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Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

This recipe involves melting smooth chocolate and mixing creamy peanut butter to create a layered treat with a glossy outer shell and rich, velvety center. The final product has a firm, chocolate-coated exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter core, resembling the iconic candy in appearance and texture.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips for melting
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter smooth or chunky depending on preference
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar to sweeten the peanut butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional but enhances flavor

Equipment

  • Mini muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Microwave or double boiler
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper or silicone liners

Method
 

  1. Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or silicone cups to prepare for the chocolates.
  2. Pour the chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted with a glossy finish.
  3. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each muffin cup, tilting the pan slightly to spread it evenly over the bottom and up the sides, creating a thin shell.
  4. Place the tray in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm and set.
  5. Meanwhile, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl, stirring until smooth and creamy.
  6. Once the chocolate shells are firm, spoon a dollop of the peanut butter mixture into each cup, filling it about halfway, and gently press down to remove air bubbles.
  7. Cover the peanut butter layer with the remaining melted chocolate, smoothing the top with a spatula to seal the filling inside.
  8. Return the tray to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely hardened and glossy.
  9. Remove the peanut butter cups from the refrigerator, and gently peel away the liners or lift them out of the silicone cups.
  10. Serve the peanut butter cups at room temperature or slightly chilled, enjoying the firm chocolate shell with the creamy filling inside.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate or add a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter filling. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.