No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

 

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:

   In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a sandy texture.

   Press the mixture into the bottom of a muffin tin, small tart pans, or silicone molds. Use a spoon or your fingers to press the mixture down firmly. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

   Once the base has set, spoon a dollop of the peanut butter mixture into each cup, spreading it evenly over the base.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:

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

   Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer in each cup, spreading it to cover the peanut butter completely.

4. Set the Peanut Butter Cups:

   Place the muffin tin or molds in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set and firm.

5. Serve:

   Once set, carefully remove the peanut butter cups from the molds. If using a muffin tin, you may need to run a knife around the edges to loosen them.

   Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes:

• Variations: You can add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Customizing the filling: Feel free to mix in crushed pretzels, nuts, or even mini chocolate chips into the peanut butter filling for extra texture.

These no-bake chocolate peanut butter cups are rich, indulgent, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy!