Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

If you love the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter, you’re going to be obsessed with these vegan peanut butter cups. They’re rich, creamy, perfectly sweet, and incredibly easy to make—no baking required. Plus, they’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just looking for a healthier dessert option, this recipe delivers all the indulgence without any compromise.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Peanut Butter Cup Recipe

These homemade peanut butter cups check all the boxes:

  • ✅ Dairy-free & vegan
  • ✅ Refined sugar optional
  • ✅ No baking required
  • ✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
  • ✅ Better than store-bought

Unlike traditional versions, these are made with clean ingredients while still tasting just as decadent—if not better.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make these delicious vegan treats:

For the Chocolate Layer:

  • 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth and drippy works best)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional, but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil. Stir until smooth and glossy.

2. Create the Base Layer

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Add about 1 – 1 1/2 teaspoon of melted chocolate into each cup and spread it evenly.

3. Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.

4. Add the Filling

Spoon about 1–2 teaspoons of the peanut butter mixture onto each chocolate base. Gently flatten.

5. Top with Chocolate

Cover the peanut butter layer with another spoonful of melted chocolate, ensuring it fully seals the filling.

6. Chill Until Set

Place the cups back in the freezer for 15–20 minutes or until completely firm.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

  • Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
  • If your peanut butter is thick, warm it slightly for easier mixing.
  • Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.
  • Store in the fridge or freezer to keep them firm.

Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some tasty variations:

  • Almond Butter Cups – Swap peanut butter for almond butter.
  • Crunchy Version – Use crunchy peanut butter or add crushed nuts.
  • Protein Boost – Mix in a scoop of vegan protein powder.
  • Dark Chocolate Lovers – Use 70–85% dark chocolate for a richer taste.

How to Store

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
  • Freezer: Keep for up to 2 months (best for long-term storage)

Let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before eating for the perfect texture.


Final Thoughts

These vegan peanut butter cups are proof that you don’t need dairy or refined ingredients to enjoy a truly satisfying dessert. They’re simple, customizable, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries them.

Make a batch today—you might never go back to store-bought again.

Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

Servings 14 cups
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips vegan
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • Flaky salt for sprinkling on top
  • 12-14 mini muffin liners

Instructions

  • Arrange your mini muffin liners on a plate to get started.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and fully blended.
  • In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each round, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
  • Spoon about 1½ teaspoons of melted chocolate into the bottom of each muffin liner. Then, add 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture to the center. Top with another teaspoon of melted chocolate, adding a bit more if needed to fully cover the filling.
  • Place the cups in the freezer until the chocolate is firm. Once set, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and store in the fridge for up to one week.

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