Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Maple Filling

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Maple Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

I absolutely love making these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Maple Filling because they combine the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of maple syrup. Each bite offers a delightful balance of flavors, making them an indulgent treat that's better than store-bought versions. Whenever I whip up a batch, I can’t resist sneaking a few right away—they're just that irresistible! Plus, I appreciate knowing exactly what’s in them, which adds to their charm. This recipe is perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth or impressing friends at gatherings.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:29:34.414Z

After several attempts perfecting my homemade peanut butter cups, I discovered that using pure maple syrup not only sweetens the filling but also adds a unique depth to the flavor. The first time I experimented with this, I couldn’t believe how much it elevated the taste compared to regular sugar. If you’re a fan of maple, trust me, you’ll want to add it to your peanut butter mixture!

Another tip I found helpful is to slightly chill the peanut butter mixture before filling the chocolate cups. This helps the filling hold its shape better and prevents any messy overflow when you cap them with chocolate. Each step contributes to achieving that perfect bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich peanut flavor enveloped in smooth chocolate
Natural sweetness from maple syrup enhances every bite
Perfect balance of sweet and salty that's always a hit

Perfecting the Chocolate Shell

The chocolate shell is the cornerstone of these peanut butter cups, providing a decadent contrast to the creamy filling. For the best results, use high-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa content. This ensures a rich, bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the maple filling. When melting the chocolate, be sure to stir it regularly to prevent overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize up and become gritty.

Coconut oil not only helps the chocolate melt smoothly but also contributes to a shiny finish once it sets. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with vegetable oil, though the taste may differ slightly. Remember, allowing the melted chocolate to cool slightly before pouring it into the muffin tin will help it set better and create an ideal shell that snaps when bitten into.

Creating the Maple Filling

The maple filling is what truly elevates these peanut butter cups beyond traditional versions. Using pure maple syrup instead of imitation syrup adds a depth of flavor that complements the creamy peanut butter. Additionally, take care to mix the filling until it’s completely smooth—this guarantees a uniform texture without any lumps. If desired, you can swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option, but keep in mind that flavor profiles will change slightly.

I recommend letting the filling rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes after mixing. This slight warming helps it spread more easily into the chocolate base without cracking the shell. For those who enjoy a little crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or sea salt atop the filling before sealing with chocolate for added texture and contrast.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious peanut butter cups:

For the Chocolate Shell

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Maple Filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can move on to making these delicious treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your peanut butter cups:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Cups

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, just enough to cover the base. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.

Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Once the chocolate base has set slightly, add a generous spoonful of the peanut butter mixture into each cup. Cover the filling with more melted chocolate and smooth out the tops.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate the muffin tin for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set. Carefully peel off the paper liners before serving.

Now that your peanut butter cups are ready, enjoy the burst of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or drizzle some white chocolate on top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Homemade Peanut Butter Cups can be made in advance, making them perfect for gifting or snacking throughout the week. Once assembled and set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they'll keep fresh for up to two weeks. If you prefer to freeze them, layer parchment paper between the cups in an airtight container to prevent sticking, and they can be frozen for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen peanut butter cups, simply let them thaw in the fridge for about 30 minutes or at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This method retains their texture and flavor, ensuring a delightful treat that's just as good as when they were first made.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist, try serving these peanut butter cups on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream. Chocolate-dipped strawberries or banana slices complement the rich chocolate flavor nicely. You can also drizzle extra melted chocolate or caramel over the top just before serving to make them even more indulgent.

For special occasions, consider gifting these homemade treats in a decorative box or tin, complete with a personalized label. Not only do they make a heartfelt gift, but they’re also a unique alternative to traditional candy. Plus, your friends will appreciate knowing they’re enjoying a treat made from wholesome ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute with milk chocolate, but it will alter the flavor slightly, making it sweeter.

→ How long do these peanut butter cups last?

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

→ Can I replace peanut butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter work wonderfully as alternatives.

→ Is it necessary to use coconut oil?

Coconut oil helps the chocolate set better and provides a smooth texture, but you can omit it if needed.