Homemade Peanut Butter Cups
Homemade Peanut Butter Cups are a fun and tasty treat that bring together the rich creaminess of peanut butter and the smooth sweetness of chocolate. These little cups have a…
Tip: save now, cook later.Homemade Peanut Butter Cups are a fun and tasty treat that bring together the rich creaminess of peanut butter and the smooth sweetness of chocolate. These little cups have a perfect balance of salty and sweet that makes them really hard to resist. The contrast between the soft peanut butter center and the firm chocolate shell is what makes every bite so satisfying.
I love making these at home because I can control how much peanut butter and chocolate goes into each one, so they’re just how I like them—super creamy and not too sweet. Plus, it’s really rewarding to unwrap your own homemade chocolate treat. If you’re like me, you’ll find that once you start making them, it’s tough to stop! A little tip I’ve learned: chilling the cups well before serving helps the chocolate harden perfectly.
These peanut butter cups are great for sharing with friends, giving as little homemade gifts, or just treating yourself after a long day. I often like to set some aside in the fridge and enjoy one as a sweet pick-me-up. They remind me of childhood snacks but with a grown-up, homemade touch that makes them feel extra special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: Creamy natural peanut butter gives the filling a fresh, nutty taste. If you need a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a different but tasty twist.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens and thickens the peanut butter. You could use coconut sugar powder to reduce refined sugar, but expect a slight change in flavor and texture.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best for a nice balance of flavors. If you prefer milk chocolate or need a dairy-free option, use vegan-friendly chocolate chips or bars.
Coconut Oil: Adding a bit helps the chocolate melt smoothly and harden with a shiny finish. If you don’t have coconut oil, any neutral oil like vegetable or canola works fine.
Flaky Sea Salt: This small sprinkle on top highlights the sweet and nutty flavors beautifully. If unavailable, a tiny pinch of regular salt will still do the job.
How Can I Get a Smooth, Even Chocolate Shell on My Peanut Butter Cups?
The key to a perfect chocolate shell is melting and handling the chocolate carefully, then layering it with a little patience.
- Heat the chocolate gently in short bursts, stirring in between. This prevents burning and keeps it smooth.
- Spoon a thin, even layer into the molds first and chill until just set. This forms a base to hold the peanut butter filling.
- When adding the peanut butter, leave a small border around the edges to seal it with the next chocolate layer.
- Pour the top chocolate layer slowly, smoothing it with the back of a spoon to cover well without spilling over.
- Chill the cups long enough to let the chocolate harden fully. If you’re in a hurry, a longer fridge time helps prevent melting or squishing.
Following these steps helps create that satisfying chocolate snap and clean edges, making your peanut butter cups look as good as they taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Muffin tin – holds the cups in shape while you layer the chocolate and peanut butter.
- Paper cupcake liners or silicone molds – make it easy to pop out the finished cups without mess.
- Microwave-safe bowl – perfect for melting chocolate in short bursts without burning.
- Spoons – one for spreading chocolate, one for scooping the peanut butter filling.
- Refrigerator – essential for setting the chocolate layers firmly before and after assembly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty taste.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the peanut butter for a warm or spicy twist.
- Mix mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the filling for extra texture.
- Try white or milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor.
Homemade Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (preferably natural, unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 1 hour to chill and set in the refrigerator. The chilling is important to let the chocolate harden and the peanut butter filling firm up, giving you those perfect little cups to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the peanut butter filling:
Combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set it aside for now.
2. Prepare the molds:
Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners or use silicone molds to make it easier to remove your peanut butter cups later.
3. Melt the chocolate:
Put the chocolate chips and coconut or vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each, until it’s completely melted and smooth.
4. Assemble the chocolate base:
Spoon about one tablespoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, spreading it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to let the chocolate set lightly.
5. Add the peanut butter layer:
Add one tablespoon of the peanut butter filling onto the chocolate base in each cup. Spread it gently and evenly, but leave a small space around the edges for the chocolate to seal the top.
6. Cover with more chocolate:
Spoon more melted chocolate over each peanut butter layer, making sure to cover it fully and seal the edges. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
7. Sprinkle sea salt:
Add a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of each peanut butter cup for a special finishing touch.
8. Chill until set:
Place the muffin tin back into the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm and fully set.
9. Serve and store:
Once firm, remove the peanut butter cups from their liners. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for the best taste and texture.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter for This Recipe?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works great, but make sure to stir it well before measuring since the oil can separate. Using creamy natural peanut butter helps keep the filling smooth and delicious.
How Do I Store Homemade Peanut Butter Cups?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They may soften slightly at room temperature, so keeping them chilled ensures the chocolate stays firm and the filling fresh.
Can I Substitute the Chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even vegan/dairy-free chocolate chips to suit your taste or dietary needs. Just melt and handle them the same way for best results.
Is It Possible to Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the peanut butter filling and melt the chocolate in advance. Assemble the cups and refrigerate until needed. They’re perfect for making a day or two ahead!
