If you’re craving a sweet, decadent treat that closely mimics the classic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups but with a richer and fresher flavor, then this Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups recipe is perfect for you! The best part? These homemade peanut butter cups are shockingly easy to make, and they taste even better than the store-bought version. With a few simple ingredients, you can make these cups in no time.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and simple to follow. Not only will you end up with the most delicious peanut butter cups, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in them. Let’s dive right into it!
What Are Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups?
Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are a homemade version of the beloved candy that combines rich chocolate and a smooth, creamy peanut butter filling. These cups are reminiscent of the famous Reese’s, but with a fresher taste and the ability to adjust the ingredients to your preference. The chocolate coating is perfectly smooth, and the peanut butter filling is creamy with just the right amount of sweetness.
These homemade cups are made with simple, accessible ingredients like milk chocolate, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. They are incredibly easy to make and require minimal effort. Once you try these, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the store version!
Origin of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have been a favorite candy for decades, first created by Harry Burnett Reese in 1928. Reese, a former dairy farmer, invented the peanut butter cup while working at the Hershey Chocolate Company. Initially, the treat was sold in a small-scale operation but quickly gained popularity due to its delicious combination of milk chocolate and peanut butter. Over the years, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have evolved into a staple snack that people of all ages love.
Today, we’re putting a twist on the original and making a homemade version that is just as indulgent but with a fresher, more personalized touch!
Ingredients (Makes 12 Standard-Size Cups)
Chocolate Layer
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips (you can use half milk and half semi-sweet chocolate for a deeper flavor)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, helps with a smoother melt)
Peanut Butter Filling
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp graham cracker crumbs (this is key for achieving the classic Reese’s texture!)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions: Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
1. Prepare Your Molds
Start by lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners (paper or silicone). If you want mini cups, use mini liners. These will be your molds, so make sure to have enough for all 12 cups.
2. Make the Chocolate Coating
Next, melt the chocolate and optional coconut oil. You can do this using a double boiler or microwave in 20-30 second bursts. Stir frequently to ensure the chocolate doesn’t burn. Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, spoon about 1 tablespoon of it into each muffin cup. Tilt or rotate the muffin tin to spread the chocolate across the bottom and slightly up the sides of each liner.
Once done, place the tin in the freezer for about 5 minutes to let the chocolate firm up.
3. Make the Peanut Butter Filling
While the chocolate is setting, make the peanut butter filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture becomes thick and doughy. It should be firm enough to roll into small discs.
Roll out 12 small discs, each one fitting comfortably inside the muffin cups.
4. Assemble the Cups
Once the chocolate has set, it’s time to assemble your peanut butter cups. Place one peanut butter disc onto each chilled chocolate base, pressing it gently into the chocolate so it sticks.
Then, spoon more melted chocolate over the peanut butter disc, fully covering it. Make sure the peanut butter is completely hidden by the chocolate.
5. Set the Cups
To ensure the cups set properly, lightly tap the muffin tin on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Place the tin in the fridge and chill the cups for about 20 minutes, or until they are fully set and firm to the touch.
Variations of Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
While this recipe is already perfect, there are plenty of fun variations to try:
1. Dark Chocolate Version
If you’re a fan of darker chocolate, swap out the milk chocolate for dark chocolate, or use a mix of both. Dark chocolate will give the peanut butter cups a richer, slightly bitter taste that complements the sweetness of the peanut butter filling.
2. Add a Crunch
For some texture, you can add crushed nuts like peanuts or almonds to the peanut butter mixture. This will give the cups a satisfying crunch and an added layer of flavor.
3. Flavored Peanut Butter
Feel free to experiment with different peanut butter flavors! Try honey roasted peanut butter for a sweeter twist, or chocolate peanut butter for an even richer experience.
4. Make Them Vegan
If you’re looking to make these peanut butter cups vegan, use dairy-free chocolate chips and make sure your peanut butter and graham crackers are also free of animal products.
FAQs About Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use smooth peanut butter, but it’s best to use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture in the filling.
Can I make peanut butter cups recipe in advance?
Absolutely! These homemade peanut butter cups store well in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can even freeze them for longer storage.
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes! You can swap out milk chocolate for semi-sweet, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate if you prefer. The choice is yours!
How can I make these without coconut oil?
If you don’t want to use coconut oil, you can simply melt the chocolate without it. Coconut oil helps the chocolate become smoother, but it’s not necessary for the recipe.
Conclusion: Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
These Copycat Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are the perfect homemade treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. They combine rich milk chocolate with a creamy, slightly salty peanut butter filling for a snack that’s irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, as a gift, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
By following these easy steps and tips, you’ll have a batch of homemade Reese’s-style peanut butter cups that are fresher, richer, and even more delicious than the store-bought version. So, grab your ingredients and get started—you won’t regret it!
