Here’s a **Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Recipe** — a luxurious, homemade version of the classic treat that balances creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and just the right amount of sweetness.
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## 🍫 Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
### Why You’ll Love Them
If you’ve ever wished your favorite store-bought peanut butter cups tasted a little richer, smoother, and more indulgent — this recipe is your dream come true. Made with high-quality chocolate and a perfectly balanced peanut butter filling, these treats melt in your mouth and taste like something straight from a chocolatier’s shop.
They’re easy to make, require no baking, and look beautiful enough to gift or serve at any special occasion.
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### Ingredients
#### For the Chocolate Shell
* **2 cups (340g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips** – Choose good-quality chocolate for a glossy, luxurious finish.
* **2 tablespoons coconut oil or cocoa butter** – Makes the chocolate smooth and shiny when set.
#### For the Peanut Butter Filling
* **¾ cup (190g) creamy peanut butter** – Use a natural, no-stir brand for the best texture.
* **¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar** – Sweetens and firms up the filling.
* **2 tablespoons butter, melted** – Adds richness and stability.
* **½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract** – Enhances flavor.
* **Pinch of salt** – Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
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### Instructions
1. **Prepare your molds:**
Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or use silicone candy molds.
2. **Melt the chocolate:**
* In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate and coconut oil.
* Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth.
* Alternatively, melt over a double boiler for a silky texture.
3. **Form the chocolate base:**
* Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into each liner.
* Tilt the pan so the chocolate coats the bottom evenly.
* Chill for 10 minutes until firm.
4. **Make the peanut butter filling:**
* In a small bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth and thick.
* Roll into small balls or scoop teaspoons of filling and flatten slightly.
5. **Assemble:**
* Place a disc of peanut butter filling on top of each chocolate base.
* Spoon more melted chocolate over each one, covering the filling completely.
* Tap the pan gently on the counter to smooth the tops and remove air bubbles.
6. **Chill to set:**
* Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until fully firm.
* Once set, store in the fridge or a cool place.
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### Pro Tips for Gourmet Perfection
* **Use two kinds of chocolate:** Try a layer of dark chocolate on the bottom and milk chocolate on top for contrast.
* **Add texture:** Sprinkle sea salt, crushed peanuts, or cocoa nibs on top before chilling.
* **Go fancy:** Drizzle with white chocolate or edible gold dust for a truly gourmet look.
* **Storage:** Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks (or freeze for 3 months).
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### Flavor Variations
* **Espresso Peanut Butter Cups:** Stir ½ teaspoon espresso powder into the chocolate for a mocha twist.
* **Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cups:** Add a thin layer of caramel on top of the peanut butter filling before sealing with chocolate.
* **Almond or Cashew Butter Cups:** Swap peanut butter for other nut butters for a refined flavor change.
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### Serving Ideas
* Arrange on a dessert platter for parties or holidays.
* Wrap in foil or place in mini paper cups for homemade gift boxes.
* Serve with coffee, milk, or red wine for a decadent pairing.
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Would you like me to include a **healthy version** of these gourmet cups (made with dark chocolate, hon
ey, and natural peanut butter)? It’s perfect if you want something refined but less sugary.
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