If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or crushed peanuts.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Place the peanut butter cups back in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely firm.
For faster setting, place them in the freezer for about 15–20 minutes.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, remove the paper liners and enjoy.
The chocolate shell should snap slightly when bitten, revealing the creamy peanut butter center.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut Butter Cups are perfect for:
- Dessert platters
- Holiday cookie trays
- Homemade gift boxes
- Birthday parties
- Movie nights
- Afternoon coffee breaks
- Ice cream toppings
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Allow frozen peanut butter cups to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cups
- Use high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor.
- Natural peanut butter can be used, but stir it well before measuring.
- Chill the chocolate layers between steps for clean, defined layers.
- Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
- Use mini muffin liners for bite-sized treats.
- For extra crunch, mix chopped peanuts into the filling.
- Keep the chocolate warm while assembling to ensure smooth layers.
Variations
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Use dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet version.
Crunchy Peanut Butter Cups
Replace creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter.
Almond Butter Cups
Swap peanut butter for almond butter.
White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Use white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Peanut Butter Pretzel Cups
Add crushed pretzels to the filling for a sweet-and-salty crunch.
Protein Peanut Butter Cups
Mix a scoop of vanilla protein powder into the peanut butter filling for a higher-protein snack.
Nutrition Highlights
Peanut butter provides protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, while chocolate contributes antioxidants and rich flavor. These homemade Peanut Butter Cups are a satisfying treat that can be customized to suit your preferences.
With a smooth chocolate shell and a creamy peanut butter center, these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups are an easy, indulgent treat that tastes even better than the store-bought version.
