Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making peanut butter cups at home lets you control the ingredients and sweetness while enjoying a fresh, melt-in-your-mouth treat. They’re simple to prepare, require just a few pantry staples, and offer endless opportunities to personalize with different flavors, textures, or toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
Powdered sugar
Butter (softened)
Vanilla extract
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Directions

Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner and spread evenly.
Place the pan in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set the chocolate.
Add a dollop of the peanut butter mixture on top of the set chocolate, flattening slightly.
Cover with more melted chocolate to seal the peanut butter layer.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until fully set.
Remove from liners and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 12 peanut butter cups
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top before the final chocolate layer for a sweet-salty contrast.
Mix in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips into the peanut butter filling.
Use white chocolate or milk chocolate as an alternative coating.

Storage/Reheating

Store peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage—thaw in the fridge before serving. Avoid heating, as the chocolate may melt.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the powdered sugar to get the right consistency.

Can I make these vegan?

Use dairy-free chocolate and plant-based butter substitutes.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

Add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil when melting the chocolate.

Can I make larger or smaller cups?

Yes, adjust the amount of filling and chocolate according to your desired size.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

No, but melting carefully helps achieve a smooth finish.

Can I add flavors to the peanut butter filling?

Yes, try cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a bit of honey.

How long do peanut butter cups last?

Up to 2 weeks refrigerated, longer if frozen.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, it adds a nice texture contrast.

Can I make these without a muffin tin?

Yes, use silicone molds or small candy cups.

Are homemade peanut butter cups healthier?

They can be, as you control ingredients and avoid preservatives.

Conclusion

Homemade Peanut Butter Cups are a delightful and easy treat that brings the classic candy to your kitchen with fresh, customizable flavors. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or satisfying chocolate-peanut butter cravings, these homemade cups are sure to become a favorite sweet indulgence.