Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Almond Butter

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Almond Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips; 1 cup almond butter; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making my own peanut butter cups at home, especially when I can use almond butter for an added twist. The combination of smooth almond butter and rich chocolate is incredibly satisfying and definitely beats store-bought options. The best part is that it's surprisingly easy to prepare, and I love being in control of the sweetness and ingredients. These treats don't just satisfy my sweet tooth; they also make for a perfect homemade gift or indulgent snack.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:55:11.430Z

While experimenting with different nut butters, I discovered that almond butter adds a delightful depth to my homemade peanut butter cups. It offers a unique flavor profile that complements the chocolate beautifully. During my last batch, I decided to add a touch of sea salt on top, and it transformed the experience entirely, enhancing the sweetness of the chocolate.

One of the key tips I've learned is to let the chocolate cool slightly before pouring it over the almond butter, which prevents it from fully melting the filling. This method creates a lovely contrast in textures, making each bite a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Healthy alternative to store-bought candy
Rich chocolate flavor with a nutty twist
Customizable fillings for personalized treats

      

Choosing the Right Chocolate

When it comes to making these homemade peanut butter cups, selecting high-quality dark chocolate is essential for achieving that rich flavor profile. I recommend using chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60% for a deep, satisfying taste that nicely balances the sweetness of the almond butter. If you prefer milk chocolate, just note that it will lead to a sweeter end product, which may overpower the nuttiness of the filling.

Be careful while melting the chocolate; do it in short, 30-second bursts to prevent scorching. Stirring in between not only ensures even melting but also helps you achieve that glossy finish, which is a great visual cue that your chocolate is ready to work with.

Perfecting the Almond Butter Filling

The almond butter filling not only provides a delicious contrast to the chocolate but also plays a key role in the texture of the peanut butter cups. Choosing a creamy almond butter will yield a smoother filling; avoid chunky varieties unless you enjoy additional texture. For those who prefer a healthier option, look for almond butter without added sugars or oils, as the powdered sugar can adjust the sweetness to your taste.

To make the filling irresistible, mix until everything is completely incorporated—this will help to avoid a grainy texture in your final product. Taste your almond butter mixture before adding it to ensure it meets your sweetness preference. If you find it too sweet, a pinch of sea salt can elevate the flavors and balance the sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Cups:

1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips
1 cup almond butter
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

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

Prepare the Muffin Tin

Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and pour a spoonful of melted chocolate into each liner, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Mix the Filling

In another bowl, mix almond butter with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Add the Filling

Once the chocolate base is set (about 10 minutes), add a spoonful of the almond butter mixture on top of the chocolate in each cup.

Seal with Chocolate

Cover the almond butter filling with the remaining melted chocolate, ensuring it fully encases the filling.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set before serving. Enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

You can substitute almond butter with any nut butter of your choice for a different flavor. Experiment with flavored chocolates for added variety.

Storage Tips

Once your homemade peanut butter cups are set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about two weeks, though I doubt they'll stick around that long! If you prefer to make them ahead of time, consider freezing them. Place them in a single layer in a container or a freezer bag to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll keep well for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen treat, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave for a quick, low-power defrost of about 15-20 seconds. This will soften them just enough to enjoy that delicious almond butter filling.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Swap out almond butter for other nut butters like cashew or sunflower seed butter to suit your taste or dietary needs. You can also add ingredients such as shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even dried fruits to the filling for an extra layer of texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, especially if you introduce sweeter add-ins.

For a kick of flavor, consider incorporating ingredients like cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder into the chocolate layer. You can also drizzle white chocolate on top after they set for a beautiful and tasty contrast, or sprinkle some sea salt for a gourmet touch that enhances the overall flavor experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but be mindful that it will change the flavor profile and sweetness.

→ How can I make these vegan?

Use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your almond butter is also dairy-free.

→ How long do these peanut butter cups last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for longer storage.

→ Can I add other ingredients like raisins or nuts?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your cups by adding your favorite mix-ins.