Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups (Printer-Friendly Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Chocolate and Base
01 -
12 ounces high-quality chocolate bar (milk or semisweet, depending on preference)
02 -
20 miniature muffin or cupcake liners
→ Peanut Butter Filling
03 -
1 cup creamy peanut butter
04 -
3/4 cup powdered sugar
05 -
2 tablespoons finely crushed graham cracker
06 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 -
2 tablespoons salted butter, softened
# Let's Cook!:
01 -
If using a chocolate bar, chop it into small pieces. Place 1 1/2 cups of chocolate in a large microwave-safe bowl, reserving 1/2 cup for later. Microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until completely melted and smooth.
02 -
Add the reserved 1/2 cup of chocolate to the melted chocolate. Stir frequently until all of the chocolate is completely incorporated and melted. This process helps temper the chocolate for a better shine and snap.
03 -
Place 20 foil miniature muffin liners on a baking sheet. Fill each liner about one-quarter full with the tempered chocolate. Using a small pastry brush or clean paintbrush, brush the chocolate up the sides of each liner to create a cup shape. Allow to set at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
04 -
While the chocolate cups are setting, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, finely crushed graham crackers, vanilla extract, and softened butter for 4-5 minutes until smooth and well combined.
05 -
Once the chocolate cups have set, place a small ball of the peanut butter filling in each cup and gently press down, leaving room at the top for the chocolate layer.
06 -
Spoon more melted chocolate over each cup to cover the peanut butter filling completely. Smooth the top of each cup with the back of a spoon. Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature, or speed up the process by placing in the refrigerator.
07 -
Once set, carefully peel off the liners if desired (or leave them on). Store covered in the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
# Recipe Notes:
01 -
The secret ingredient in these peanut butter cups is the graham cracker crumbs, which add a subtle texture and flavor that makes them even better than store-bought versions.
02 -
These homemade peanut butter cups can be stored for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container, though they rarely last that long!