Homemade Peanut Butter Cups: A Classic Chocolate Treat Made Simple

Few treats strike the perfect balance between salty and sweet like a peanut butter cup. These homemade chocolate delights take everything you love about the original and make it even better—fresher, richer, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dessert or a fun no-bake recipe, these peanut butter cups are a perfect choice.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (preferably unsweetened)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
• Sea salt (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners or mini liners for bite-size versions.

In a bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.

Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner and spread it slightly to coat the base. Place the tray in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.

Remove from the freezer and add about 1 to 1½ teaspoons of the peanut butter mixture on top of each hardened chocolate base. Flatten gently with the back of a spoon.

Cover the peanut butter filling with another spoonful of melted chocolate, spreading it to fully enclose the filling. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until fully set. Keep stored in the fridge for best texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 10g
Fiber: 2g

Why You’ll Love These

These homemade peanut butter cups are richer than store-bought versions and free from unnecessary preservatives. You can control the sweetness, swap in dark chocolate for a more intense flavor, or use almond butter for a fun twist. They’re easy to make and hard to stop eating.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality chocolate for a smoother, shinier finish and deeper flavor.
• Chill between layers to keep the layers clean and even.
• Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the peanut butter filling.
• Mini muffin tins work great for smaller bites that are easier to portion.
• Keep refrigerated for best texture, especially if your kitchen is warm.
• Make them vegan by using dairy-free chocolate and plant-based butter.

Homemade peanut butter cups are the ultimate blend of nostalgic flavor and homemade comfort. They’re quick, fun to make, and endlessly customizable. Whether you make a full batch to share or store them as personal treats for the week, these chocolatey delights never disappoint.