Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups (Print)

Creamy peanut butter centers wrapped in smooth chocolate for a delightful sweet treat.

# Ingredient list:

→ Chocolate Layer

01 - 7 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate, chopped
02 - 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)

→ Peanut Butter Filling

03 - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
04 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
05 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
06 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt (omit if using salted peanut butter)

# Directions:

01 - Line a 12-cup mini muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring each cup is ready for chocolate layering.
02 - Combine the chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir continuously until completely smooth and glossy, or microwave in 30-second intervals with stirring between each interval.
03 - Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each paper liner. Gently tilt the muffin tin to spread the chocolate evenly across the base. Transfer to the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.
04 - While the chocolate sets, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, thick, and well-blended.
05 - Portion the peanut butter mixture into 12 equal balls, approximately 2 teaspoons each. Flatten each ball slightly between your palms to create small discs that will fit inside the chocolate cups.
06 - Remove the muffin tin from the freezer. Place one peanut butter disc in the center of each chocolate base, pressing down gently to ensure good contact without disturbing the chocolate layer.
07 - Spoon the remaining melted chocolate over each peanut butter disc, ensuring the filling is completely covered. Tap the tin lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles and create a smooth top surface.
08 - Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate is completely firm and set. The cups should hold their shape when touched.
09 - Once fully set, carefully remove the peanut butter cups from the paper liners. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent melting.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They taste exactly like the store-bought version but with ingredients you can actually pronounce
  • The chocolate to peanut butter ratio is completely under your control
02 -
  • Room temperature ingredients are crucial for a smooth filling
  • The freezer step between chocolate layers prevents the peanut butter from sinking
03 -
  • Flaky sea salt on top transforms these into something completely gourmet
  • Use a teaspoon to drop the chocolate it gives you much more control than pouring