These Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a dream for any sweet lover! With a rich chocolate shell and a creamy peanut butter center, they’re simply delightful.
Making these is super fun! I love that I can whip them up in no time, and they make a perfect treat for sharing (or keeping all for myself!). Who can resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dark Chocolate Chips: I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can use semi-sweet chocolate instead. Chocolate chunks also work well if you like a chunkier texture.
Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter is great for a creamy filling, but you can use crunchy for added texture. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter or tahini make excellent substitutes!
Powdered Sugar: This is used to sweeten the peanut butter filling. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, maple syrup or agave syrup can work too, just adjust the amount to taste.
Sea Salt Flakes: These add a delightful contrast. If you don’t have sea salt, you can use regular table salt but be cautious with the amount since it’s more potent!
How Do I Melt Chocolate Without Burning It?
Melting chocolate can be tricky as it can easily seize or burn. Here are some simple tips for success:
- Double Boiler Method: Use a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Make sure the bowl isn’t touching the water to prevent direct heat from burning the chocolate.
- Microwave Method: If using a microwave, heat chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This keeps the temperature even and helps avoid burning.
- Choosing the Right Bowl: Use a glass or metal bowl; plastic can melt or warp.
Once melted, let it cool slightly before using it in the recipe. Enjoy making these delicious treats!
How to Make Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cups:
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips (or finely chopped dark chocolate)
For The Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or smooth)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
For The Topping:
- Sea salt flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus an additional 40 minutes to chill and set. So, in total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes to delicious chocolatey goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Molds:
Start by lining a muffin tin with paper liners or silicone molds. This will make it easy to pop the peanut butter cups out once they are set.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate:
To melt the chocolate, you can use a double boiler or microwave. If using the microwave, heat the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval until it’s smooth. Be careful not to overheat it!
3. Create the Chocolate Base:
Once melted, spoon about 1 tablespoon of chocolate into each cup or mold. Spread it out to cover the bottom evenly. Put the tray in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to let the chocolate set.
4. Mix the Peanut Butter Filling:
While the chocolate is setting, in a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix it well until it’s smooth and creamy.
5. Add the Peanut Butter Layer:
After the chocolate has set, take the molds out of the fridge. Add about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter filling into each cup, being careful to keep it away from the edges.
6. Cover with More Chocolate:
Pour another tablespoon of melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, ensuring it’s completely covered. This is where you seal in all that creamy goodness!
7. Top It Off:
Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top of each cup to add a delicious salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
8. Chill Until Set:
Place the tray back in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the cups are fully set and hard.
9. Enjoy Your Treats!
Once set, remove the cups from the molds and enjoy your homemade dark chocolate peanut butter cups! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—that’s if there are any left!
These delightful treats are sure to be a hit, offering a perfect balance of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Enjoy the goodness!
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of Dark Chocolate?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter taste, milk chocolate is a great substitute. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor will be less intense compared to dark chocolate.
How Do I Store Leftover Peanut Butter Cups?
Store any leftover peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn!
Can I Make These With Different Nut Butters?
Yes! Feel free to swap out peanut butter for other nut butters like almond or cashew. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works wonderfully as well!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Paper Liners?
If you’re out of paper liners, you can use silicone molds directly. Alternatively, lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray to help the cups release easily after setting.
