Description
Rich, indulgent, and packed with protein, these homemade Protein Peanut Butter Cups are a healthier twist on a classic treat. Made with natural ingredients, they are perfect for a post-workout snack or a guilt-free dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups dark or milk chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 3/4 cup peanut butter (natural or creamy)
- 1/4 cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: Melt the chocolate with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth.
- Create the Base Layer: Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, tilting the tin for even coverage. Freeze for 10 minutes.
- Make the Peanut Butter Filling: In a bowl, mix peanut butter, protein powder, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until a smooth, thick paste forms.
- Assemble the Cups: Remove the tin from the freezer. Add a spoonful of peanut butter mixture onto the hardened chocolate layer and smooth it out.
- Top with More Chocolate: Pour the remaining melted chocolate over each peanut butter layer, ensuring full coverage. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
- Chill and Set: Return to the freezer for 15–20 minutes or until fully set.
- Enjoy: Once set, remove from liners and enjoy.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Dietary Variations: Use dairy-free chocolate and plant-based protein for a vegan option. Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for allergy-friendly alternatives.
- Customization: Add crushed nuts or cacao nibs for extra crunch. Use sugar-free chocolate and monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: 20-30 minutes
- Category: dessert, snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Protein Peanut Butter Cups, High-Protein Dessert, Healthy Peanut Butter Cups, No-Bake Treat, Homemade Candy