Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cups

There's something magical about the combination of chocolate, peanut butter, caramel, and sea salt—a quartet of flavors that transforms a simple homemade treat into an unforgettable indulgence. These Salted Caramel Homemade Peanut Butter Cups elevate the classic candy to new heights with a gooey, golden caramel center that oozes with every bite. The flaky sea salt scattered on top creates the perfect sweet-salty balance, making these decadent cups impossible to resist. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe delivers professional-quality results right from your own kitchen.

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The secret to achieving that professional candy-shop texture lies in the layering technique and patience during chilling. Each component—the smooth chocolate shell, creamy peanut butter filling, and luscious caramel—comes together in perfect harmony. The combination of textures, from the snap of the chocolate coating to the soft caramel and creamy peanut butter, creates a multi-dimensional eating experience. With just one hour from start to finish, including chilling time, you'll have a batch of twelve stunning peanut butter cups that rival any store-bought version.

Ingredients

• Chocolate Layer: 300 g (10 oz) semisweet or milk chocolate, chopped or chips, and 2 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter
• Peanut Butter Filling: 120 g (½ cup) creamy peanut butter, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, 1 tbsp unsalted butter (softened), and ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Salted Caramel: 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 60 ml (¼ cup) heavy cream, and ¼ tsp fine sea salt
• Topping: Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Measure spices, liquids, and baking ingredients accurately for consistent results in cooking and baking.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the muffin tin

Line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners.

Step 2: Melt the chocolate

Melt chocolate and coconut oil (or butter) together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, or microwave in 30-second bursts until smooth.

Step 3: Create chocolate bases

Spoon about 1 tablespoon melted chocolate into each liner, tilting to coat the bottom. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.

Step 4: Make the peanut butter filling

In a bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Divide into 12 portions and flatten into small discs.

Step 5: Prepare the salted caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until golden, swirling occasionally (do not stir). Add butter, stirring until melted. Slowly add cream (it will bubble), whisk until smooth. Stir in fine sea salt. Let cool for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the layers

Place a peanut butter disc onto each chilled chocolate base. Top with about 1 teaspoon cooled caramel.

Step 7: Add final chocolate layer

Cover each cup with remaining melted chocolate, smoothing tops.

Step 8: Add sea salt topping

Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Step 9: Chill until set

Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until set.

Step 10: Store properly

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When making the salted caramel, patience is key—allow the sugar to melt completely without stirring to avoid crystallization. Simply swirl the pan gently to ensure even melting. The caramel must cool for the full 10 minutes before adding to the cups; if it's too hot, it will melt the chocolate base. For the smoothest peanut butter filling, ensure your butter is properly softened to room temperature. When melting chocolate, work in short intervals and stir frequently to prevent burning. If your chocolate becomes too thick while working, gently reheat it. Use a small spoon or offset spatula to smooth the final chocolate layer for a professional finish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to dietary needs and flavor preferences. For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter—the texture and richness remain intact. Add a pinch of cinnamon to the caramel for a warm, spiced twist that's perfect for fall and winter. Dark chocolate lovers can swap the semisweet or milk chocolate for bittersweet varieties (70% cacao or higher) for a more sophisticated flavor profile. For extra indulgence, add a few chopped roasted peanuts to the caramel layer before covering with the final chocolate coating. You can also experiment with different finishing salts—smoked sea salt adds depth, while pink Himalayan salt provides a subtle mineral note.

Serviervorschläge

These salted caramel peanut butter cups pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and occasions. Serve them alongside a rich espresso or freshly brewed coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up, or pair with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that never disappoints. They make stunning additions to dessert platters at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or as homemade gifts when packaged in decorative boxes. For an elegant presentation, arrange them on a serving platter with fresh berries and a dusting of cocoa powder. They're also perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or as a special treat tucked into lunchboxes. Store them chilled until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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Creating these Salted Caramel Homemade Peanut Butter Cups is more than just following a recipe—it's crafting an experience that combines artisan technique with accessible ingredients. The satisfaction of biting through that crisp chocolate shell to reveal layers of creamy peanut butter and flowing caramel, all finished with a whisper of sea salt, is something truly special. These cups prove that homemade confections can rival anything found in gourmet chocolate shops, all while giving you complete control over ingredients and quality. Whether you're an experienced candy maker or trying your hand at confections for the first time, this recipe rewards you with treats that look as impressive as they taste.

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Recipe Questions

→ Can I use almond or sunflower seed butter instead?

Yes, both almond and sunflower seed butter can replace peanut butter for a nut-free alternative, maintaining a similar creamy texture.

→ What type of chocolate works best for coating?

Semisweet or milk chocolate chips or chopped bars melt smoothly and provide a balanced sweetness complementing the peanut butter and caramel.

→ How do I prevent caramel from crystallizing?

Gently melting sugar without stirring until it turns golden helps, then carefully whisking in butter and cream to keep the caramel smooth and creamy.

→ What is the purpose of flaky sea salt on top?

Flaky sea salt adds a subtle crunch and enhances the sweet and buttery flavors by providing a pleasing contrast.

→ How long should the cups chill before serving?

Allow chilling for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the chocolate and caramel set into firm, bite-sized treats.

→ Can these cups be stored for later?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to keep them fresh and maintain their texture.