Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Classic

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Classic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 12 paper cupcake liners

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making my own Peanut Butter Cups at home! There's something irresistible about the combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate that makes these treats perfect for any occasion. Making them from scratch not only allows me to control the ingredients, but it also guarantees that they're fresh and delicious. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to whip up! With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can recreate the classic candy I grew up loving, and it's so rewarding to share them with friends and family.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:40:15.022Z

Making homemade peanut butter cups was a delightful experiment that transformed my kitchen into a sweet haven. I tried a few techniques, but the most successful one involved using a muffin tin lined with paper cups for easy lifting and serving. The balance of peanut butter and chocolate was sublime, and I finally got the texture just right—creamy yet firm enough to hold its shape.

One of my key tips is to let the chocolate set in the refrigerator for a bit before serving. This allows those wonderful layers to bond nicely, making each bite a burst of peanut butter and chocolate bliss. Trust me, once you try these, you won't want to go back to store-bought!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Heavenly combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate
Quick and simple to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
Customizable with toppings or different chocolate types

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The star ingredient in these Peanut Butter Cups is, of course, the creamy peanut butter. Choosing a high-quality, smooth peanut butter will elevate the flavor and texture of your candies. Look for natural varieties without added sugars or oils, as they provide a richer taste and creaminess. If you're feeling adventurous, try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture—but be mindful that it may alter the smoothness of the final product.

Chocolate chips play a crucial role in this recipe, as they provide both taste and structure. Semi-sweet chocolate brings a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, while dark chocolate can add a more intense flavor profile. If you're vegan or dairy-free, opt for plant-based chocolate chips. Just ensure they melt smoothly; heating them in short 30-second intervals gives you control over the melting process, preventing burning.

Mastering the Technique

When melting chocolate, always use a microwave-safe bowl to avoid any risk of breakage. Stirring frequently ensures even melting. If you notice the chocolate begins to seize or become grainy, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to help smooth it out. This tip is essential to achieving that luscious layer that forms the base and top of your Peanut Butter Cups.

Proper layering is key to creating the perfect Peanut Butter Cups. Make sure the chocolate layer at the bottom is not too thick, as this could overpower the peanut butter filling. A thin layer should only take about 1-2 tablespoons of melted chocolate per liner. After adding the peanut butter mixture, flatten it gently with the back of a spoon to ensure even coverage and prevent any air pockets.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your homemade peanut butter cups:

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
12 paper cupcake liners

Now that you have everything, let's move on to preparing the cups!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious peanut butter cups:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

Prepare the Muffin Tin

Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, just enough to cover it.

Mix Peanut Butter Filling

In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Add Peanut Butter Layer

Scoop a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture and place it on top of the chocolate layer in each muffin liner.

Finish with Chocolate

Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer in each cup, ensuring it is fully covered.

Chill and Set

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until completely set.

Once they've set, they're ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For a fun variation, consider drizzling melted white chocolate on top or adding chopped nuts to the peanut butter filling for extra texture.

Storage Tips

After chilling, these Peanut Butter Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply take them out of the freezer and let them sit for a few minutes at room temperature for a creamy texture.

To avoid issues with texture after freezing, it's best to allow them to thaw slowly rather than using a microwave. This helps maintain the integrity of the chocolate coating while giving the peanut butter filling time to soften. I often make a double batch and freeze half for unexpected cravings!

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize your Peanut Butter Cups by adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before they set for an extra burst of flavor. Consider mixing in crushed pretzels or nuts into the peanut butter filling for a delightful crunch. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a savory component that balances the sweetness of the chocolate.

If you're looking to experiment with flavors, swap out the classic peanut butter for alternatives like almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Each variation brings its own unique flavor, making this recipe adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs. Just be mindful of the consistency, as some alternatives might be thinner or thicker than peanut butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your cups a delightful texture.

→ How long can I store these?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate based on your preference.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, just ensure you use vegan chocolate chips and natural peanut butter without added oils.