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Easy Homemade Peanut Butter Cups recipe 01

Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

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Easy Homemade Peanut Butter Cups recipe 
✔ No Unnecessary Additives – Store-bought versions often contain preservatives, excess sugar, and hydrogenated oils. Making them at home means cleaner ingredients.
✔ Customizable Sweetness & Texture – Prefer dark chocolate? Want a crunchier filling? You control the ingredients.
✔ Budget-Friendly – A batch of homemade peanut butter cups costs less than buying premium brands.
✔ Perfect for Gifting – Package them in a cute box or bag for a heartfelt homemade gift.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Peanut Butter Filling

  1. 1 cup creamy peanut butter – Use natural for a healthier option or regular for extra creaminess.
  2. ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps bind the filling for a smooth texture.
  3. ¼ cup powdered sugar – Adjust to taste; omit if you prefer less sweetness.
  4. ½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances flavor depth.

For the Chocolate Coating

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Can substitute with milk or dark chocolate.
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil – Makes the chocolate smoother and easier to melt (substitute with vegetable oil if needed).

Optional Add-Ins & Toppings

  • Sea salt flakes – For a sweet & salty contrast.
  • Crushed peanuts – Adds crunch.
  • Mini chocolate chips – For extra texture.
  • A dash of cinnamon – For a warm, spiced twist.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  2. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
  3. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up slightly—this makes it easier to shape.

Pro Tip: If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix chocolate chips and coconut oil.
  2. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and glossy (about 1-2 minutes total).

Alternative Method: Use a double boiler for more controlled melting.

Step 3: Assemble the Peanut Butter Cups

  1. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners (mini or regular size).
  2. Spoon 1-2 teaspoons of melted chocolate into each liner, spreading to coat the bottom evenly.
  3. Freeze for 5 minutes to set the base.

Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter Layer

  1. Remove from the freezer and place a small scoop of peanut butter filling in each cup.
  2. Gently press down, leaving a small border for the top chocolate layer.

Pro Tip: Wet your fingers slightly to prevent sticking when shaping the filling.

Step 5: Seal with More Chocolate

  1. Pour another layer of melted chocolate over the peanut butter, covering it completely.
  2. Lightly tap the tin to remove air bubbles and smooth the tops.

Step 6: Chill & Set

  1. Freeze for 10-15 minutes (or refrigerate for 30 minutes) until fully firm.
  2. Once set, peel off the liners and enjoy!

Storage Tip: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer shelf life.

Notes

🔹 Use High-Quality Chocolate – Cheap chocolate can become waxy when melted. Opt for Ghirardelli, Guittard, or Lindt for best results.
🔹 Adjust Sweetness – If using natural peanut butter, you may need a bit more powdered sugar.
🔹 Add Texture – Mix in crushed pretzels, Rice Krispies, or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
🔹 Decorate Creatively – Drizzle with white chocolate, sprinkle with flaky salt, or dust with cocoa powder.

Keywords: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups