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Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups: A Decadent Homemade Treat
There’s something truly special about the combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter—two flavors that have stood the test of time as a perfect pairing. But if you’re looking to elevate this classic treat to a new level, why not make your own Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups at home? These homemade cups are indulgent, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. With layers of smooth, sweetened peanut butter wrapped in decadent, high-quality chocolate, this recipe is sure to become your go-to dessert.
Whether you’re preparing for a special celebration or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these gourmet chocolate peanut butter cups will impress friends, family, and guests alike.
Ingredients
- For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (preferably natural and unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, to taste)
- For the Chocolate Coating:
- 8 ounces high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate (you can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter option)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or unsalted butter (for extra smoothness)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for a salty-sweet contrast)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
- Mix the Peanut Butter Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. You should have a thick, creamy texture that’s easy to work with. Taste it to ensure it’s sweet enough for your liking—add a bit more powdered sugar if you want it sweeter.
- Chill the Filling: Place the peanut butter mixture in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. Chilling it will make it easier to shape into rounds later on and ensure it holds its shape when encased in chocolate.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- Melt the Chocolate: While the peanut butter filling is chilling, melt the chocolate. You can do this by breaking the chocolate into small pieces and placing it in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or microwave it in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If you’re using coconut oil or butter, stir it in with the chocolate to create a smoother, more luxurious finish.
- Add Sea Salt: If you’re a fan of the salty-sweet combo, stir in the sea salt into the melted chocolate. The salt enhances the chocolate’s flavor and balances the richness of the peanut butter.
Step 3: Assemble the Peanut Butter Cups
- Prepare the Molds: You can use a silicone mold, a mini muffin tin, or even paper cupcake liners for this recipe. If you’re using a muffin tin, line it with paper liners to make removal easier.
- Add the First Chocolate Layer: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the melted chocolate into each cup and gently swirl it to coat the bottom of the mold or liner. The layer doesn’t need to be too thick, just enough to create a smooth base for the peanut butter filling. Place the molds in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to allow the chocolate to firm up.
- Add the Peanut Butter Layer: Once the chocolate layer has set, take the peanut butter filling from the fridge. Scoop out about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it into a small ball. Flatten the ball into a disc shape that fits snugly into each chocolate cup. Place it directly on top of the chilled chocolate layer.
- Top with More Chocolate: Once the peanut butter layer is in place, spoon another tablespoon of the melted chocolate over the peanut butter, covering it completely. Use the back of the spoon to smooth out the chocolate and ensure the peanut butter is sealed inside.
- Chill to Set: Place the peanut butter cups back in the fridge and allow them to chill for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened.
- For Complete Cooking STEPS
