Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

There’s something truly special about homemade peanut butter cups. They bring back childhood memories of trick-or-treating, holiday candy trays, and sneaking a sweet treat after school. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven. While store-bought peanut butter cups are delicious, nothing compares to the homemade version.

When you make them yourself, you can control the ingredients, adjust the sweetness, and even make them as thick and decadent as you like. Plus, they come together with just a few pantry staples—no fancy equipment required! Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a party, or just a weekend treat, these peanut butter cups are sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients – You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen.
• Better Than Store-Bought – Homemade peanut butter cups have a richer flavor and a smoother texture.
• Customizable – You can control the sweetness, thickness, and even experiment with different chocolate coatings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – These are great for gifting, holiday trays, or satisfying a chocolate craving anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

Making peanut butter cups at home is easier than you think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of these sweet, chocolatey treats ready to enjoy!

Step 1: Prepare Your Muffin Tin

Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners. This makes it easier to remove the peanut butter cups once they’ve set. If you don’t have liners, you can lightly grease the muffin tin, but liners are highly recommended for a neater finish.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to make the chocolate extra creamy.

Step 3: Form the Chocolate Base

Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each muffin liner, just enough to cover the base. Use the back of the spoon to spread it evenly. Place the tray in the freezer for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.

Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a separate bowl, mix the remaining peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.

Step 5: Assemble the Peanut Butter Cups

Remove the tray from the freezer and scoop a small amount of the peanut butter mixture onto each chocolate layer. Gently press it down so it forms an even layer but doesn’t touch the edges.

Step 6: Seal with More Chocolate

Spoon the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling, making sure to cover it completely. If the chocolate has started to thicken, microwave it for another 15 seconds to make it easier to spread.

Step 7: Let Them Set

Place the tray back in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the chocolate is firm. Once set, remove the peanut butter cups from the liners and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use Quality Chocolate – Since chocolate is the main ingredient, using high-quality chocolate chips or chocolate bars will make a big difference in taste.
• Don’t Overfill the Cups – Keep the peanut butter layer slightly smaller than the chocolate layer to prevent it from spilling out.
• Customize Your Peanut Butter Cups – Try using dark chocolate, adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top, or even mixing in some crushed nuts for extra texture.
• Store Them Properly – These peanut butter cups can be kept in the fridge or freezer for a longer shelf life.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 peanut butter cups
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• You can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well before mixing to prevent separation.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, add a little extra powdered sugar to taste.
• For a fun twist, try using almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 14g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of Semi-Sweet?

Yes! If you prefer a sweeter peanut butter cup, milk chocolate works beautifully. Dark chocolate is also a great alternative if you like a richer, slightly bitter taste.

How Do I Store Homemade Peanut Butter Cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want them to last even longer, keep them in the freezer for up to three months.

Can I Make These Without a Muffin Tin?

Yes! You can spoon the chocolate and peanut butter layers onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape them into rounds, but using a muffin tin helps them keep their classic shape.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store peanut butter cups in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying.

Related Recipes

If you loved these homemade peanut butter cups, you might also enjoy:

• Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
• Biscoff Brownies: The Ultimate Treat for Biscoff Lovers
• Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
• Butterfinger Peanut Butter Bombs: A Sweet Explosion of Peanut Butter & Crunchy Goodness

Conclusion

Homemade peanut butter cups are a simple yet incredibly satisfying treat that anyone can make. They’re perfect for chocolate lovers, peanut butter enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a good homemade dessert. Whether you’re making a batch for yourself or sharing them with friends and family, these little bites of happiness are sure to be a hit. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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