Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Maple Filling
Highlighted under: Modern Baking Ideas
I absolutely love making my own peanut butter cups, and this recipe with maple filling takes them to a whole new level! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is a classic, but when you add the sweetness of pure maple syrup, it transforms into something truly delightful. I enjoy preparing these cups as a fun treat for family gatherings or simply as a sweet indulgence during my movie nights at home. Trust me, they are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore!
When I first attempted to make peanut butter cups at home, I was surprised at how simple it was. I started experimenting with different fillings, and adding maple syrup to the peanut butter was a game-changer. The sweet and slightly smoky flavor balances beautifully with the chocolate coating, making each bite an experience to savor.
One thing I’ve learned is that using high-quality chocolate for the coating is essential. It not only enhances the taste but also gives a lovely sheen that makes the cups look irresistible. I recommend using dark chocolate for a rich contrast to the sweet maple filling, but semi-sweet chocolate works just as well!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet maple filling
- Creamy peanut butter that adds indulgence to every bite
- Customizable with different types of chocolate or nut butters
Understanding Ingredients
The star of these homemade peanut butter cups is the combination of creamy peanut butter and pure maple syrup. The peanut butter provides a rich, nutty flavor while the maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and complexity that complements the chocolate perfectly. I recommend using natural peanut butter for the best texture and flavor, as it usually contains fewer additives compared to conventional brands.
Choosing the right chocolate is crucial as well. Dark chocolate chips not only provide a robust flavor but also a satisfying contrast to the sweet filling. For a different taste, you could experiment with semi-sweet or even white chocolate, but keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the maple syrup accordingly.
Perfecting the Assembly
When assembling the cups, the temperature of your melted chocolate is key. If it's too hot, it can cause the peanut butter filling to melt slightly, making it hard to achieve distinct layers. Ideally, work with chocolate that has cooled slightly after melting but is still in a pourable state. This way, you create a clean separation between the layers without mixing.
Freezing each layer is essential to ensure the proper structure of the cups. The first freeze after coating the liners should be just about five minutes to achieve a shell that holds its shape without being fully set. Similarly, after filling with peanut butter, the final freeze of 10 minutes will solidify the entire cup and create the ideal texture when you bite into it.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cups
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
These ingredients will create a delightful treat that everyone will love!
Instructions
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Assemble the Cups
Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, tilting to coat the sides. Freeze for 5 minutes.
Add Filling
Remove from the freezer and fill each cup with the peanut butter mixture, leveling it off with a spatula.
Finish with Chocolate
Top each filled cup with the remaining melted chocolate, ensuring everything is covered, then freeze for another 10 minutes to set.
These cups are best enjoyed chilled, so keep them in the fridge until you're ready to indulge!
Pro Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding a handful of crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before freezing.
Storage and Shelf Life
These homemade peanut butter cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. They freeze beautifully and can last up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and you can enjoy them straight from the freezer or allow them to thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before indulging.
If you're expecting a crowd or want to make a batch for gifting, consider doubling the recipe. The assembly process remains the same; just ensure you have a larger muffin tin or multiple trays to hold all of them. I often prepare ahead of time for parties, which allows me to focus on other dishes without rushing.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun twist, consider serving these peanut butter cups alongside fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or strawberries, which can balance the richness with a bit of acidity. You could also sprinkle them with sea salt just before the final freeze for added flavor and visual appeal, enhancing the overall taste experience with that salty-sweet contrast.
Another great idea is to crumble a few cups over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a decadent dessert. You could even incorporate the peanut butter filling into other treats, like using it as a cake filling or mixing it into oatmeal, making it a versatile addition beyond just these cups.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but it may alter the richness of the cups.
→ How should I store these peanut butter cups?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for longer storage.
→ Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your maple syrup is pure without additives.
→ What can I substitute for peanut butter?
Almond or cashew butter works well as substitutes for a different flavor profile!
Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Maple Filling
I absolutely love making my own peanut butter cups, and this recipe with maple filling takes them to a whole new level! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is a classic, but when you add the sweetness of pure maple syrup, it transforms into something truly delightful. I enjoy preparing these cups as a fun treat for family gatherings or simply as a sweet indulgence during my movie nights at home. Trust me, they are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore!
Created by: Dorothy Finch
Recipe Type: Modern Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 cups
What You'll Need
For the Cups
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, tilting to coat the sides. Freeze for 5 minutes.
Remove from the freezer and fill each cup with the peanut butter mixture, leveling it off with a spatula.
Top each filled cup with the remaining melted chocolate, ensuring everything is covered, then freeze for another 10 minutes to set.
Extra Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding a handful of crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before freezing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 53mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g