Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup cashew butter; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Recipes

I absolutely love making these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter at home. It's one of those indulgent treats that feels decadent but is surprisingly easy to whip up. The combination of rich chocolate and smooth cashew butter evokes pure happiness with every bite. Plus, making them from scratch allows me to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to my taste. These cups are perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth or sharing with friends during a cozy gathering.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:53:34.809Z

Making these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter has been a delightful journey for me. I experimented with various nut butters, but cashew butter adds a unique creamy texture that complements the chocolate perfectly. The first time I made them, I rushed the refrigeration process, and they didn't hold their shape well. Now, I always ensure to give them enough time to chill properly to maintain that delightful bite!

When I first combined the melted chocolate and cashew butter, I knew I’d struck gold. The nutty flavor of cashew butter offers a lovely twist compared to traditional peanut butter, creating a sophisticated treat that everyone enjoys. As a tip, using high-quality chocolate will elevate the taste significantly, so don’t skimp on that part!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent combination of rich chocolate and smooth cashew butter
Easily customizable with different nut butters
A fun, interactive treat that friends and family will enjoy making together

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter serves a distinct purpose, enhancing both flavor and texture. The cashew butter provides a creamy and slightly sweet base that complements the richness of dark chocolate. It's important to choose a high-quality nut butter that doesn't have added sugars or oils, as this will ensure a more natural taste and better consistency.

Dark chocolate chips are ideal for this recipe because they contain a higher cocoa content, giving a rich depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of the cashew filling. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips, but be mindful of altering the overall sweetness of the cups. Additionally, opt for coconut oil to help the chocolate achieve a smooth coating that's easier to work with.

Texture and Chilling Time

Achieving the perfect texture for these peanut butter cups is crucial. After melting the chocolate, pouring it into the liners should be done carefully to create a nice layer that holds everything together. Watch for it to cool slightly and thicken if you want a thicker shell; however, avoid letting it set completely before assembling.

Chilling is essential for allowing the flavors to meld and the chocolate to firm up. I recommend refrigerating them for at least an hour, but if you can wait longer, such as two or three hours, the texture will become even firmer and more enjoyable. This time allows for the chocolate layer to set perfectly, making it easier to peel off the liners without damaging the cup.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cups:

Ingredients

1 cup cashew butter
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Here's how to create these delightful treats:

Prepare the Chocolate

Melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil, if using, in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Mix the Cashew Filling

In another bowl, mix the cashew butter, powdered sugar, and sea salt until well combined and creamy.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tray with cupcake liners. Pour a spoonful of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner. Add a dollop of the cashew filling on top, then cover with more melted chocolate until the filling is fully covered.

Chill the Cups

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until fully set. Once firm, remove the cups from the liners and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different varieties of chocolate or nut butter to create your perfect combination!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to switch up the nut butter, feel free to experiment with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Just note that sunflower seed butter has a slightly stronger flavor, which can result in a different taste profile. Whatever nut butter you choose, ensure it's smooth and creamy to maintain the consistency of the filling, which is key for the best bite.

For a sweeter cup, you can incorporate flavored extracts such as vanilla or almond extract into the cashew filling. This adds a delightful depth of flavor without altering the structure of the cups. Just a drop or two is enough to enhance the overall taste without overwhelming the nutty richness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing your homemade peanut butter cups is simple. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. Alternatively, if you're making them ahead of time or want longer storage, they freeze beautifully. Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months in the freezer.

When serving these cups, consider pairing them with fresh fruits, like sliced strawberries or bananas, for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and nut butter. They also make excellent additions to dessert platters or can be enjoyed as a midday treat alongside coffee or tea.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Absolutely! Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be great alternatives.

→ How long can I store these cups?

They can last for up to one week in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

→ Is it necessary to use coconut oil?

It's optional, but it can help the chocolate pour smoother and adds a slight coconut flavor.

→ Can these be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months; just ensure they're well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.