How to Make the Perfect Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
American · Easy · 50 min · 12 servings
These vegan peanut butter cups are a homemade plant-based version of the classic candy with a smooth peanut butter filling encased in rich dark chocolate. This simple vegan dessert requires no baking and comes together in under 30 minutes of active time.
Why this recipe works
This Vegan Peanut Butter Cups recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 50 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 195 calories with 4g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 cups vegan dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 0.75 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Combine the vegan dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals stirring between each until fully melted and smooth.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
In a bowl stir together the peanut butter powdered sugar vanilla extract and salt until a smooth thick paste forms.
Step 3: Line and Fill Bottoms
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate into each cup spreading it up the sides slightly. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Place a small flat disc of peanut butter filling into the center of each chocolate cup leaving a small border around the edge.
Step 5: Seal with Chocolate and Set
Spoon remaining melted chocolate over each cup covering the filling completely. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until fully set before removing from liners.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- peanut butter → almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option
- powdered sugar → maple syrup for a less processed sweetener though the filling will be softer
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not making the chocolate layers thick enough which causes the cups to crack and break when removed from the liner
- Using sweetened peanut butter which makes the filling overly sweet and alters the texture
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 195 calories, 4g protein, 16g carbs, 13g fat, 2g fiber.
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