Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dark Cocoa

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dark Cocoa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dark cocoa powder; 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Favorites

I love indulging in the rich combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and making my own Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dark Cocoa allows me to control the sweetness and quality of ingredients. This recipe is straightforward and incredibly satisfying to whip up—perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth while keeping it a little healthier. Each bite delivers that delicious creamy peanut butter goodness wrapped in a dark cocoa shell. Best of all, I can share these treats with family and friends, who always appreciate a homemade touch.

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:29:34.790Z

When I first tried to recreate my favorite candy, I was surprised at how simple it was to make Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dark Cocoa. I enjoyed experimenting with the ratios of peanut butter to chocolate, trying different blends of cocoa to achieve that perfect balance. The secret, I've found, is not to rush the refrigeration process, allowing the cups to set properly for the best texture.

One delightful tip I learned is to sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top just before they set. This adds an unexpected yet delightful contrast to the sweetness, and trust me, it elevates the whole flavor profile!

        Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cups
        Decadent dark cocoa that satisfies chocolate cravings
Creamy peanut butter filling that's irresistibly smooth
Customizable sweetness to suit your taste preferences

      

Mastering the Chocolate Coating

The chocolate coating is a critical element of these peanut butter cups, as it not only provides flavor but also texture. To achieve a silky-smooth finish, make sure your coconut oil is fully melted but not too hot—about 120°F is ideal. If it starts to bubble, let it cool slightly before adding the dark cocoa powder. This will help avoid any grainy texture, ensuring that your peanut butter cups have a professional-quality finish.

For an even richer flavor, consider using a high-quality dark cocoa powder with at least 70% cocoa content. This enhances the chocolate’s intensity and balances the sweetness of the peanut butter filling. Additionally, if you want a more dramatic look, you can temper the chocolate. Tempering involves melting it to a specific temperature before cooling it—resulting in a glossy and snap-worthy shell that will impress everyone!

Peanut Butter Variations

While creamy peanut butter is a classic choice, you can experiment with different styles or brands to customize the flavor. Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate. Alternatively, for those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or almond butter can be excellent substitutes that still provide that nutty richness you crave. Just ensure they have a similar consistency to creamy peanut butter for the best results.

For a bit of fun, don’t hesitate to infuse your peanut butter mixture with other flavors. A teaspoon of cinnamon, a touch of powdered ginger, or even a splash of bourbon can take these treats to the next level. Just remember to balance any additional flavors with the sweetness of your binder, so the overall flavor remains harmonious.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Homemade Peanut Butter Cups:

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup dark cocoa powder
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
Pinch of sea salt

With these ingredients, you're ready to create a delicious treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Homemade Peanut Butter Cups:

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until well blended and set aside.

Make the Chocolate Coating

In another bowl, mix the melted coconut oil and dark cocoa powder until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps for a silky texture.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Pour a layer of the chocolate mixture into the bottom of each liner, about 1 tablespoon. Then, place a small dollop of the peanut butter mixture on top, followed by another layer of chocolate to cover the peanut butter. Tap gently to settle.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes or until set. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!

Enjoy your homemade delicacy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a hint of cinnamon to your peanut butter mixture or using almond butter instead of peanut butter.

Storage Tips

To keep your homemade peanut butter cups fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to extend their shelf life, these treats freeze remarkably well. Just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.

If you notice condensation forming when you take them out of the fridge or freezer, give them a moment to adjust back to room temperature to maintain their ideal texture. This prevents any sogginess, allowing the chocolate shell to stay crisp while the peanut butter filling remains creamy.

Serving and Enjoying

These Peanut Butter Cups make an excellent addition to dessert platters, and they pair well with fresh fruit or a scoop of your favorite ice cream. If you're hosting a party, consider cutting them into smaller bites to share, making them perfect for sampling without guilt. Drizzling a bit of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving gives them an extra touch of elegance.

For added flair, experiment by topping your peanut butter filling with mini marshmallows or crushed pretzels before sealing with the chocolate layer. This will create a delightful flavor contrast while adding visual appeal. I love serving them at family gatherings since they disappear as soon as they're placed on the table!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add some delightful texture to your cups.

→ How can I store these peanut butter cups?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute with agave syrup or a sugar-free alternative, but adjust the quantity as necessary.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, simply use maple syrup as your sweetener and ensure your cocoa powder is dairy-free.