No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

1. Melt the Butter and Brown Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. This step enhances the sweetness and creates a smooth texture.
2. Mix in Peanut Butter: Once the mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat and stir in the peanut butter. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
3. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually stir in the powdered sugar until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the chocolate layer.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Layer

1. Melt the Chocolate and Coconut Oil: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or butter). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
2. Stir in Vanilla Extract (Optional): If you’d like to add a hint of vanilla, stir it into the melted chocolate mixture for a touch of extra flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Peanut Butter Cups

1. Prepare the Muffin Cups: Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners. You can use either regular-sized or mini muffin tins depending on the size of the cups you prefer.
2. Add the Chocolate Layer: Spoon about a tablespoon of the melted chocolate mixture into the bottom of each liner, spreading it evenly. Tap the muffin tin gently on the counter to ensure the chocolate spreads evenly.
3. Chill the Chocolate: Place the muffin tin in the fridge for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to firm up.
4. Add the Peanut Butter Filling: Once the chocolate layer is set, scoop a small amount of the peanut butter mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it slightly. Place the peanut butter disc on top of the hardened chocolate in each liner.
5. Top with More Chocolate: Spoon another layer of melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter, ensuring the filling is fully covered.
6. Chill Again: Place the muffin tin back in the fridge for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the peanut butter cups are firm, remove them from the liners and serve. They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer storage.

Tips for the Best No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

• Use High-Quality Chocolate: For a richer flavor, opt for high-quality chocolate chips or chocolate bars. You can use semisweet, dark, or milk chocolate based on your preference.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your peanut butter cups on the less-sweet side, you can reduce the amount of brown and powdered sugar. Alternatively, add a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter filling for a salty-sweet contrast.
• Smooth vs. Crunchy Peanut Butter: While creamy peanut butter is traditionally used, you can experiment with crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
• Vegan Option: To make these cups vegan, use dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil instead of butter.

Variations

• Chocolate-Peanut Butter Swirl: For a fun twist, swirl some peanut butter into the top chocolate layer before it sets.
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Cups: Add a small dollop of jelly on top of the peanut butter filling for a playful PB&J-inspired treat.
• Nut-Free Version: If you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even cookie butter.
• Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or even mini marshmallows to the peanut butter filling for extra crunch and flavor.

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cups

These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with:

• Milk or Coffee: The richness of the chocolate and peanut butter is perfectly complemented by a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.
• Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent dessert, crumble the peanut butter cups over a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.

Conclusion

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a simple, decadent treat that anyone can make in no time. With the perfect balance of sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re satisfying a late-night craving, preparing for a party, or making edible gifts, these peanut butter cups will never disappoint.