No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a perfect treat for anyone who loves the combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. They’re easy to make, require no baking, and are perfect for a sweet snack or a special homemade gift. Here’s a simple recipe for these indulgent, no-bake treats!
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer:
- In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should be thick and slightly crumbly but moldable.
- If you want a smoother texture, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
2. Mold the Peanut Butter Cups:
- Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners. This will help with easy removal of the peanut butter cups once they set.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture into each cupcake liner. Press down gently to flatten and create a solid base. The layer should be even, but you don’t need to press too hard.
- Once the peanut butter layer is in place, set the muffin tin in the fridge to chill for 15-20 minutes while you prepare the chocolate layer.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and completely melted. Be careful not to overheat.
- Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate and butter over a double boiler on the stovetop.
4. Assemble the Peanut Butter Cups:
- Once the peanut butter layer is chilled, remove the muffin tin from the fridge.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the melted chocolate mixture over each peanut butter layer, spreading it out gently to cover the peanut butter completely.
- Tap the muffin tin gently on the counter to level out the chocolate layer and help it settle evenly.
5. Chill and Set:
- Place the muffin tin back in the fridge for 30-60 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set and the peanut butter cups are firm.
- Once they are fully set, remove the paper liners, and your No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are ready to enjoy!
Tips & Variations:
- Flavor Add-ins: You can add crushed pretzels or toffee bits to the peanut butter layer for extra crunch and flavor.
- Darker Chocolate: Use dark chocolate or bittersweet chocolate if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Mini Cups: For smaller portions, use a mini muffin tin. You’ll get about 24 mini cups, perfect for snacking or sharing.
- Peanut Butter Alternatives: You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Storage: Store these peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a simple, indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort. Plus, they’re so easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy!