Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Layers:

• 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (or a combination of both)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) graham cracker crumbs (optional, for added texture)
• 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate:
   • Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or use silicone cupcake molds.
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop.
2. Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs (if using), and salt until well combined and smooth. The mixture should be thick and pliable.
3. Assemble the Bottom Chocolate Layer:
   • Spoon about 1 to 2 teaspoons of melted chocolate into each paper liner. Use a spoon or the back of a teaspoon to spread the chocolate evenly across the bottom of each cup.
   • Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
4. Add the Peanut Butter Filling:
   • Once the bottom chocolate layer is set, scoop out about 1 to 2 teaspoons of the peanut butter mixture and roll it into a small ball. Flatten it slightly into a disc and place it on top of the hardened chocolate layer in each cup. Gently press down to ensure it covers most of the chocolate base but leaves a small border around the edges.
5. Top with More Chocolate:
   • Spoon additional melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, covering it completely. Tap the muffin tin on the counter gently to help the chocolate spread evenly and eliminate any air bubbles.
6. Chill and Set:
   • Place the filled muffin tin back in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
7. Serve and Store:
   • Once set, remove the peanut butter cups from the muffin tin and peel off the paper liners. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Tips:

• For Darker Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a less sweet treat.
• For Texture: Adding graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter filling adds a nice texture and flavor.
• Customization: Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the final chocolate layer for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Storage: These homemade treats can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks or frozen for up to two months.

Enjoy your homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate!