These peanut butter cups are a delightfully messy and nostalgic treat made with melting chocolate and creamy peanut butter. The process involves melting, pouring, and chilling to create a soft, chocolate-coated exterior with a rich, salty center, resulting in a slightly imperfect but irresistibly indulgent dessert.
1 cupouncedark chocolate or chocolate chipspreferably high quality
1/2 cupcupnatural peanut buttercreamy or chunky based on preference
1/4 teaspoonteaspoonsea saltfor sprinkling on top
1 teaspoonvanilla extractvanilla extractoptional, for added warmth
Instructions
Gently melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring often until smooth and glossy, around 45°C (113°F).
Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each cavity of your silicone mold, swirling to coat the sides evenly. Chill for about 5 minutes to set slightly.
Remove the mold from the fridge and add a dollop of peanut butter in the center of each cavity, leaving a little room at the top.
Cover the peanut butter with more melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully sealed and no peanut butter is exposed. Gently tap the mold on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each cup for added flavor contrast.
Refrigerate the mold for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is fully set and shiny.
Gently pop the peanut butter cups out of the mold and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Enjoy your homemade peanut butter cups, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
Feel free to experiment with toppings like crushed nuts or a drizzle of caramel. For a dairy-free version, use vegan chocolate and natural peanut butter.