These Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cups are the perfect treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers! They feature a creamy peanut butter center surrounded by rich chocolate and a delightful crunchy layer.
Making these cups is a breeze! Just melt, mix, and pour into molds. I love keeping them in the freezer for a cool snack anytime. They never last long in my house! 🍫🥜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Creamy Peanut Butter: This is the star of the show! You can also use crunchy peanut butter for added texture or shift to almond or cashew butter for a nut-free option.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work well to balance flavors. If you’re aiming for no added sugars, consider using a sugar-free syrup instead or mashed bananas for a healthier touch.
Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate gives a rich flavor, but semi-sweet is a great choice too. If you’re dairy-free, opt for dairy-free chocolate chips. You can even use white chocolate if you want a different twist!
Crispy Rice Cereal: This is essential for crunch. If you need a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free crispy rice cereal or swap in crushed graham crackers or nuts for that crunchiness.
How Do I Get a Perfect Chocolate Shell?
The chocolate shell is key for holding everything together! To make sure it hardens just right, follow these simple steps:
- After melting chocolate, spread it evenly in the muffin tin, letting it coat the sides.
- Freeze the cups for 10-15 minutes, which helps the chocolate firm up nicely.
- Be careful not to rush—allow it to chill completely before adding the filling!
With these tips, you’ll get a lovely, sturdy shell that complements your crunchy treats perfectly!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (if peanut butter is unsalted)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
For Crunch:
- 1/2 cup crispy rice cereal or puffed rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30-45 minutes for chilling. You’ll have tasty Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cups ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Peanut Butter Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter with the honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth and well-mixed. If your peanut butter isn’t salted, add a pinch of salt for extra flavor. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the chocolate.
2. Create the Chocolate Shell:
Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes in total.
3. Set Up the Muffin Tin:
Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners. Using a spoon, drop about a teaspoon of melted chocolate into each muffin cup. Spread the chocolate up the sides and across the bottom to create a shell. Place the muffin tin in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to let the chocolate harden.
4. Add the Peanut Butter Layer:
Once the chocolate shell has hardened, remove the tin from the freezer. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture into each chocolate shell, filling it generously.
5. Prepare the Crunch Topping:
Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips and let it cool slightly, ensuring it remains pourable. In a separate bowl, mix the crispy rice cereal with the melted chocolate until the cereal is well-coated.
6. Assemble the Cups:
Spoon the chocolate-covered cereal mixture over the peanut butter layer in each cup. Press it down gently to compact the mixture.
7. Final Chill:
Place the entire muffin tin back in the refrigerator or freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the cups are completely firm.
8. Enjoy!
After the cups have set, carefully remove them from the muffin tin. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cups! They make for a great snack or dessert. For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to maintain their texture.
Happy snacking! 🍫🥜
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter! Just keep in mind that it may be a bit runnier than creamy peanut butter, so ensure you mix it well with the sweetener to achieve a smooth filling. If it’s too thin, you can add a bit more powdered sugar or reduce the amount of sweetener.
What Can I Substitute for Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you need a substitute for honey or maple syrup, you can use agave syrup, coconut nectar, or even powdered sugar mixed with a little water for a thicker consistency. Just remember that the flavor might vary slightly!
How Do I Store Leftovers Properly?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for longer storage. If freezing, it might help to layer parchment paper between the cups to prevent sticking.
Can I Make These Cups Vegan?
Absolutely! To make the cups vegan, use dairy-free chocolate chips and maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener. You’ll have a delicious vegan treat that everyone will enjoy!
