These Protein Peanut Butter Cups are tasty treats packed with goodness! They mix creamy peanut butter and chocolate with a protein boost, making them perfect for a snack or dessert.
What’s not to love? They’re sweet, satisfying, and easy to make. I whip these up whenever the sweet tooth strikes, and I always feel good about enjoying them! 🍫🥜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: I recommend using natural creamy peanut butter with no added sugar. It gives a rich flavor. If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seed butter or almond butter instead.
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder adds flavor, but unflavored also works, especially if you want the peanut flavor to stand out. Plant-based protein powders are a great alternative for vegans.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both are natural sweeteners; adjust to your taste. If you want a low-carb option, monk fruit sweetener or stevia can be good substitutes.
Dark Chocolate: I use at least 70% cacao for deeper flavor. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan dark chocolate. You can even use white chocolate if that’s your preference!
How Do I Ensure My Chocolate Fills Perfectly?
Melting chocolate can be tricky, but it’s essential for a smooth layer! Here are a few tips:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and melt in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring in between until smooth.
- For a double boiler, place chocolate in a bowl over simmering water. This method prevents burning.
- Add a bit of coconut oil when melting the chocolate to make it smoother and easier to work with.
After pouring it into molds, gently tap the tray on the counter to release any air bubbles. This will help get an even layer of chocolate!
Protein Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter (no sugar added)
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 2-3 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao)
- Flaky sea salt for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll also need an additional 40 minutes to chill in the freezer for the cups to set properly. In total, you’ll have delicious protein peanut butter cups ready in about 55 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:
Start by mixing together the peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup (or honey), and optional vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and everything is well combined. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a bit of melted coconut oil to thin it out.
2. Get Your Muffin Tin Ready:
Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or use silicone molds. This will help you easily pop the cups out once they’ve set!
3. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt half of the chocolate (1/2 cup) along with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. You can do this in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler until the chocolate is nice and smooth.
4. Create the Chocolate Base:
Using a spoon, add about 1 teaspoon of the melted chocolate to each muffin liner. Spread it gently so it covers the bottom. This will be the base for your peanut butter filling.
5. Chill for About 10 Minutes:
Place the muffin tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes or until the chocolate base hardens.
6. Add the Peanut Butter Layer:
After the chocolate has set, take the tray out and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter protein mixture into each cup. Gently press down on it to flatten the top. This will create a nice layer above the chocolate base.
7. Cover with More Chocolate:
Now, melt the remaining chocolate with the leftover coconut oil the same way you did before. Spoon this chocolate over the peanut butter layer, making sure it’s completely covered.
8. Sprinkle Some Sea Salt:
For a delicious finish, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of each cup. This adds a fantastic flavor contrast!
9. Freeze Until Firm:
Put the muffin tin back in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, or until the cups are firm and set.
10. Store and Enjoy:
Once they’re set, carefully remove the cups from the liners. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. Enjoy these tasty and healthy treats whenever you’re in the mood for a snack!
Now, enjoy your delicious, chocolaty Protein Peanut Butter Cups as a healthy and satisfying treat! 🥜🍫
Can I Use a Different Nut Butter?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or just want to try something different, sunflower seed butter or almond butter can be great alternatives that work well in this recipe.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make these peanut butter cups vegan, simply use maple syrup as your sweetener, check that your protein powder is plant-based, and use dairy-free dark chocolate chips. All these adjustments will keep your treat completely vegan!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover protein peanut butter cups in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for a couple of months. Just let them thaw for a bit before enjoying if frozen!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Yes! You can adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your taste. If you prefer a less sweet cup, start with 2 tablespoons and taste the mixture. You can always add a little more if desired!