Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Vegan Style

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Vegan Style
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan-friendly); 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I decided to make these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Vegan Style, I knew I wanted a treat that wouldn’t compromise on taste or texture. It’s amazing how simple ingredients like dark chocolate and creamy peanut butter can come together to create such a delightful snack. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making them an irresistible indulgence. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I love how I can enjoy these treats guilt-free knowing they’re plant-based and made from wholesome ingredients.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:25:12.990Z

Creating these vegan peanut butter cups was a delightful adventure in the kitchen! I experimented with different ratios of chocolate to peanut butter, and I found that using equal parts yielded a creamy and rich texture that melts beautifully in your mouth. The key is to temper the chocolate gently to avoid scorching it, which can ruin the flavor.

I also discovered that adding a pinch of sea salt on top just before setting makes the flavors pop even more. My friends devoured them at our recent gathering, and everyone was surprised to learn they were vegan!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy, nutty peanut butter
Perfectly balanced sweetness that satisfies your cravings
Easy to make and great for sharing with friends

      

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

Using high-quality dark chocolate is essential for achieving the rich, indulgent flavor many love in peanut butter cups. Look for vegan-friendly chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa, as it not only provides a deep chocolate taste but also melts beautifully. If you opt for a lesser quality chocolate, you may end up with a waxy texture that detracts from the overall experience, so investing in good chocolate makes a noticeable difference.

Natural peanut butter is another key ingredient in this recipe. Be sure to choose a version that contains only peanuts and salt for the best flavor and texture. Avoid brands with added sugars or oils, as they can alter the creaminess of the filling. If you have a nut allergy or want to experiment, try sun butter or almond butter as substitutions, but keep in mind they will slightly change the taste.

Perfecting Your Peanut Butter Cups

When melting chocolate, it's important to do so gently to avoid burning. Microwave in 30-second increments as described, and stir well after each interval until the chocolate is glossy and fully melted. If you notice any lumps, keep stirring; residual heat will often melt them. If you're using a stovetop, utilize a double boiler for more control, ensuring the water doesn't touch the bowl to avoid overheating the chocolate.

For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of sea salt directly onto each layer of chocolate before adding the peanut butter. This will enhance the overall flavor profile by balancing the sweetness and creating a more complex taste. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top of the final layer of chocolate before it sets.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients for Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

1 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan-friendly)
1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Make sure to have everything ready before you start melting the chocolate!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your vegan peanut butter cups:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a layer of melted chocolate into each liner, followed by a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture, then top with more chocolate to cover the peanut butter.

Set the Cups

Refrigerate the peanut butter cups for about 20 minutes, or until they are completely set. Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!

If you want to get creative, feel free to add chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel on top!

Pro Tips

For best results, use good-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. This will enhance the flavor and ensure a rich, smooth finish.

Storage Tips for Your Treats

These vegan peanut butter cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This not only keeps them fresh but also maintains their firmness. If you prefer a softer treat, you can leave them at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply arrange the cups on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They'll last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with flavors! You might add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of maple syrup into the peanut butter mixture for a unique twist. If you enjoy textures, consider folding in chopped nuts or crispy rice cereal into the peanut butter for added crunch.

For a visual pop, try layering more than one type of chocolate—such as white and dark vegan chocolate. Pour a layer of one chocolate, then the peanut butter, and finally top with the second chocolate for a striking appearance and more complex flavors in each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes! Almond butter works beautifully in this recipe and will give a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store these peanut butter cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze these peanut butter cups?

Absolutely! They freeze well, just make sure to separate each cup with parchment paper.

→ What can I do if the chocolate is too thick?

If the melted chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil to thin it out.