Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and smooth, high-quality chocolate. These are easy to make at home and can be customized with different types of chocolate or additional fillings like sea salt or crushed nuts for added texture. Here’s a recipe for homemade gourmet chocolate peanut butter cups that will make you want to skip the store-bought version!
Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural peanut butter works great too)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, if you like a salted peanut butter filling)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate (around 60-70% cocoa) or milk chocolate (for a sweeter version)
- 2 oz semisweet chocolate (for a smoother, more balanced coating)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, helps the chocolate stay glossy and smooth)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sea salt (a few sprinkles for a salted caramel effect)
- Crushed peanuts (for extra crunch, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- If you want a salted peanut butter filling, add a pinch of salt and mix it in.
- Refrigerate the peanut butter mixture for about 30 minutes to firm it up slightly. This makes it easier to scoop and shape later.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, break up the dark chocolate and semisweet chocolate into small pieces.
- Add the coconut oil (if using) and microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler on the stove.
- Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize.
3. Prepare the Molds:
- Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners or use silicone molds for a more polished look.
- Pour a small amount of the melted chocolate (about 1-2 tablespoons) into the bottom of each muffin liner or mold. Use the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate up the sides of the liner, creating a nice chocolate base and shell.
- Place the muffin tin in the fridge for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.
4. Form the Peanut Butter Cups:
- Once the chocolate base is firm, take the chilled peanut butter mixture and scoop about 1 tablespoon into the center of each chocolate base. Roll the peanut butter into a small ball or flatten it slightly, then place it in the center of the chocolate base.
- Gently press the peanut butter down into the chocolate base to create a nice, even layer.
5. Top with More Chocolate:
- Spoon more melted chocolate on top of each peanut butter-filled cup, spreading it evenly to cover the peanut butter completely.
- Use a spatula or spoon to smooth the top, making sure the peanut butter is fully covered in chocolate.
6. Chill the Peanut Butter Cups:
- Refrigerate the chocolate peanut butter cups for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set and firm.
7. Garnish (Optional):
- Once the cups are set, you can garnish them with a light sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
- You can also sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch and texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chocolate is fully hardened, remove the peanut butter cups from the molds or liners.
- Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Perfect Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups:
- Chocolate Quality: The chocolate you use will make a big difference in the taste, so choose high-quality chocolate for the best results. Dark chocolate gives a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the peanut butter, but milk chocolate can be used if you prefer a sweeter treat.
- Storage: These chocolate peanut butter cups are best stored in the refrigerator to keep them firm. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just thaw them in the fridge before serving.
- Customizations: You can add flavors like cinnamon, chili powder, or instant coffee to the peanut butter mixture for a fun twist. You could also mix in chopped chocolate chunks or toffee bits for extra texture.
