Better Than Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Are you looking for a sweet treat that’s just as delicious as classic peanut butter cups but made right at home? This recipe for Better Than Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups redefines indulgence! With a creamy, dreamy peanut butter filling nestled between layers of luscious chocolate, you’ll soon find yourself reaching for these delightful bites time and again. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a snack to satisfy your chocolate cravings, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Why you’ll love this dish
Why settle for store-bought when you can whip up these heavenly treats in your own kitchen? This recipe is not only a budget-friendly option, but it’s also quick and easy, making it ideal for any occasion. You can make them for a fun family movie night, as a sweet take-home gift for friends, or just because you deserve a little indulgence. Kids and adults alike will adore the rich flavors and creamy texture, ensuring they’re perfect for every palate.
"These are hands down better than the originals! I made them for a potluck and everyone asked for the recipe. Thank you for such a fantastic and easy treat!"
The cooking process explained
Preparing Better Than Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups is a breeze. The process involves mixing simple ingredients to form a rich peanut butter filling, melting chocolate, and assembling your edible creations. As you follow along, expect to taste a delightful balance of sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy. The best part? You can have these prepared and chilling in under an hour! Let’s dive into how to create this delicious treat.
Gather these items
Before you get started, let’s ensure you have all the essentials on hand:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or substitute with almond butter if you prefer) (125g)
- 1 Tbsp. softened butter (optional but adds creaminess) (15g)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (you might need a bit more or less to achieve the right consistency) (125g)
- 1 cup milk chocolate (can use a mix of chocolate bars and chips or candy melts) (175g)
- 1 cup dark chocolate (similarly, mix bars and chips as desired) (175g)
- 1/2 tsp. salt (2g)
Feel free to experiment with nut butter varieties or chocolates based on what you have available!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, salt, and softened butter.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve a dough that resembles "playdough." It should form a disc without sticking to your fingers.
- Melt your chosen chocolate using either the microwave in bursts of 25 seconds, stirring in between, or a double boiler method (a metal bowl over simmering water).
- Fill the bottom of each paper cup with a layer of melted chocolate.
- Shape the peanut butter mixture into discs and place one on top of the chocolate layer in each cup.
- Pour more melted chocolate over the top to create the final layer of your peanut butter cups.
- Place the filled cups in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes until the chocolate sets.
- Once firm, enjoy your homemade deliciousness!
Best ways to enjoy it
These peanut butter cups shine all on their own, but you can elevate your serving game with a few creative ideas. Try serving them alongside a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a special treat, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the tops before serving. You could even pair them with fresh fruits like strawberries or sliced bananas for a delightful contrast!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your homemade Better Than Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re making a larger batch or want to indulge later, you can freeze them! Just make sure to separate each cup with parchment paper to avoid sticking, and they should last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor—choosing both milk and dark chocolate creates a rich, complex taste.
- If your filling isn’t firming up enough, add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.
- During assembly, use a small cookie scoop to help portion the peanut butter filling evenly.
- Be patient while melting chocolate; stirring regularly helps prevent it from seizing up.
Creative twists
Feel free to change things up! How about using white chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a different flavor? You could also add crushed pretzels or nuts to the peanut butter filling for a delightful crunch. For those who prefer a healthier option, try swapping out some of the sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup!
Common questions
-
How long does it take to make these?
From start to finish, expect about 10-15 minutes of prep time plus chilling time. -
Can I use other nut butters?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter makes great alternatives. -
How do I know when they’re ready to eat?
They should be firm to the touch and the chocolate fully set before enjoying. -
Can I store these at room temperature?
Yes, as long as they are placed in an airtight container, they stay fresh at room temperature for about a week. -
What should I do if my chocolate seizes?
If your chocolate clumps up, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or coconut oil to help smooth it out.
Final thoughts
Give this recipe a try—that creamy, chocolatey goodness is waiting for you! I’m sure you’ll love making (and eating) these Better Than Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups as much as I do. If you do, please let me know in the comments how it went. Happy indulging!
Better Than Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, salt, and softened butter.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve a dough that resembles 'playdough.'
- Melt your chosen chocolate using either the microwave in bursts of 25 seconds or a double boiler.
- Fill the bottom of each paper cup with a layer of melted chocolate.
- Shape the peanut butter mixture into discs and place one on top of the chocolate layer in each cup.
- Pour more melted chocolate over the top to create the final layer of your peanut butter cups.
- Place the filled cups in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes until the chocolate sets.
- Once firm, enjoy your homemade deliciousness!