Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

Name: Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup natural peanut butter; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup dark vegan chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Cozy Dessert Classics

I absolutely adore making these Vegan Peanut Butter Cups at home! The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich dark chocolate creates a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet tooth without compromising my dietary choices. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. These are not just a snack; they are a celebration of flavor and creativity that I love to share with family and friends.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:58:19.454Z

When I first attempted to create a vegan version of my favorite peanut butter cups, I was worried about compromising on taste. But to my delight, the result was not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make! Experimenting with different dark chocolate brands made a significant difference in flavor, and I discovered that the creaminess of the peanut butter truly shines when paired with a dash of sea salt.

One tip that I found crucial is to let the chocolate coating set properly before indulging. It prevents any mess and ensures that each cup maintains its form. These vegan peanut butter cups have quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing them during gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich peanut butter filling with a perfect chocolate shell
No dairy or refined sugars, making it a guilt-free treat
Customizable with different nut butters or add-ins

Perfecting Your Peanut Butter Filling

Achieving the ideal peanut butter filling is essential for the flavor balance of these cups. Use natural peanut butter, as it has no added oils or sugars that could interfere with the texture. The incorporation of maple syrup adds natural sweetness and keeps the filling creamy, preventing it from becoming too stiff when chilled. Mix until completely smooth; a lumpy texture can lead to uneven bites.

If you want to customize your filling, consider incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cocoa powder for added complexity. For those who enjoy a little crunch, crushed nuts or a sprinkle of chia seeds can enhance both texture and taste. Remember, the flavor should be rich but not overpowering, allowing the chocolate to shine equally.

Mastering the Chocolate Layer

Melting the dark chocolate chips requires patience for the best texture. Use 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is glossy. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize; if this happens, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to restore smoothness. The melted chocolate should be warm but not boiling to prevent it from cooking the filling when layered.

To achieve a uniform shell, make sure to pour enough chocolate in each cupcake liner to cover the bottom completely. After adding the peanut butter filling, let it sit briefly before topping it off with more chocolate, allowing the layers to bond. This technique will help prevent the filling from spilling out when you take a bite.

Ingredients

For the Cups

1 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup dark vegan chocolate chips

Mix the peanut filling well to ensure a creamy texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until glossy and smooth.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, followed by a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture. Top with more melted chocolate to seal.

Chill

Refrigerate the cups for at least 15 minutes or until set. Remove from liners and enjoy!

Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try using almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut flakes on top of the chocolate for added texture.

Storing and Freezing

These Vegan Peanut Butter Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cups in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They'll maintain their flavor and texture for about three months, making them an excellent make-ahead treat.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen treats, simply remove the desired number of cups and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This softening time will enhance the flavor and make them easier to bite into.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with different nut butters! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can add unique flavors to the filling. Just ensure that you're using a smooth variety that you can mix easily with the syrup and avoid those with added sugars to maintain the recipe's integrity.

For an extra touch, drizzle melted coconut oil or dark chocolate over the top of the finished cups for a decorative touch. You could also sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before they set for an added flavor contrast that elevates the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond, cashew, or even sunflower seed butter work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ How do I store the peanut butter cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these without maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or any other sweetener of your choice.

→ Is the chocolate really necessary?

The chocolate provides a delicious shell that balances the creamy peanut butter filling, but you could also experiment with coatings like coconut or crushed nuts.