Homemade White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Who doesn’t love a good peanut butter cup? Now imagine that creamy, dreamy goodness paired with white chocolate’s rich, velvety sweetness. That’s precisely what this recipe is all about— a delicious combination of peanut butter and chocolate into one irresistible snack. These homemade white chocolate peanut butter cups are sure to impress, perfect for a sweet tooth craving or even to gift to friends and family.
Enter your information below, and I’ll send it straight to your inbox! Plus, you’ll get complimentary gifts!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Kim Schob.
Best of all, you don’t need many fancy ingredients or advanced cooking skills to whip these up these favorite treats. You’ll enjoy these delectable confections with just a few simple steps in no time. Whether for a cozy night in or a fun baking project, this recipe will become a go-to for anyone who loves a tasty treat. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to make some delicious magic happen in your kitchen!
If you are looking for more peanut butter recipes, I have a few more you might want to try. Stick with the copycat Reese’s recipes and make some peanut butter cup cookies bars. Or go with a classic and make some old-fashioned peanut butter fudge.
Still in the mood for more white chocolate? Try this simple heart shaped brownies recipe complete with delicious white chocolate frosting.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Only a handful of easy-to-find ingredients are required, making it accessible for everyone.
- Quick to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick snack, a gift, or a festive treat for gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe to include your favorite flavors, such as sea salt or a drizzle of dark chocolate.
What’s In This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Recipe?
- Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this finely ground sugar dissolves quickly and smoothly, providing the perfect sweetness and texture to balance the creamy peanut butter.
- Peanut Butter: Creamy and rich, natural peanut butter adds a nutty flavor and smooth consistency that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of white chocolate. Use no-stir peanut butter to ensure the mixture remains stable and easy to work with for best results.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a layer of warmth and complexity to the sweet and savory combination.
- White Chocolate Bark: This melts smoothly and sets firmly, creating a luscious exterior that encases the peanut butter filling. Be sure to choose high-quality white chocolate for a velvety, rich flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: A small amount of vegetable oil is mixed with the white chocolate to achieve a shinier finish and smoother texture, making it easier to coat the peanut butter filling evenly.
See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
Substitutions and Additions
- Powdered Sugar: If you don’t have powdered sugar on hand, you can use granulated sugar, but blend it in a food processor until it reaches a fine, powdery consistency. Alternatively, use an equal amount of honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness, but keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly.
- Peanut Butter: For a different flavor, try using almond butter, cashew butter, cocoa butter, or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. Make sure to use a no-stir variety to maintain the same consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract or coconut extract for a unique twist on the classic flavor. You can also leave it out if you prefer a more straightforward taste.
- White Chocolate Bark: If white chocolate isn’t your favorite, feel free to use milk or dark chocolate instead. For an interesting variation, you can also try flavored chocolate, like mint or orange.
- Vegetable Oil: Coconut oil can be used instead of vegetable oil for a subtle coconut flavor and added creaminess. Alternatively, use canola oil or melted butter for a similar effect.
Additions:
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a bit of coarse sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets for a delightful contrast between sweet and salty.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: After the white chocolate has set, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the tops for an elegant look and a richer taste.
- Crushed Nuts: Sprinkle crushed nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or peanuts, into the peanut butter mixture or on top of the chocolate coating for extra crunch and flavor.
- Flavored Extracts: Add a few drops of flavored extracts, such as peppermint, coffee, or caramel, to the peanut butter mixture to create a new and exciting taste experience.
- Decorative Sprinkles: Top the finished cups with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to make them festive for holidays and special occasions.
How To Make Copycat Peanut Butter Cups (step-by-step directions)
- Combine the sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until a dough forms. Set aside in the refrigerator while you melt the chocolate. (Photos 1 & 2)
- Add the chocolate chips and oil to a microwave-safe container. Microwave for 45 seconds, then stir if the mixture is clumpy and not smooth; microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. (Photos 3 & 4)
- Add 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate in the bottom of each cup and tilt the silicone liners to coat the sides. (Photo 5)
- Remove the peanut filling from the fridge and separate it into 10 balls. Flatten each ball into a puck shape and place it in the muffin liner on top of the chocolate. Top each peanut butter layer equally with the remaining melted chocolate and tap to smooth. Ensure the cups are level and the peanut filling is covered. Allow the chocolate layer to harden at room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process. (Photos 6, 7 & 8)
- Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the cups from the liners and enjoy.
Recipe Tips
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality white chocolate and peanut butter to ensure the best taste and texture.
- Temperature Matters: To help the chocolate set quicker, ensure your peanut butter mixture is chilled before adding it to the melted chocolate.
- Silicone Molds: Silicone muffin liners are ideal as they make removing the finished peanut butter cups easier without breaking.
- Even Layers: To achieve even layers, smooth the chocolate and peanut butter layers with a small spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Avoid Overheating Chocolate: Heat the chocolate briefly to avoid burning and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Tap the Mold: Gently tap the muffin liners after adding the chocolate to remove air bubbles and create a smooth finish.
- Work Quickly: Once the chocolate is melted, work quickly to prevent it from hardening before you are done filling the molds.
- Customize Toppings: Before the chocolate fully sets, add your chosen toppings, such as sea salt, crushed nuts, or sprinkles, for added texture and flavor.
Storing Tips
If you plan to consume the peanut butter cups within a few days, storing them at room temperature in an airtight container is sufficient. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Place the peanut butter cups in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for longer storage. This will help keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Ensure the container is airtight to prevent the cups from absorbing any fridge odors.
Peanut butter cups can also be frozen for extended storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
While copycat peanut butter cups are delightful, pairing them with complementary items can enhance the experience. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor. Classic choices like vanilla or chocolate work well, but you can get creative with flavors like salted caramel or coffee.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a light and airy contrast to the rich chocolate and peanut butter.
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy your peanut butter cups with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth and bitterness of the coffee or the aromatic notes of tea can enhance the flavors of the sweet treat.
- Nut Mix: Serve alongside a small bowl of mixed nuts for a crunchy contrast. The variety of textures and flavors will add complexity to your dessert.
- Dessert Platter: Create a dessert platter with various treats, such as caramel cheesecake brownies, homemade cookies, and fruit slices. This allows guests to try a variety of flavors and textures.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with other nut butters, such as almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter, for a different flavor profile. Ensure the consistency is similar to peanut butter to ensure the filling sets properly.
To make vegan peanut butter cups, use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure the peanut butter you choose is free from any animal-derived ingredients. Also, substitute any butter in the recipe with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Absolutely. Add powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture if you prefer a sweeter filling. Start by adding one tablespoon at a time and tasting as you go to reach your desired sweetness level.
Ensure that all utensils and bowls are completely dry before melting the chocolate, as even a small amount of water can cause it to seize. Microwave the chocolate in short intervals and stir regularly to avoid overheating.
Need More Dessert Recipes? Try These:
- Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Bars
- Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
- Best Cake Mix Cookie Bars With Chocolate Chips
- Kit Kat Fudge
- Easy Oreos Chocolate Chip Chewy Cookies Recipe
- See all our dessert recipes!
Homemade White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- ¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar
- ¾ cup (193 ½ g) peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups (396 g) white chocolate bark shredded
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Combine the sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until a dough forms. Set aside in the refrigerator while you melt the chocolate.3/4 cup powdered sugar,3/4 cup peanut butter,1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Add the chocolate chips and oil to a microwave-safe container. Microwave for 45 seconds, then stir if the mixture is clumpy and not smooth; microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.2 tablespoon vegetable oil,3 cups white chocolate bark
- Add 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate in the bottom of each cup and tilt the silicone liners to coat the sides.
- Remove the peanut filling from the fridge and separate it into 10 balls. Flatten each ball into a puck shape and place it in the muffin liner on top of the chocolate. Top each peanut butter layer equally with the remaining melted chocolate and tap to smooth. Ensure the cups are level and the peanut filling is covered. Allow the chocolate layer to harden at room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
- Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the cups from the liners and enjoy.
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality white chocolate and peanut butter to ensure the best taste and texture.
- Temperature Matters: To help the chocolate set quicker, make sure your peanut butter mixture is chilled before adding it to the melted chocolate.
- Silicone Molds: Silicone muffin liners are ideal as they make removing the finished peanut butter cups easier without breaking.
- Even Layers: To achieve even layers, smooth the chocolate and peanut butter layers with a small spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Avoid Overheating Chocolate: Heat the chocolate briefly to avoid burning and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Tap the Mold: Gently tap the muffin liners after adding the chocolate to remove air bubbles and create a smooth finish.
- Work Quickly: Once the chocolate is melted, work quickly to prevent it from hardening before you are done filling the molds.
- Customize Toppings: Before the chocolate fully sets, add your chosen toppings, such as sea salt, crushed nuts, or sprinkles, for added texture and flavor.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Enter your information below, and I’ll send it straight to your inbox! Plus, you’ll get complimentary gifts!
Nutrition Information
Hungry for more?
Follow me on Pinterest and make sure to comment below!
Or any other delicious recipes on my site? If so, please leave a ★★★★★ star rating below and a 📝 comment sharing your thoughts!
To ensure you’re not missing a thing. Subscribe to my newsletter and follow along below!
