Chocolate-Peanut Butter Cups
- Level: Easy
- Yield: 48 chocolate peanut butter cups
- Nutritional Analysis (per serving 1 of 48): Calories 88; Total Fat 5 g; Saturated Fat 2 g; Carbohydrates 10 g; Dietary Fiber 1 g; Sugar 8 g; Protein 1 g; Cholesterol 4 mg; Sodium 5 mg
- Total: 1 hr
- Prep: 30 min
- Inactive: 30 min
For the base
2 ounces (50 grams) soft dark brown sugar
7 ounces (200 grams) icing sugar
2 ounces (50 grams) butter, softened
7 ounces (200 grams) smooth peanut butter
For the topping:
7 ounces (200 grams) milk chocolate
3 1/2 ounces (100 grams) dark chocolate
Gold buttons and edible gold stars to decorate, or other decorations of your choice
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- Combine all the base ingredients in a food processor and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
- Arrange 48 gold petit four cases inside miniature tart tins or mini-muffin pans (each cup roughly 1 3/4 inches across). Place 1 teaspoon of the base mixture into each case and press firmly to form a compact bottom layer.
- Place the milk and dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of gently simmering water (ensure the water does not touch the bowl). Stir occasionally until melted and smooth.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the melted chocolate over each pressed base to cover the top.
- Decorate each cup with a gold button or star while the chocolate is still wet, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
- Serve the chocolate-peanut butter cups in their cases on a plate.
This bite-sized treat pairs creamy peanut butter with a silky chocolate topping for an easy, no-bake confection. The base combines brown and icing sugar with butter and smooth peanut butter for a sweet, slightly sandy texture that supports the chocolate crown. Melting the chocolates gently prevents seizing and gives a glossy finish, while chilled storage helps the cups keep their shape.
The recipe is versatile: you can try natural peanut butter for a nuttier texture (note it may soften faster at room temperature), swap decorations to suit the occasion, or use higher-quality chocolate for deeper flavor. These cups store well in the refrigerator, making them convenient for preparing ahead of time.
To serve, present chilled alongside coffee or as part of a dessert platter; the contrast between the cool chocolate and the crumbly peanut base is especially satisfying. The process is simplemix, press, melt, top, chilland yields 48 elegant, crowd-pleasing treats.
