Get ready to elevate your Easter celebration with these irresistible homemade peanut butter cups that are so delicious, they'll make the Easter Bunny jealous! Imagine biting into a perfect blend of rich dark chocolate and creamy peanut butter, with a hint of sweetness that will transport you to dessert heaven. These aren't just any ordinary treats – they're a magical combination of simple ingredients that anyone can make, turning your kitchen into a gourmet chocolate factory in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
Instructions
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper cupcake liners, ensuring they are evenly placed and smooth.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and smooth.
- If using graham crackers, crush them into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs into the peanut butter mixture for added texture, if desired.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent burning.
- Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each muffin liner, creating a thin base layer. Gently tilt and rotate the tin to ensure even coverage.
- Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate base to set and harden.
- Remove the tin from the refrigerator and add a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture on top of the chocolate layer, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the peanut butter layer with additional melted chocolate, ensuring complete coverage and a smooth top.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional crushed graham crackers or decorative Easter-themed sprinkles on top for festive decoration.
- Refrigerate the peanut butter cups for 15-20 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set and firm.
- Once set, remove the cups from the refrigerator and carefully peel away the paper liners before serving.
- Store the Easter Peanut Butter Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Chocolate Melting Magic: Use a double boiler or carefully microwave your chocolate to prevent burning. Stir frequently and be patient!
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your chocolate is completely set by chilling in the refrigerator. This creates that satisfying snap when you bite into the cup.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While optional, crushed graham crackers or festive Easter sprinkles can take your peanut butter cups to the next level of deliciousness.
- Smooth Operator: When mixing peanut butter ingredients, blend thoroughly to create a consistent texture that will make each bite perfect.
- Storage Secret: Keep these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and freshness for up to a week – if they last that long!Pro Tip: For a truly professional look, use a small spoon or piping bag to create neat, even layers of chocolate and peanut butter.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg
