Imagine sinking your teeth into a delectable Vegan Peanut Butter Cup, where the rich taste of creamy peanut butter meets the luscious richness of dark chocolate. This delightful treat captures the essence of indulgence without any dairy or animal products, making it perfect for anyone craving a guilt-free dessert.
The combination of smooth, nutty peanut butter and the satisfying crunch of chocolate creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will keep you reaching for more. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, surprising a friend, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these cups are sure to bring a smile to your face.
What’s even better? They are quick and easy to whip up in your kitchen, requiring minimal ingredients. In this article, you will learn step-by-step how to create your own batch of these irresistible Vegan Peanut Butter Cups that are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
Indulge in a delicious treat that brings joy without compromising your dietary choices:
- Quick to make — Whip these up in under 30 minutes, making them an easy last-minute dessert.
- Kid-approved — Perfect for little hands, these cups are a hit with children and adults alike.
- Minimal cleanup — Just a few mixing bowls and a muffin tin, leaving you more time to enjoy your treats.
- Healthy indulgence — Made with wholesome ingredients, these cups satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
- Budget-friendly — Utilize simple ingredients that won’t break the bank while providing delicious flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep — Make a batch in advance, so you always have a healthy snack on hand.
- Impressive for guests — Serve these decadent treats at gatherings and watch everyone rave about them.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
Optional Garnish
- 1/4 cup crushed nuts (such as peanuts or almonds) (optional)
- Sea salt flakes (for sprinkle) (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Silicone cupcake molds or paper liners (for shaping cups)
- Medium mixing bowl (for combining peanut butter filling)
- Spatula (for spreading chocolate and filling)
- Small saucepan (for heating ingredients if using a double boiler)
- Refrigerator (for setting the cups)
How to Make Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
Prepare the Chocolate Layer
- Melt the chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, add dairy-free chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth, about 1-2 minutes total.
- Grease the muffin tin. Lightly grease a muffin tin with coconut oil to prevent sticking. You can also use cupcake liners for easier removal.
- Add the first layer of chocolate. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each muffin cup, filling it about 1/3 full. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly along the bottom.
- Chill the chocolate layer. Place the muffin tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm to the touch.
Make the Peanut Butter Filling
- Combine peanut butter and sweetener. In a medium bowl, mix together peanut butter, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the vanilla. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated, ensuring a sweet and rich flavor.
Assemble and Finish
- Scoop the peanut butter mixture. Remove the muffin tin from the freezer. Dollop about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter filling on top of the hardened chocolate layer in each cup.
- Cover with remaining chocolate. Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling, ensuring it’s completely covered. Use a spoon to smooth the top if needed.
- Chill the cups again. Return the muffin tin to the freezer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set and firm.
- Remove and serve. Carefully pop the peanut butter cups out of the muffin tin. Enjoy immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips for the Best Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
- Use high-quality peanut butter — Opt for natural peanut butter with minimal ingredients (peanuts and salt) for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the coconut oil — Adding coconut oil helps the chocolate to set properly. If you want a richer chocolate, use dark chocolate chips.
- Avoid lumps in chocolate — Melt your chocolate slowly over low heat or in a microwave at 20-second intervals to prevent burning.
- Chill between layers — After pouring the first layer of chocolate, chill the cups briefly before adding the peanut butter filling to create distinct layers.
- Experiment with sweeteners — If you’re avoiding refined sugars, substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
- Don’t overfill — Leave a little space when adding the peanut butter filling to ensure the chocolate layer covers it completely.
Variations to Try
- Almond butter cups — Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a nutty twist.
- Chili chocolate version — Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the melted chocolate for a spicy kick.
- Coconut crunch — Mix shredded coconut into the peanut butter filling for added texture and flavor.
- Minty fresh — Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the chocolate for a refreshing mint flavor.
How to Store Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
Room Temperature: Vegan Peanut Butter Cups can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days. Make sure they are kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Refrigerator: For extended freshness, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will help maintain their texture and prevent them from getting too soft.
Freezer: They freeze well! Individually wrap each cup in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
While these peanut butter cups are best enjoyed cold, if you prefer them slightly warm, place them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can make the filling and chocolate coating in advance. Prepare the peanut butter filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before assembling your cups.
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving. Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
| Serving Size | 1 peanut butter cup |
| Calories | 100 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter in this recipe. Keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly, but it still provides a delicious, nutty taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, these vegan peanut butter cups are naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the chocolate used is also gluten-free. Always check the labels for any hidden gluten ingredients.
How should I store my peanut butter cups?
Store your vegan peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two weeks, but the texture is best enjoyed within the first week.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can double the ingredients to make more peanut butter cups. Just ensure you have a larger pan or enough molds to accommodate the increased volume.
Why did my peanut butter mixture turn out too runny?
If your peanut butter mixture is too runny, it may be due to using a natural peanut butter that has a lot of oil. Try refrigerating the mixture for a bit to help it firm up before layering it into the chocolate cups.
What goes well with vegan peanut butter cups?
These peanut butter cups pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, almond milk, or even a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these peanut butter cups ahead of time. They store well in the fridge, making them a great option for meal prep or prepping for gatherings.
Final Thoughts
These Vegan Peanut Butter Cups are not only a delight to the taste buds but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself, sharing with friends at a cozy gathering, or looking for a healthy dessert option, these cups truly fit the bill.
We invite you to try this delicious recipe and discover how easy it is to enjoy a decadent treat without any animal products. If you love it (and we’re sure you will!), please leave a comment with your thoughts or rating. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media, and bookmark the recipe for later! Enjoy every bite!