Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Honey

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Honey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Honey! The rich combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate, accented with a hint of honey, creates a delightful treat that never fails to satisfy my sweet tooth. Making them from scratch is surprisingly simple and offers a wholesome alternative to store-bought versions, which are often loaded with unnecessary additives. I love that I can control the sweetness and use high-quality ingredients. Whether for an afternoon snack or a special dessert, these cups are a hit with everyone.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:16:16.433Z

When I first attempted to make these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups, I was amazed at how simple they were! The key to achieving that perfect texture lies in not overmixing the peanut butter, allowing for a delightful creamy center that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate shell. I also experimented with using honey for sweetness instead of powdered sugar, and it added an incredible depth of flavor.

After several tries, I discovered that chilling the cups for just the right amount of time is crucial. It helps the chocolate set evenly without losing that satisfying snap when you bite into them. Each bite is a beautiful balance of sweet and salty, making them irresistible!

        Why You'll Love These Cups
        Deliciously creamy peanut butter blended with the natural sweetness of honey
Irresistibly smooth chocolate coating that adds a luxurious finish
Perfectly portioned for satisfying your cravings without overindulging

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality peanut butter is crucial for these cups. Opt for a natural, creamy variety without added sugars or preservatives. This ensures you achieve that rich, nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly. The salt is also an important addition; it enhances the taste of the peanut butter and balances the sweetness from the honey.

When selecting chocolate for coating, dark chocolate chips are recommended for a deep, rich flavor. Look for chips that contain at least 70% cocoa to get that desirable bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the peanut butter filling. Alternatively, you can use semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a milder flavor.

Technique Tips for Perfect Cups

When melting the chocolate, be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between. This method prevents the chocolate from seizing or burning, which can happen if you overheat it. The chocolate should be glossy and smoothly incorporated with the coconut oil before you proceed to the next step.

As you assemble the cups, it's important to pour just enough melted chocolate to coat the bottom of each paper liner, but not so much that it overflows. A spoonful of peanut butter filling placed in the center should still be slightly visible when you cover it with additional chocolate. This layering technique ensures a delightful surprise of creamy filling in every bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Homemade Peanut Butter Cups:

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup honey
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Coating

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Make sure to have all your ingredients at room temperature for easy mixing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious treats:

Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until fully melted.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Pour a spoonful of melted chocolate into each liner, ensuring it coats the bottom. Add a dollop of the peanut butter mixture on top, then cover with more melted chocolate.

Chill and Set

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set.

Enjoy your Homemade Peanut Butter Cups! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For a different flavor, try using almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter. You can also sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate before chilling for an extra savory touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These homemade peanut butter cups can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To maintain their freshness, keep them in an airtight container. If you prefer a firmer texture, they can also be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to allow them to cool at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying, as this will enhance the flavor.

If you're making a large batch for an event or gift, consider preparing the peanut butter filling and chocolate coating separately. You can refrigerate the filling and keep the chocolate melted in a warm water bath to make assembly easier. This way, you can work efficiently and ensure each cup is perfect.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different nut butters if you want to switch things up. Almond butter or cashew butter can be delicious alternatives to peanut butter, providing unique flavors. Just remember that some nut butters may be thicker, so adjust the honey or salt to maintain the right consistency.

For an added crunch or flavor twist, try mixing in crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt atop the melted chocolate before chilling. You can also personalize them by adding a hint of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture or using flavored chocolate like dark chocolate mint for a seasonal treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will be sweeter.

→ How long can these peanut butter cups be stored?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Absolutely! Just make sure to stir it well before measuring, as it often separates.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as alternatives to honey for a vegan option.