Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup cashew butter; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Mini cupcake liners

Highlighted under: Fusion Collection

I absolutely love creating sweet treats in my kitchen, and these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Cashew Butter have become a favorite. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy cashew butter creates a unique flavor profile that is simply irresistible. It only takes about 20 minutes to whip these up, and they make for a perfect dessert or snack. Trust me, once you try these delights, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions!

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:41:34.703Z

Making these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups was a spontaneous decision one afternoon when I craved something sweet. I had cashew butter on hand and thought it would be a delightful twist. The trick to getting that smooth melting chocolate coat is to temper the chocolate properly, which really elevates the taste.

I also discovered that using mini cupcake liners makes portioning easy and avoids the mess of molds. This way, each cup comes out perfectly shaped and ready to pop into my mouth. Trust me, you'll want to make these regularly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique twist with cashew butter instead of regular peanut butter
Smooth chocolate that melts delightfully in your mouth
Quick and simple to make, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the cashew butter, which lends a unique creaminess and mild flavor compared to classic peanut butter. Cashew butter has a naturally sweet profile, complementing the richness of dark chocolate without overwhelming it. When selecting cashew butter, look for one that has minimal added ingredients to keep it pure and delicious. The quality of the chocolate also plays a critical role; opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 60% cocoa for optimal melting and flavor depth.

Incorporating sweeteners like honey or maple syrup not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the overall texture of the filling. Honey gives a floral note, while maple syrup has a distinct caramel-like flavor. If you're looking for a sugar-free alternative, consider using a liquid stevia or erythritol sweetener, adjusting the amount to taste. It's essential to mix until completely smooth to ensure a cohesive filling that won't ooze out when the cups are bitten into.

Tips for Perfecting Your Peanut Butter Cups

When melting the chocolate, I recommend using a double boiler rather than the microwave to avoid scorching. This method gives you more control; heat the water to a gentle simmer and keep the chocolate in a heatproof bowl above it. Stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and smooth. If you notice the chocolate thickening or seizing, a small splash of coconut oil can get it back to the desired consistency without altering the flavor significantly.

Be patient when layering the ingredients in the mini cupcake liners. Allow the first layer of chocolate to set slightly before adding the cashew butter. This prevents the layers from mixing and maintains distinct textures. After topping with the final layer of chocolate, gently tap the muffin tin on the counter. This technique helps settle the chocolate evenly and reduces the chance of air bubbles forming, resulting in a more even finish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cups

1 cup cashew butter
1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mini cupcake liners

Now that you have everything, let's move on to the next step!

Instructions

Follow these instructions carefully to make your delicious treats:

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Take care not to get any water in the chocolate, as moisture can cause it to seize.

Prepare the Cups

Place mini cupcake liners in a muffin tin. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, just enough to cover the bottom.

Mix the Filling

In a separate bowl, combine cashew butter, honey or maple syrup, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Fill the Cups

Once the chocolate layer has set slightly, add about 1 tablespoon of the cashew butter mixture on top of the chocolate in each liner.

Top with More Chocolate

Cover the cashew butter with more melted chocolate until fully coated. Tap the muffin tin gently to settle the chocolate.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for about 10-15 minutes until the chocolate has hardened. Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!

Now, dig in and enjoy your homemade peanut butter cups!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flair, try adding crushed nuts or sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. This adds texture and an additional flavor layer that makes these cups even more delicious.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cashew butter cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making them a handy treat for busy days or spontaneous cravings. If you wish to prepare ahead of time, you can make multiple batches and freeze them. Simply layer parchment paper between the cups in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before indulging.

For those who enjoy meal prepping, consider making a batch of the cashew butter filling and storing it in the fridge for quick use. It stays fresh for about a week and can be enjoyed on toast, added to smoothies, or simply eaten by the spoonful. This not only saves you time but also allows for versatility in how you enjoy this nutty delight.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While these cashew butter cups are delicious on their own, consider elevating them with a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed nuts as a decadent finishing touch. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before the chocolate sets can enhance the sweet and salty contrast that makes these cups truly irresistible. Additionally, serving them alongside fresh fruit makes for an appealing presentation and adds a refreshing element to your dessert spread.

If you're looking to experiment, try incorporating spices into the cashew butter mixture. A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can add a delightful twist to the flavor. Alternatively, mix in some shredded coconut or a handful of mini chocolate chips into the filling for added texture. The versatility of this recipe means it can be tailored to your taste, so feel free to get creative!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular peanut butter instead of cashew butter?

Yes, you can substitute cashew butter with regular peanut butter if you prefer.

→ How long do these peanut butter cups last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan chocolate chips and maple syrup for a vegan version.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use agave syrup or maple syrup as a substitute for honey.