These Protein Peanut Butter Cups are a tasty treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while packing a protein punch! Creamy peanut butter wrapped in rich chocolate makes each bite oh-so-good.
Honestly, who can resist chocolate and peanut butter? I love making these for a quick snack after a workout. Just pop one in your mouth, and you’re ready to tackle anything! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Natural Peanut Butter: I recommend using natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils for the best flavor and health benefits. If you have a nut allergy, try sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute.
Protein Powder: You can use either vanilla or unflavored protein powder, depending on your taste preference. If you’re vegan, opt for plant-based protein powders like pea or hemp protein.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This acts as a sweetener. For a sugar-free version, you can use stevia or erythritol. Just adjust the amount to taste for sweetness.
Dark Chocolate: Look for high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich flavor. If you want a lower sugar option, try sugar-free chocolate chips.
How Do You Melt Chocolate Smoothly?
Melted chocolate is a key element for coating your cups, and getting it just right is important! Here’s how you can do it without burning it:
- Use a microwave or double boiler. If using the microwave, heat it in 20-30 second bursts, stirring in between until smooth and shiny.
- For a double boiler, simply place a glass bowl over simmering water and stir until melted.
- Add coconut oil if you want a smoother texture—this makes the chocolate easier to work with and gives a nice sheen.
- Be patient and don’t rush; melting slowly preserves the flavor and consistency!
How to Make Protein Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, no added sugar)
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate, 70% cocoa or higher)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and an additional 30-40 minutes for chilling in the freezer until set. Altogether, you’ll have delicious protein peanut butter cups ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by lining a muffin tin with silicone or paper cupcake liners. This will help you easily remove the peanut butter cups once they’re set.
2. Make the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, protein powder, honey (or maple syrup), and salt. Mix thoroughly until you create a smooth, slightly thick dough. This will be your yummy filling!
3. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together. If using the microwave, heat in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
4. Add the First Layer of Chocolate:
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the melted chocolate into each cupcake liner. Use the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate evenly across the bottom of each liner.
5. Freeze to Harden:
Put the muffin tin in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes, just enough time for the chocolate layer to set firmly.
6. Shape the Peanut Butter Filling:
Take about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture and shape it into a flat disk. Place it carefully on top of the hardened chocolate layer in each cup.
7. Cover with Chocolate:
Use another tablespoon of melted chocolate to cover the peanut butter disk completely, ensuring that it is fully hidden beneath the chocolate.
8. Add Flaky Sea Salt:
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cup for that added taste sensation.
9. Final Chill:
Return the muffin tin to the freezer and chill for another 20-30 minutes, or until the cups have fully set.
10. Enjoy Your Treats:
Once everything is hardened, carefully remove the peanut butter cups from the liners. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Now you’re ready to snack on your protein-packed treats anytime you want!
Enjoy your protein-packed, delicious peanut butter cups!
Can I Use a Different Nut Butter?
Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter in place of the peanut butter. Just make sure it’s natural and without added sugars or oils for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store your protein peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Make These Vegan?
Yes! To make the recipe vegan, use a plant-based protein powder and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Also, ensure your dark chocolate is dairy-free.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil on hand, you can omit it or use a neutral flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil, though this might slightly alter the texture. Alternatively, you can use a bit of cocoa butter for a similar effect.