Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 cup cashew butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Soft Planning

I absolutely love making my own peanut butter cups at home, especially when I use creamy cashew butter as a twist! This recipe brings together the goodness of chocolate and nutty flavors in a delightful treat that’s both easy to prepare and utterly satisfying. It’s a fun project that transforms a few simple ingredients into something special, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in during a quiet evening at home. Plus, there’s something rewarding about creating candy from scratch that always makes me feel accomplished.

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:34:34.858Z

When I first decided to make peanut butter cups, I never expected it to become a regular treat in my household. I was amazed at how simple the process was, combining chocolate with homemade cashew filling that’s creamy and dreamy. The method of melting chocolate and layering it thoughtfully gave me impressive results every single time.

I found that cooling the layers slightly before adding the next helped achieve perfect textural contrast and prevented sogginess. It’s these little tips that transformed my initial attempt into a masterpiece I proudly share with everyone!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate paired with rich cashew butter for a unique taste
Simple to make with minimal ingredients and equipment
Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with loved ones

      

Ingredient Insights

The star ingredient in this recipe, cashew butter, offers a rich, creamy texture that beautifully complements the dark chocolate. Unlike other nut butters that can be grainy, cashew butter blends to a silkier consistency which enhances the overall mouthfeel of the peanut butter cups. If you're looking for a nut butter alternative due to allergies, sunflower seed butter works wonders here too, mimicking the smooth texture and providing a nut-free option.

When selecting chocolate chips, I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao. This ensures a rich flavor that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cashew butter filling. Avoid chocolate labeled as 'compound chocolate' as it can contain lower quality fats and additives, leading to a less satisfying texture. For a sweeter treat, feel free to opt for milk chocolate, but adjust the powdered sugar in the filling according to your taste preference.

Technique Tips

When melting the chocolate, it's crucial to do so slowly to prevent seizing. Start with 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring in between until the mixture is glossy and fully melted. If preferred, you can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler. Just ensure the water does not touch the bowl containing the chocolate, as excess moisture can ruin your chocolate, leading to clumping or a grainy texture.

In step two, when molding the chocolate base, use a silicone mold for easy removal. If you notice the chocolate not adhering to the sides of the liner, try reheating it slightly and applying a second, thinner layer along the edges after the first layer has cooled. This trick not only adds a stylish touch but also creates a more robust foundation for your cashew filling.

Serving and Storage

Once they are fully set, these homemade peanut butter cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This makes them an excellent make-ahead treat for gatherings or a sweet addition to your snack stash. If you wish to enjoy them in a different format, you could crush them into bits and use them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt - a delicious way to elevate your dessert.

Feel free to get creative variations! You could add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet-and-salty delight. If desired, you could also incorporate flavors like espresso powder into the chocolate layer for a mocha twist. Experimenting with different nut butters or mix-ins, such as dried fruits or shredded coconut, will also yield delightful combinations that keep your homemade treats exciting and fresh.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Layer

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Cashew Butter Filling

1 cup cashew butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

All ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store.

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Layer

Melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Mold the Bottom Layer

Spoon a thin layer of melted chocolate into the bottom of each cup liner. Use a spoon to adjust the chocolate up the sides of the liner. Refrigerate for 10 minutes until firm.

Make the Cashew Filling

In a bowl, mix together cashew butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Spoon the filling into the center of each hardened chocolate base.

Top with More Chocolate

Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the cashew filling to cover. Tap the mold gently to release any air bubbles and smooth the top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for another 10-15 minutes until fully set. Once firm, remove from liners and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for a delicious treat anytime!

Pro Tips

Using high-quality chocolate elevates the flavor of these homemade treats immensely. Don't rush the cooling process
letting the layers set properly will give you the best texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your chocolate layer isn't firming up as expected, ensure that you have not added too much coconut oil. While it helps with smooth melting and pouring, an excess can cause the chocolate to remain soft. When melting, aim for a smooth, shiny texture and use a candy thermometer to check - it should ideally be around 90°F for a beautiful set.

Sometimes the cashew butter filling can be too thick; if this happens, simply add a teaspoon of coconut oil to help achieve a creamier consistency. Additionally, if the mixture seems too dry when combining cashew butter with powdered sugar, a splash of milk or cream can help adjust it to a smoother spreadable texture.

Scaling and Customizing Your Cups

This recipe is easily adaptable; if you want to make a smaller batch, simply halve the measurements. Conversely, to make a party-sized portion, double the ingredients and use larger molds, which will also reduce chilling time. If you use muffin tins, ensure to adjust the chocolate and filling layers accordingly, allowing at least 15-20 minutes for sufficient firming in a standard-size muffin liner.

For added flair, consider layering different flavors of nut butter - almond or hazelnut butter can create unique variations. Drizzle the tops with white chocolate for presentation, or dip them in crushed nuts for a bit of crunch. These simple changes can elevate your homemade cups just in time for special occasions or holidays!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or any other nut butter will work nicely for a different flavor.

→ How should I store the peanut butter cups?

They should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

→ What can I use instead of powdered sugar?

You can substitute with coconut sugar or confectioners' erythritol for a lower-sugar alternative.

→ Can these cups be made vegan?

Yes, if you use dairy-free chocolate, this recipe can easily be made vegan.