Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups

Name: Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup milk chocolate chips; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Desserts

I love making Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups because they perfectly combine the rich taste of chocolate with creamy peanut butter. The experience of biting into one is pure bliss, and it always brings back sweet memories of childhood treats. This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring few ingredients and minimal time. Trust me; once you try making these at home, you'll find yourself reaching for them again and again, whether for a party or as a special indulgence.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-07T21:57:28.043Z

When I first tried making these Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups, I was amazed at how simple the process was. I remember melting the chocolate and carefully layering it with the peanut butter filling, which felt almost therapeutic. The key is to let the chocolate cool slightly before adding the filling, as this helps create distinct layers that not only look beautiful but taste incredible.

The first time I served these at a gathering, they quickly disappeared off the table! I learned that garnishing them with a sprinkle of sea salt elevates the flavor, balancing sweetness with a touch of savory. It’s these little details that make a big difference in the overall experience of enjoying them.

        Why You'll Love These Dessert Cups
        Irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate
Customizable with toppings like sea salt or chopped nuts
Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a personal treat

      

Mastering the Chocolate Coating

The chocolate foundation of these dessert cups is critical for a satisfying texture and flavor. When melting the chocolate, it’s essential to do it in short bursts to avoid scorching. I recommend using a microwave-safe bowl, as it helps achieve a smooth consistency. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring with a spatula in between until the chocolate is glossy and fully melted. This will integrate both milk and semi-sweet chocolate into a rich blend, creating a delightful shell that complements the peanut butter filling perfectly.

If you notice that the chocolate isn't melting evenly or is starting to harden, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or coconut oil. This will help it become smooth again. Avoid any water in the bowl, as moisture can cause chocolate to seize up, ruining the texture. Aim for a silky finish, as this contributes not only to aesthetics but also to the mouthfeel once they are assembled.

Creating the Perfect Filling

The peanut butter filling is where the magic happens. Using creamy peanut butter rather than natural varieties guarantees a smoother texture that blends well with the powdered sugar. If you prefer a bit of texture, crunchy peanut butter can be an excellent alternative, offering a delightful contrast against the chocolate shell. Adjust the powdered sugar to taste; adding slightly more will enhance sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the chocolate’s richness.

Be sure to mix the filling until it's completely smooth. I find that using an electric mixer speeds things up significantly. This not only ensures that all ingredients are evenly combined, but it also helps to incorporate air, yielding a lighter filling. A pinch of sea salt elevates the flavors, so don't skip it! It balances the sweetness while emphasizing the nutty notes of the peanut butter.

Storage and Customization Tips

Once you’ve made your Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups, storing them correctly ensures they remain delicious for longer. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. However, for extended freshness, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving; this enhances the flavor and texture, as the chocolate softens slightly.

Feel free to customize these dessert cups with various toppings. For an added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or crushed pretzels on top before the last layer of chocolate sets. For a gourmet touch, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate your dessert to new heights. Mixing different kinds of chocolate for the shell or experimenting with flavored peanut butters can also lead to delightful variations!

Ingredients for Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups

For the Chocolate Cups

1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Directions for Making Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.

Prepare the Cups

Using a spoon, layer about 1 tablespoon of the melted chocolate into each cupcake liner, spreading it evenly. Place the liners in the freezer for about 10 minutes until the chocolate sets.

Mix the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.

Fill the Cups

Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the liners from the freezer. Add about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture to each cup, smoothing it over the chocolate.

Top with Chocolate

Cover the peanut butter layer with the remaining melted chocolate, ensuring each cup is fully sealed. Return to the freezer for an additional 10 minutes.

Serve

Once set, gently remove the dessert cups from the liners and serve. Enjoy your homemade Reese's Peanut Butter Dessert Cups!

Pro Tips

Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate cups are difficult to remove from the liners, this often means they weren't set fully before adding the filling. Ensure they are solidified by checking for a firm texture; they should not feel tacky. If this happens, you can place them back in the freezer for a few minutes to help solidify any remaining chocolate.

In case the filling is too runny, it might be worth chilling it for a short period before adding it to the cups. If you've accidentally made it too thick, a small amount of cream or milk can bring it back to a spreadable consistency. Small adjustments in texture can make a big difference in the overall dessert experience!

Making Ahead of Time

These dessert cups can be a fantastic make-ahead treat for gatherings. You can prepare them a few days in advance and keep them stored in the fridge. They are ideal for parties, as they can be made in larger batches while still maintaining their flavor and texture. Just remember to double-check the sealing of your chocolate tops to make sure they are airtight.

When serving at a gathering, consider presenting them in decorative cupcake liners or even on a tiered dessert stand. They are visually appealing and inviting, sure to impress your guests. Just allow some time for them to reach room temperature for the best tasting experience—about 10-15 minutes should do the trick!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give a richer flavor and pair beautifully with the sweetness of the peanut butter.

→ How long do these dessert cups last?

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

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! These dessert cups are perfect for making ahead of time for events or gatherings.

→ What kind of peanut butter should I use?

I recommend using a creamy peanut butter for the best texture and flavor, but you can also use crunchy for added texture.