Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Coconut Oil

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Coconut Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons coconut oil; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Daily Collection

I love making these homemade peanut butter cups with coconut oil because they are the perfect combination of creamy and crunchy. The rich peanut butter filling compliments the smooth, melted chocolate, while the coconut oil adds a delightful hint of tropical flavor. These treats are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to for satisfying my sweet tooth or impressing friends at gatherings. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into them makes enjoying these bites even better!

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:50:35.388Z

When I first tried making homemade peanut butter cups, I was amazed at how simple and delicious they turned out. The key is to balance the chocolate with the right amount of peanut butter, ensuring every bite has that perfect taste. Using coconut oil gives them a unique twist that's both flavorful and adds to the texture.

One tip I discovered was to let the chocolate cool slightly before adding the peanut butter. This prevents the filling from melting into the chocolate too much, preserving that delightful layer effect. Trust me; the end result is worth the small extra step!

        Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cups
        Creamy peanut butter filling that melts in your mouth
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
The addition of coconut oil brings a unique flavor
Great for parties or a quick sweet treat

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Layer

The chocolate layer is essential for the overall texture and flavor of your peanut butter cups. When melting the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil, it's crucial to do so in intervals to prevent scorching. Begin with 30 seconds in the microwave, followed by stirring. If the chocolate isn't fully melted after two or three intervals, heat for an additional 10 to 15 seconds at a time. The mixture should be glossy and smooth, free of lumps, which ensures an appealing finish on the cups.

Using high-quality chocolate can elevate your peanut butter cups significantly. Look for chocolate that lists cocoa butter as one of the top ingredients for the best flavor and meltability. You can also adjust how rich your chocolate layer is by using semi-sweet chips if dark chocolate seems too intense. Just remember, the combination of the chocolate and coconut oil should mimic a thin chocolate shell once set, so aim for a consistency that's pourable but thick enough to hold its shape.

Crafting the Perfect Peanut Butter Filling

The peanut butter filling is where you can truly customize your cups. For a more decadent flavor, consider using a natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils. This will give a richer taste profile, and the consistency should achieve a smooth and spreadable texture once blended with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If you're looking for lower sugar alternatives, substitute the powdered sugar with a sugar-free alternative like erythritol or coconut sugar.

Don't be afraid to play with add-ins for the peanut butter mixture! Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavor, and for those who enjoy a crunch, mixing in a handful of chopped peanuts or other nuts can add a delightful texture contrast. Keep the filling slightly softer than your desired texture, as it will firm up when chilled, resulting in that perfect creamy bite when you're ready to enjoy them.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your homemade peanut butter cups are set, they can be stored in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for about a week, but you can also freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are properly wrapped or in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. To serve, allow them to thaw slightly at room temperature for a few minutes; this will help enhance their creamy texture.

If you're planning to serve these at a gathering, consider a fun presentation! Placing them on a decorative platter or wrapping them in colorful foil can add a festive touch. You can also drizzle some extra melted chocolate over the top before chilling for a decorative finish. Feel free to experiment with toppings, such as a light sprinkle of sea salt or shredded coconut for added flair—these little details can take your homemade treats to the next level.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Homemade Peanut Butter Cups

For the Chocolate Layer

1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients and prepare to indulge!

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Chocolate Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

Create the First Chocolate Layer

Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate into mini cupcake liners, filling them just enough to cover the bottom. Place in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set.

Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In another bowl, mix together the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined. It should be smooth and spreadable.

Assemble the Cups

Remove the molds from the refrigerator. Place a dollop of the peanut butter mixture on top of the set chocolate layer in each liner, spreading it gently.

Top with More Chocolate

Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling, ensuring it's completely covered. Return to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to set.

Enjoy!

Once set, remove the peanut butter cups from the liners and enjoy your delicious homemade treat!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, try mixing in some crushed nuts or sea salt on top before serving. This will elevate the flavor profile and texture of your homemade cups!

Variations to Try

If you want to change things up, consider using different types of nut butters. Almond, cashew, or even sunflower seed butter can create delightful new flavors while maintaining the same creamy consistency. Each of these alternatives interacts differently with the chocolate layer, offering a unique twist on the classic peanut butter cup taste.

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the chocolate layer or a dash of cinnamon to the peanut butter filling. These small but impactful changes can enhance the depth of flavor without overwhelming the original recipe. It's a fun way to personalize your treat while experimenting with taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your chocolate layer isn’t setting properly, it may be that the chocolate was overheated or not combined well with the coconut oil. Always ensure that your chocolate is melted but still retains that smooth, glossy quality. If you've added too much coconut oil, it can result in an overly soft layer, so stick closely to the recommended ratio.

Another common problem could be the peanut butter filling not holding its shape. If this happens, consider adding more powdered sugar for an added bind or using a thicker variety of nut butter. The consistency of the peanut butter used is key; natural varieties with oil separation may require more sugar to stabilize as they set.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter makes a great substitute and adds a different flavor to the cups.

→ How long do these peanut butter cups last?

They can last up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, simply use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your peanut butter is vegan-friendly.

→ What if I don't have cupcake liners?

You can use a silicone mold or simply grease a muffin tin lightly with oil before pouring in the chocolate.