Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Vanilla Cream

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Vanilla Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup milk chocolate chips; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch of salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I absolutely love making my own peanut butter cups at home! There’s something so satisfying about combining creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate, and when you add a touch of homemade vanilla cream, it elevates the experience to a whole new level. This recipe is simple yet incredibly rewarding, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests. The best part? You can customize the sweetness and creativity of the filling to suit your taste, making these treats truly your own.

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:30:34.751Z

When I first attempted to make peanut butter cups, I was surprised by how easy it was to recreate my favorite candy. One tip I discovered was to let the chocolate cool slightly before pouring it into the molds; this gives it a nice shine and prevents the layers from bleeding into each other. The addition of homemade vanilla cream not only provides a smooth contrast but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Experimenting with different nut butter varieties has also been a fun journey for me. Whether it’s almond butter for a unique twist or classic peanut butter, each version brings a delightful change to the taste. Pairing these with a sprinkle of sea salt on top is the icing on the cake for that perfect sweet and savory blend!

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cups
Decadent layers of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter
Homemade vanilla cream adds a delightful surprise
Perfectly portioned for sharing or indulging yourself

The Magic of Chocolate and Peanut Butter

Combining chocolate and peanut butter is a timeless classic, but the ratios can greatly affect your final product. For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. This substitution will impart a deeper taste and balance beautifully with the sweetness of the peanut butter filling. Always ensure to melt the chocolate slowly to avoid burning; using a double boiler is a great technique if you're wary of your microwave's strength.

For the peanut butter mixture, smooth and creamy peanut butter works best, as it blends seamlessly with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Natural peanut butter can also be used; just be aware that the texture may be slightly grainier due to the lack of stabilizers. Achieve the right consistency by mixing until it is silky and cohesive, ensuring every bite is just as delightful as the last.

Perfecting the Layering Process

Layering is crucial in making peanut butter cups. Pouring chocolate into the liners should form an even base but avoid overfilling, which can lead to overflow when adding peanut butter. Aim for about a quarter-inch layer of chocolate. After chilling, if the chocolate doesn't feel firm to the touch after 10 minutes, give it an extra five minutes before adding the peanut butter mixture to prevent any mixing of layers.

When it comes to the final chocolate layer, make sure to fully cover the peanut butter to seal in moisture and flavors. If the topping chocolate is too hot, it may melt the peanut butter layer underneath, leading to a less appealing layered look. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly before pouring it on; it should pour smoothly without being overly hot.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For the Cups

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt

For the Vanilla Cream

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all your ingredients are ready before you start melting the chocolate.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your homemade peanut butter cups:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In another bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Place cupcake liners in a muffin tin. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, just enough to cover the bottom, and then refrigerate for about 10 minutes.

Add the Peanut Butter

Once the chocolate has set, spoon in the peanut butter mixture evenly into each cup and smooth it out.

Top with More Chocolate

Cover the peanut butter layer with the remaining melted chocolate and return to the fridge until set, about 20 minutes.

Make the Vanilla Cream

While the cups are setting, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.

Serve

Once the cups have hardened, remove them from the cupcake liners, top with vanilla cream, and enjoy!

Refrigerate any leftovers for a sweet treat later!

Pro Tips

For best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting, as this ensures a smooth texture throughout.

Storage Tips

Homemade peanut butter cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. The cool temperature helps retain their structure while keeping the chocolate's shine intact. If you’d like to prepare these ahead of time, consider freezing them. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

When ready to enjoy refrigerated or frozen cups, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. This short waiting period allows for a perfect texture that enhances the flavor experience; they’ll be deliciously creamy rather than rock hard.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize your peanut butter cup filling! You can mix in ingredients like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and texture. Adding crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty twist can provide a delightful crunch that pairs harmoniously with the creamy filling.

If you're looking to make a healthier version, try substituting almond butter or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter. This will not only add different flavors but also cater to nut allergies, making these treats more inclusive. Additionally, using dark chocolate chips with lower sugar content can help match your dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give a richer flavor and can be a great alternative.

→ How do I store leftover peanut butter cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these peanut butter cups?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

→ What other fillings can I try?

You can experiment with almond butter, Nutella, or even a layer of fruit preserves for a unique twist.