Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you! These vegan peanut butter cups are packed with creamy peanut butter, rich dairy-free chocolate, and plenty of homemade goodness. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

For other peanut butter-lovers like us, don’t miss out on these chocolate peanut butter pie, popcorn with sweet peanut butter drizzle, and edible peanut butter cookie dough recipes! (They’re also slightly similar to the vegan-friendly Peanut Butter Patties Girl Scout Cookies!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few more reasons why these healthy peanut butter cups will become your go-to, budget-friendly treat:

• Cost-Friendly. These vegan peanut butter cups deliver big on taste without a big bill.
• Healthier Ingredients. Each one is packed with simple, vegan-friendly ingredients, so you can indulge without the ick of weird additives or preservatives.
• Easy to Make. A few basic kitchen tools and some simple steps are all it takes to whip up these delightful peanut butter cups.
• Perfect for Sharing. Whether you’re lighting up a vegan potluck or sweetening up a family dinner, these peanut butter cups are made to be loved by everyone.
• Great for Meal Prep. Whip up a batch on Sunday, and you’re all set for a week of treat-yourself moments.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Let’s dive into the pantry and see what’s stirring!

• Vegan Chocolate Chips – Makes the rich chocolate shell that makes these peanut butter cups so irresistible. Dark, semi-sweet, or dairy-free milk chocolate all work well, so use your favorite.
• Coconut Oil – Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and makes it easier to coat the peanut butter filling. It also gives the chocolate shell a softer bite straight from the fridge.
• Peanut Butter – Creates the smoothest texture, while natural peanut butter may need an extra stir and can make the filling a little softer. You can also swap it for almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter if needed.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a little extra sweetness. Pure vanilla extract gives the best taste, but imitation vanilla works if that’s what you have.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling and helps thicken the peanut butter mixture so it’s easier to shape or spoon into the cups. If needed, you can use powdered coconut sugar, although it may make the filling a little darker.
• Sea Salt – Makes the chocolate and peanut butter flavors pop without making the cups taste salty. If you only have table salt, use a little less since it’s more concentrated.

How To Make

Let’s roll up our sleeves and turn these simple ingredients into vegan peanut butter cups snack magic!

Step 1: Prepare Molds – Start by lining a muffin tray with those cute little silicone cupcake liners. They’re not just for show; they make sure your peanut butter cups pop out effortlessly once they’re done.

Step 2: Make Chocolate Base Layer – Add coconut oil to vegan chocolate chips.

Next, Step 3: Mix Together – Melt them together until smooth and dreamy.

Follow up with Step 4: Add Chocolate Base – Spoon half of this chocolate mixture into the liners, filling them just a bit. This is the base of your cups, so make it a good one! Pop the tray into the freezer for a few minutes to let the chocolate set.

Step 5: Mix Peanut Butter Filling – While the base chills, mix up your peanut butter, a touch of coconut oil, a splash of vanilla, and powdered sugar.

Step 6: Layer – Take your tray out of the freezer and spoon the peanut butter mixture over the set chocolate. Flatten it a bit to make room for more chocolate.

Then, Step 7: Create Top Chocolate Layer – Reheat your remaining chocolate if it’s gotten too shy and thick, then pour it over the peanut butter layer.

Step 8: Add Toppings – Now’s the time to sprinkle a little personality on top—sea salt, sprinkles, chopped peanuts and more!

Step 9: Refrigerate and Enjoy – Pop the tray back into the fridge until everything’s nicely set. Once they’re ready, pop them out of the liners and enjoy your creation. You’ve just crafted pure joy!

Expert Tips

• Choose a good-quality dairy-free chocolate chips for the best flavor and a smooth finish.
• Refined coconut oil is best if you don’t want a coconut flavor, but vegan butter can work in a pinch.
• Try to use a flaky sea salt sprinkled on top and add before the chocolate sets.

Topping Ideas

Here are some extra delicious ways to top your vegan peanut butter cups:

• Crushed Peanuts – For that classic crunch, great either sprinkled inside or on top.
• Coconut Flakes – Toast them lightly and add them as a decorative topping.
• Almond Slivers – Elegant and crunchy, perfect for mixing into the middle or garnishing the surface.
• Chopped Dates – Mix into the filling for extra sweetness and a chewy texture.
• Freeze-Dried Raspberries – Crush and scatter inside for a burst of tartness or dust on top for a vibrant pop of color.
• Cinnamon Sugar – A sweet and spicy addition, perfect for mixing into the peanut butter or dusting on top.
• Pumpkin Seeds – Mix in roasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture or use as a colorful topping.
• Sprinkles – To add a rainbow of color, add your favorite vegan sprinkles.

FAQs