Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

If you’re craving something sweet, rich, and incredibly satisfying, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are your new go-to treat. They taste like your favorite store-bought candy, but even better—because you control the flavor, the texture, and the quality. Whether you want an easy no-bake dessert or a fun project to impress friends, this recipe gives you the perfect balance of silky chocolate and creamy peanut butter. One bite, and you’ll wonder why you ever bought them pre-made.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Minimal ingredients, no baking required, and ready faster than you think.
• Simple Pantry Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need at home.
• Perfect Texture: A smooth, creamy peanut butter center surrounded by a crisp chocolate shell.
• Tastes Better Than Store-Bought: Fresh ingredients mean deeper flavor and richer chocolate.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, lunchbox treats, or gifting.
  This recipe stands out because the peanut butter filling is perfectly balanced—not too sweet, not too dense—and the technique ensures clean, beautiful layers every time.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chocolate Shell

• 9 oz (255 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped for smoother melting

For the Peanut Butter Filling

• ¾ cup (205 g) creamy natural peanut butter, well-stirred
• ¼ cup (28 g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted for easy mixing
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, for warmth and depth
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, to balance sweetness and enhance flavor

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

Step 1: Create the Chocolate Base

1. Line a baking sheet with 18 mini paper cups so they stay stable while filling.
2. Melt 4 ounces of the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave using short bursts (15–20 seconds each) to avoid overheating.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate to each cup. Use a small spoon or offset spatula to gently spread the chocolate across the bottom and slightly up the sides.
   • Why this matters: Creating a thin wall helps hold the filling securely and gives that classic “cup” shape.
4. Let the chocolate set at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, until mostly firm.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
2. Once fully combined, scoop the mixture into a resealable plastic bag and press it toward one corner.
   • Tip: Stir your peanut butter thoroughly in the jar first to avoid any oily or dry patches.

Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter Layer

1. Snip a small corner off the plastic bag and pipe 2–3 teaspoons of filling into the center of each chocolate base.
2. Lightly dampen your fingertip and press the filling down until it’s level.
3. Leave a small border of chocolate around the edges—this ensures the top layer seals properly.

Step 4: Finish with the Chocolate Top

1. Melt the remaining 5 ounces of chocolate.
2. Spoon 1 teaspoon over each peanut butter layer, then spread it to cover the top completely.
   • Visual cue: The chocolate should meet the sides cleanly to encase the filling.
3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until fully set.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve chilled for the cleanest bite or allow them to soften slightly for a creamier center.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• To freeze, place them in a single layer in a container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Helpful Notes

• Use quality chocolate—it truly makes a difference.
• If the peanut butter is too soft, add a spoonful of confectioners’ sugar to thicken it.
• Want a festive touch? Sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed peanuts on top before chilling.
• For a sweeter cup, use milk chocolate. For an intense flavor, use dark chocolate.

Conclusion

These homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups deliver everything you love about the classic treat—rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and that perfect bite—without any complicated steps or fancy equipment. They’re easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable, making them a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

If you try this recipe, leave a comment and a star rating below—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!
Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest or Facebook.

Question for you: What fun variations did you try? Crunchy peanut butter? White chocolate? Let me know!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds texture and works great. Just be sure to mix it well so the filling pipes smoothly.

Can I make these gluten-free?

These cups are naturally gluten-free as long as your chocolate and peanut butter are certified GF.

Why are my chocolate layers uneven?

This usually happens if the chocolate cools too quickly. Melt in short bursts and work steadily to keep it fluid.

Can I freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups?

Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge for the best texture.

Can I use milk or dark chocolate instead?

Yes! Milk chocolate makes them sweeter, while dark chocolate gives a richer, more intense flavor.