Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Vegan Style

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Vegan Style
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan); 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 cup natural peanut butter; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first craved a classic treat, I realized I could make it at home in a healthier way. These Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Vegan Style are a delightful indulgence that satisfies my sweet tooth without compromising my values. By using simple, plant-based ingredients, I crafted a rich and creamy dessert that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether you're entertaining friends or treating yourself, these cups are sure to impress with their irresistible flavor.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:04:19.962Z

Last weekend, I decided to experiment with homemade peanut butter cups, aiming for a vegan twist on a classic favorite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen. Using dark chocolate enhances the flavor, while natural peanut butter gives these treats that creamy texture we all crave.

As I melted the chocolate and combined it with the peanut butter, I couldn’t help but smile at how easy it was to create something so satisfying. A crucial tip I discovered is to ensure the chocolate is fully tempered for that perfect snap, which elevates the entire eating experience. These homemade treats vanished within minutes!

        Why You'll Love These Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
        Decadent combination of rich chocolate and smooth peanut butter
Simple ingredients that are both vegan and delicious
Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these vegan peanut butter cups plays a crucial role in achieving their delightful taste and texture. The dark chocolate chips provide a rich, sweet layer, while the coconut oil ensures a silky smooth melt when combined. This fat not only enhances the chocolate's mouthfeel but also helps it set properly in the refrigerator. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, you can experiment with semi-sweet or even milk chocolate chips, although make sure they are vegan for this recipe.

The peanut butter filling is essential for the creamy center that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate shell. Using natural peanut butter, which contains just peanuts (and maybe salt), guarantees that you're not adding unnecessary sugars or oils. If you prefer a sweeter finish, don’t hesitate to adjust the maple syrup amount. An alternative for peanut butter could be almond or cashew butter, offering a unique twist while keeping the recipe plant-based.

Perfecting the Assembly

When assembling the cups, patience is key to achieving perfect layers. Ensure the melted chocolate is not too hot when spooning it into the muffin tin; this helps avoid melting the liner and maintains the integrity of the cups. By cooling the initial layer of chocolate before adding the peanut butter, you prevent the two from mixing, resulting in distinct layers that enhance the overall eating experience. Aim to refrigerate the cups for 15 minutes to allow for a solid base before adding the filling.

After adding the peanut butter, pour the remaining chocolate on top with care. Use a small spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it evenly across the top. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also ensures each bite has the perfect balance of chocolate to peanut butter. If you notice air bubbles forming, gently tap the muffin tin on the counter to release them, achieving a polished finish.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Shell

1 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan)
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1 cup natural peanut butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

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

Prepare the Cup Liners

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, just enough to coat the bottom, and refrigerate for about 10 minutes until set.

Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, and salt. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Assemble the Cups

Remove the muffin tin from the refrigerator. Spoon a generous amount of peanut butter filling into each chocolate-lined cup, then top with remaining melted chocolate to cover completely.

Chill and Enjoy

Return the muffin tin to the refrigerator and allow the cups to set for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious vegan peanut butter cups!

Make sure they're completely chilled before you bite into one!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider mixing in some crushed nuts into the peanut butter filling.

Storage Tips

These homemade vegan peanut butter cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cold helps maintain their firmness and prevents them from becoming too gooey. If you're making a larger batch, consider layering the cups between parchment paper to avoid them sticking together.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cups. Just make sure they are completely set and chilled before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the refrigerator for a few hours to thaw.

Serving Suggestions

These peanut butter cups make an excellent indulgent snack on their own, but you can elevate their presentation when serving guests. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vegan ice cream for a decadent dessert or serving them with fresh fruit like strawberries for a refreshing counterbalance. Drizzling with a bit of extra melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving can also create a gourmet touch.

Another fun serving idea is to use them in trifle or parfait desserts. Layer crumbled peanut butter cups with dairy-free yogurt and granola for a delightful breakfast or healthy treat. This adds texture and flavor while showcasing your homemade creations beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter works wonderfully as an alternative!

→ How long can I store these peanut butter cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?

You can try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

→ What chocolate do you recommend?

Look for high-quality dark chocolate that is labeled vegan.