Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

If you want to experience pure happiness, start making your own candy. The best place to start is with these Vegan Peanut Butter Cups! Velvety dark or semi sweet chocolate encases a creamy peanut butter filling that rivals even Reese's! A flaky sea salt topping really takes them over the edge, making them better than anything you can purchase in a store. These Vegan Peanut Butter Cups are melt-in-your-mouth good and incredibly easy to make. Let's learn how together!

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Ingredients Needed for Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

• Vegan Graham Cracker Crumbs (½ cup): Graham cracker crumbs are used in the peanut butter filling to provide a texture that mimics that of store-bought peanut butter cups. It slightly dries out the filling to ensure it isn't runny when you bite into the candy.
• Powdered Sugar (½ cup): Powdered sugar sweetens the peanut butter mixture and helps create a smooth, creamy consistency. It also aids in binding the filling together, making it easier to shape into disks.
• Peanut Butter (½ cup): Peanut butter is the star ingredient in peanut butter cups. Chiefly, it provides a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture that contrasts with the chocolate coating. It's the core of the filling, and its flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the powdered sugar.
• Vegan Butter (4 tbsp, divided): Vegan butter is a plant-based alternative to dairy butter, typically made from ingredients like coconut oil, palm oil, or other vegetable oils. It is used both in the peanut butter filling and chocolate coating. It adds richness and helps achieve a smooth consistency.
• Nondairy Chocolate Chips (2 cups): Nondairy chocolate chips are the outer shell of the peanut butter cups. They provide the classic chocolatey coating that contrasts with the sweet peanut butter filling. When melted and then hardened, they create a delicious chocolate shell around the peanut butter, completing the iconic peanut butter cup experience.
• Flaky Sea Salt (to top, optional): Flaky sea salt is an optional but delightful addition to vegan peanut butter cups. When sprinkled on top of the chocolate coating, it enhances the overall flavor profile by adding a subtle salty contrast to the sweetness of the peanut butter and chocolate. It also provides a satisfying crunch and elevates the overall texture of the dessert.

Steps to Make Vegan Peanut Butter Cups (with pictures!)

1. Peanut Butter Filling: Add graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar to a large bowl and stir to combine. In a small, microwave-safe bowl combine the peanut butter and 2 tablespoon vegan butter. Pop in the microwave and heat for 30 seconds. Pour peanut butter mixture into the bowl with the graham cracker crumbs and stir to combine.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Add nondairy chocolate chips to another microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second increments stirring after each until chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Add in remaining 2 tablespoon vegan butter and stir until melted.
3. Paint: Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with paper liners. Fill each liner with a heaping tablespoon of melted chocolate. Grab a small paint brush and gently “paint” the chocolate about ⅓ of the way up the sides of the wrapper.
4. Assemble: Take one tablespoon on the peanut butter mixture and shape it into a 1-1 ½ inch disk between your fingers. Press the disk lightly into a chocolate-brushed paper liner. Continue until all of the peanut butter cups have filling. Divide the remaining melted chocolate evenly between the peanut butter cups. Spread the chocolate out with your finger to cover the filling and smooth the tops. Sprinkle each with flaky sea salt if desired.
5. Set: Place assembled peanut butter cups in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality vegan chocolate chips, peanut butter, graham crackers, and vegan butter. Quality ingredients will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your peanut butter cups.
2. Check Ingredient Labels: Ensure that all your ingredients are truly vegan by checking the labels. To this end, look out for hidden dairy or animal-derived ingredients in products like chocolate chips or graham crackers.
3. Choose "Unnatural" Peanut Butter: Opt for a non-natural peanut butter brand like Jif or Skippy. To explain, these will provide a pure peanut flavor and a smoother texture for the filling. As natural peanut butter separate they are more difficult to measure and work with.
4. Melt Chocolate Gently: When melting chocolate for the coating, use a double boiler or microwave it in short bursts at low power. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Chocolate can scorch easily, so gentle melting is crucial.
5. Line Your Muffin Tin or Tray: Use paper or silicone cupcake liners to make it easier to remove the peanut butter cups once they're set. This also helps maintain their shape.
6. Smooth Top Layer: Use a spoon or your finger to smooth out the chocolate on top of each peanut butter cup so it's even and flat. It absolutely does not have to be perfect. Your candies will taste great no matter what.
7. Add Flaky Sea Salt Mindfully: If you're using flaky sea salt, sprinkle it lightly and evenly over the chocolate coating. A little goes a long way, so taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
8. Chill Prior to Proper Storing: You want to make sure your peanut butter cups are properly set before transferring them to an airtight storage container. This will help keep your cups looking nice.

What Peanut Butter is Vegan?

Vegan peanut butter is widely available, and most peanut butter brands are inherently vegan. When shopping for vegan peanut butter, here are some key points to consider:

1. Check the Ingredients: Look at the ingredient list. Vegan peanut butter should contain only peanuts (and sometimes salt). There should be no added dairy, honey, or other animal-derived ingredients.
2. Natural Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter is often vegan by default. It typically consists of roasted peanuts and maybe a pinch of salt. Check the label to confirm.
3. Avoid "Honey" Varieties: Some peanut butter brands offer honey-flavored peanut butter, which is not vegan due to the presence of honey. Ensure you choose plain, unsweetened varieties.
4. Read Allergen Warnings: Always check for allergen warnings, as some peanut butter brands may process peanuts in facilities that handle dairy or other allergens. These warnings are essential for those with severe allergies.
5. No Palm Oil (if desired): Some vegans choose to avoid products with palm oil due to environmental concerns. Check the ingredient list if you prefer palm oil-free peanut butter.
6. Look for Certified Vegan Labels: Some brands may carry a "Certified Vegan" label on their packaging to make it easier for consumers to identify vegan products.

Popular vegan peanut butter brands include:

• Smucker's Peanut Butter (the plain variety)
• Skippy's Peanut Butter
• Jif Peanut Butter (honey-free variety)
• Justin's Classic Peanut Butter

Remember that ingredient formulations can change, so it's always a good practice to double-check the label whenever you purchase peanut butter to ensure it aligns with your vegan dietary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any chocolate chips for vegan peanut butter cups?

No, not all chocolate chips are vegan. Look for chocolate chips labeled as "vegan" or "dairy-free" to be sure they don't contain any milk or dairy ingredients. Many brands also offer vegan chocolate chips made from dairy-free cocoa solids and fats.

What can I use as a substitute for graham cracker crumbs in the crust?

You can use crushed vegan-friendly cookies (like vegan graham crackers or vegan chocolate cookies) as a substitute for graham cracker crumbs in the crust. Oatmeal cookies or almond meal also work well.

How do I make sure the peanut butter filling is not too runny?

Use a non-natural peanut butter to prevent a runny filling. Additionally, adding powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs helps thicken the filling and give it a creamier texture.

Can I use almond butter or another nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut or seed butter of your choice to make vegan nut butter cups. Just ensure that the alternative nut or seed butter is vegan and free of any unwanted additives.

FAQ's Continued

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when melting?

Be cautious when melting chocolate. Use a low heat setting and avoid any moisture contact, as even a small amount of water can cause chocolate to seize. Stir continuously to promote even melting.

Can I customize the toppings on vegan peanut butter cups?

Absolutely! You can customize your peanut butter cups by adding toppings like crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to the chocolate coating for extra flavor and texture.

Can kids with nut allergies enjoy vegan peanut butter cups?

If there's a nut allergy concern, consider using a nut-free alternative, such as sunflower seed butter or a soy-based peanut butter substitute, to make allergen-free versions of peanut butter cups.

How do I ensure the layers in peanut butter cups set properly?

Allow each layer to set slightly at room temperature before adding the next layer. This helps prevent mixing and ensures well-defined layers in your peanut butter cups. Set in the fridge to chill for 30 minutes after fully assembled before enjoying.

How to Serve Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

Here are some tips for serving these little, heavenly bites:

1. Chilled or at Room Temperature: Vegan peanut butter cups can be served either chilled from the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Chilling them will result in a firmer texture, while serving them at room temperature allows for a slightly softer and creamier experience.
2. Unwrapping: If you used paper or silicone cupcake liners, gently peel them away before serving. This helps to reveal the peanut butter cups' attractive appearance.
3. Garnish (Optional): If you want to enhance the visual appeal and flavor, you can garnish your vegan peanut butter cups with a few additional ingredients:
   • Dusting of Cocoa: Lightly dust the tops with cocoa powder for a touch of sophistication.
   • Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, almonds, or cashews on top for a nutty crunch.
   • Shredded Coconut: A sprinkling of shredded coconut adds a tropical twist.
   • Flaky Sea Salt: A pinch of flaky sea salt can provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cups.
4. Serve with a Beverage: Vegan peanut butter cups pair wonderfully with various beverages. Consider serving them with:
   • Hot Coffee or Tea: The warmth of coffee or tea complements the richness of the peanut butter cups.
   • Vegan Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve peanut butter cups alongside a scoop of vegan ice cream.
5. Portion Size: Keep in mind that vegan peanut butter cups can be quite rich and filling, so a smaller portion can be satisfying. You can also cut them into halves or quarters for smaller servings.

Whether you're serving them as a dessert at a gathering or enjoying them as a special treat for yourself, vegan peanut butter cups are sure to be a hit with their irresistible flavor and texture.

How to Store Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

Properly storing vegan peanut butter cups helps maintain their freshness and texture. Here's how to store them:

1. Refrigeration: The most common way to store vegan peanut butter cups is in the refrigerator. To demonstrate, place them in an airtight container or a covered plate, making sure they're not stacked too closely to prevent sticking together.
2. Freezing: If you want to store vegan peanut butter cups for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Here's how to do it:
   • Place the peanut butter cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they're not touching.
   • Freeze them for 1-2 hours or until they are firm.
   • Transfer the frozen peanut butter cups to an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
   • Label and date the container or bag.
   • Store them in the freezer for up to several months.
3. Room Temperature (Short Term): Vegan peanut butter cups can be stored at room temperature for a short period, usually up to a few days, especially if the ambient temperature is not too warm. However, they may become softer at room temperature.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat: Keep the container or bag of peanut butter cups away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as excessive heat can cause them to melt or lose their shape.
5. Thawing Frozen Peanut Butter Cups: If you've frozen peanut butter cups and want to enjoy them, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for a shorter period. Thawing in the refrigerator is preferable to prevent condensation on the chocolate.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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More Vegan Peanut Butter Recipes

• Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
• Vegan Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
• Vegan Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes
• Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies
• Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies