Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a classic treat that perfectly marries the rich, smooth flavor of chocolate with the creamy, slightly salty taste of peanut butter. These homemade delights are surprisingly easy to make and offer a deliciously indulgent alternative to store-bought versions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these sweet, bite-sized confections that are perfect for snacking, gifting, or enjoying as a satisfying dessert. The combination of the velvety chocolate shell with the luscious peanut butter filling is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Mini cupcake liners
Instructions:
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Cups: Line a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, spreading it slightly to cover the base. Place the tin in the freezer for about 5 minutes to set the chocolate.
- Add the Peanut Butter Layer: Once the chocolate has set, add about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture on top of the chocolate layer. Press it down slightly to flatten.
- Top with More Chocolate: Spoon another teaspoon of melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, ensuring it covers the peanut butter completely. Gently tap the muffin tin on the counter to smooth out the chocolate.
- Chill and Set: Place the tin in the refrigerator or freezer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.
- Serve: Once set, remove the peanut butter cups from the liners and enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a homemade indulgence that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors, making them a delightful treat for any occasion!
