Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

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Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Layers:

• 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips — gives a deep, rich cocoa flavor that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or butter) — helps create a glossy, smooth texture that melts perfectly in your mouth.

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular) — the star ingredient; creamy, nutty, and rich.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar — adds sweetness and helps thicken the filling.
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened — makes the filling velvety smooth.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract — enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• Pinch of salt — balances the sweetness and boosts the peanut flavor.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan
   Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners (or use a silicone mold for easier release).

2. Melt the Chocolate
   In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil.
   Heat in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

3. Create the Bottom Chocolate Layer
   Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into each liner.
   Tilt or swirl to coat the bottom evenly.
   Place in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.

4. Make the Peanut Butter Filling
   In a small bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
   If too soft, chill for 10 minutes before shaping.

5. Add the Filling
   Roll small balls (about 1 teaspoon each) of peanut butter mixture and gently press them flat on top of each chocolate base, leaving a small border around the edges.

6. Top with More Chocolate
   Spoon another teaspoon of melted chocolate over each peanut butter layer, ensuring it’s completely covered.
   Tap the pan gently on the counter to smooth out the tops.

7. Chill and Set
   Freeze or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes, until firm.
   Once set, store in an airtight container in the fridge (up to 2 weeks) or freezer (up to 2 months).

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Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cups

• Use high-quality chocolate — it makes a huge difference in taste and texture.
• For a salted twist, sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top before chilling.
• Swap peanut butter for almond, cashew, or sunflower butter for allergy-friendly versions.
• Want a softer bite? Use milk chocolate instead of dark.

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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

These peanut butter cups taste better than store-bought, with richer chocolate, smoother filling, and no artificial aftertaste. Every bite melts into pure bliss — the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and nutty decadence.

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