Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Coconut

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Coconut
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Coconut! They’re creamy, rich, and offer a delightful crunch from the coconut flakes. I started experimenting with this recipe after craving something sweet but wanted to avoid store-bought options loaded with preservatives. The combination of smooth peanut butter and chocolate is truly irresistible, especially when you add toasted coconut for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, once you try making these cups at home, you won’t want to go back to the store-bought versions!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:49:07.661Z

When I first made these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups, I was amazed at how simple the process was and how much better they tasted than the store-bought versions. My secret is using high-quality chocolate and freshly ground peanut butter for maximum flavor. The addition of coconut pushed this treat over the top, transforming them into a gourmet snack!

I also love that I can customize the sweetness to my liking by controlling the sugar. The texture of the coconut contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the peanut butter filling. I keep a batch in the freezer for those late-night cravings, and they are always a hit among friends and family!

        Why You'll Love These Cups
        Rich chocolate flavor enhanced with the crunch of toasted coconut
Creamy peanut butter filling that satisfies your sweet tooth
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Coconut plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The peanut butter serves as the creamy base, lending richness and a natural sweetness that complements the chocolate. Opt for a natural peanut butter without added sugars for a more authentic taste. Additionally, the powdered sugar not only sweetens the filling but also helps achieve a smooth consistency, making it easier to spoon into the chocolate shells.

The choice of chocolate is crucial as well; dark chocolate chips provide a deep, robust flavor that balances the sweetness of the peanut butter. Using chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content will elevate the overall taste, giving it a slight bitterness that enhances the richness. Coconut oil is used in the melting process to ensure a smooth, glossy texture—this prevents the chocolate from seizing and makes for an easy pouring experience.

Techniques for Perfect Cups

When melting the chocolate, keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Stopping every 30 seconds to stir allows the heat to distribute evenly and helps you catch any signs of cooling before it hardens. You want the chocolate to be fully melted yet not excessively heated; it should be shiny and pourable. If your chocolate does begin to seize, a small splash of coconut oil can often help smooth it out again, restoring its pourability.

Assembling your cups is where creativity meets technique. Ensure that the first layer of chocolate is not too thick—about a 1/8-inch layer is ideal to hold the filling while still being sturdy. After adding the peanut butter filling, another thin layer of chocolate on top will create a protective seal that keeps the filling in place. It’s essential to tap the muffin tin gently on the counter to eliminate air bubbles before chilling to ensure even distribution.

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For Topping

1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Feel free to adjust the sweetness to suit your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a layer of melted chocolate into each liner, then add a spoonful of peanut butter filling. Top with more melted chocolate to cover completely.

Add Coconut

Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of each cup before the chocolate sets.

Chill Until Firm

Refrigerate the cups for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is hardened.

Once set, enjoy your delicious Homemade Peanut Butter Cups!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of nut butter for a unique twist. Almond or cashew butter could be delicious alternatives!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once set, these Peanut Butter Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you plan to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Just layer the cups between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months and enjoyed directly from the freezer for a cool treat.

If you’re thinking of making these ahead of time for an event, you can prepare the peanut butter filling and chocolate separately a day or two in advance. Just remember to assemble them closer to serving to maintain the best texture. The chill time in the fridge is also flexible; allowing them to set a bit longer ensures that the chocolate is thoroughly firm.

Serving and Variations

These cups are delightful as they are, but you can customize them with different toppings or fillings. Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the flavors further. For a touch of sweetness and whimsy, consider incorporating mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of white chocolate for decoration. Variations could include almond butter instead of peanut butter for a nutty spin or even replacing the coconut with crushed cookies for a different texture.

You can also experiment with the chocolate coating. Milk chocolate can give a sweeter profile, while a blend of dark and milk may appeal to those who prefer a balanced taste. If you are looking for a dairy-free option, ensure that you use dairy-free chocolate chips and nut butter alternatives.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and natural peanut butter.

→ How should I store these?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for longer shelf life.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut?

You can omit coconut entirely or use crushed nuts or seeds for added texture.

→ Can I make a larger batch?

Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients to make more cups.