Creamy, chocolatey perfection you’ll want to make again and again!
Friends, who doesn’t love the classic combo of chocolate and peanut butter? These DIY Peanut Butter Cups bring all the rich, creamy, and chocolatey goodness of the store-bought version right into your kitchen. Easy to whip up and even easier to devour, these are a surefire way to bring smiles to any dessert table—or keep them all for yourself (no judgment here!).
Ingredients
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips: For the rich outer shell.
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening: Keeps the chocolate smooth and shiny.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show!
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors.
- Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling.
Supplies Needed
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spoon or spatula
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Line a muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal.
- Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and glossy. - Add the Chocolate Base:
Spoon about 1 tsp of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, spreading it slightly up the sides. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set. - Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should be thick but spreadable. - Add the Filling:
Scoop about 1 tsp of the peanut butter mixture into each cup, pressing it gently to flatten slightly. Be sure to leave space around the edges for the top chocolate layer. - Top with Chocolate:
Spoon another tsp of melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling, spreading it to seal the edges. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty finish. - Let Them Set:
Chill the peanut butter cups in the fridge for 20-30 minutes, or until fully set. - Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the cups from the liners and savor your homemade peanut butter delights. Warning: they disappear fast!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in a cool spot.
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Tip 1: Use mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats perfect for gifting.
- Tip 2: Add a drizzle of white chocolate on top for a decorative touch.
- Tip 3: Experiment with crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Variations
- Almond Butter Cups: Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a nutty twist.
- Dark Chocolate Cups: Use dark chocolate chips for a bolder flavor.
- Mint Chocolate Cups: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the chocolate for a refreshing variation.
FAQ
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid a runny consistency.
Q: Can I make these without coconut oil?
Absolutely! The chocolate might be slightly thicker but will still work fine.
Q: Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based peanut butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
Final Thoughts
These DIY Peanut Butter Cups are a chocolate-lover’s dream come true! Creamy, sweet, and irresistibly rich, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whip up a batch for your next holiday tray, or keep them tucked away as your personal stash. Either way, y’all are gonna love ’em—guaranteed!
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