These Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cups are a sweet treat you won’t resist! They’re filled with creamy peanut butter and topped with crunchy goodness, all wrapped in chocolate.
They’re so easy to make, I feel like a candy wizard in my kitchen! I often enjoy them while watching movies—they’re super fun to share (or not)! 🍫🥜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dark Chocolate Chips: I prefer dark chocolate for its rich flavor, but you can easily swap in semi-sweet or milk chocolate. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan chocolate options.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Use your favorite brand! If you want a healthier twist, try natural peanut butter or almond butter. Just keep in mind that they can vary in creaminess.
Powdered Sugar: This adds sweetness without the graininess. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but it might change the texture slightly.
Crisp Rice Cereal: I love the crunch from classic crisp rice cereal. You can use granola or crushed cornflakes if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Melt Chocolate Without Burning It?
Melted chocolate is key to making these cups delicious. If you’re not cautious, chocolate can easily burn. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat chocolate in 30-second bursts. Stir well after each burst.
- If you prefer stovetop, use a double boiler. This means placing a bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring gently until melted.
- Keep an eye on it! Chocolate can go from melted to burnt in seconds. If there are still small chunks, just stir—residual heat will finish the job.
With these tips, you’ll have perfect cups that bring joy to your taste buds!
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or semi-sweet)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup crisp rice cereal or crushed crispy rice (for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (for topping)
- Optional: a pinch of salt if peanut butter is unsalted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 40 minutes for chilling in the fridge. You’ll spend a few minutes melting chocolate, mixing the filling, and assembling the cups, then let them chill until they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by lining a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly greasing it with cooking spray. This step is important to ensure your cups come out easily once they’re set.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips. Do this in 30-second intervals, stirring well each time until the chocolate is completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat it!
3. Create the Chocolate Base:
Spoon about a tablespoon of the melted chocolate into each muffin liner. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the bottom and up the sides if you can. Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes until the chocolate sets.
4. Make the Peanut Butter Mixture:
While the chocolate is setting, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar in a bowl. Mix until smooth. Gently fold in the crisp rice cereal to add that delicious crunch.
5. Fill the Cups:
Once the chocolate base is firm, add about a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture into each cup. Press it down lightly to spread the mixture evenly.
6. Add More Chocolate:
Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over the filled cups or spoon a thin layer over each one. This will help seal the peanut butter inside.
7. Garnish:
Top each cup with a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch.
8. Refrigerate:
Place the muffin tin back in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until the cups are fully set.
9. Enjoy Your Treats:
Once completely hardened, carefully remove the crunch cups from the tin by peeling away the liners. Enjoy these delicious homemade treats that combine rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and delightful crunch!
Feel free to share these delightful cups with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself as a special treat!
Can I Use Smooth Peanut Butter Instead of Crunchy?
Absolutely! You can use smooth peanut butter for a creamier texture. If you want some crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or extra crisp rice cereal to the mixture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store the chocolate peanut butter crunch cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.
Can I Use Other Types of Chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate with semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate if that’s your preference. Just keep in mind that different chocolates will change the flavor profile slightly!
What Should I Do if My Chocolate Hardened Too Quickly?
If your chocolate hardens before you can use it, simply return it to low heat (in the microwave or on the stove) and melt it again gently. Stir well until it’s smooth, and then proceed with your recipe. Just be cautious not to overheat it!
