Name: Protein Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 2 tablespoons coconut oil; 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey; 1/4 cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)

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Meet your new obsession: Protein Peanut Butter Cups! These little bites are equal parts snack, dessert, and smart fuel for your day. Creamy peanut butter and silky dark chocolate come together in an irresistible duo, with a boost of protein that makes them ideal after the gym or whenever you need a treat you can actually feel good about. Whether you’re looking for a healthier sweet fix or a quick, satisfying pick-me-up, Protein Peanut Butter Cups deliver decadence, convenience, and a whole lot of flavor.

Protein Peanut Butter Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in these Protein Peanut Butter Cups is thoughtfully chosen, creating layers of taste and the perfect bite. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll whip up something that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Here’s why you’ll want every ingredient in the mix:

Natural peanut butter: Delivers a creamy, nutty richness that’s essential for that classic peanut butter cup taste, with healthy fats and protein.
Coconut oil: Gives the filling its luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture while keeping things dairy-free.
Maple syrup or honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps everything hold together; plus, you can pick your favorite for a custom touch.
Vanilla or chocolate protein powder: Packs in the protein and a boost of flavor—vanilla for mellow sweetness or chocolate for deeper richness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, making the peanut butter filling taste like pure bliss.
Dark chocolate chips: Bring intense cocoa goodness and that satisfying snap when you bite in.
Flaky sea salt (optional): A sprinkle on top balances the sweetness and makes every bite pop with flavor.

How to Make Protein Peanut Butter Cups

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Grab your mini muffin tin and line it with paper liners. This not only keeps things tidy and makes for easy cleanup, but it also gives your Protein Peanut Butter Cups that classic, crinkled edge we all love.

Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Layer

In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), protein powder, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until silky smooth. You’re aiming for a thick but spreadable filling that smells absolutely heavenly.

Step 3: Scoop and Shape the Base

Using a teaspoon, scoop about one teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture into each lined muffin cup. Press it down gently so it forms a tidy base—no need to stress about perfection, just make sure it’s spread evenly in each cup so you get a bite of everything in each mouthful.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

Pour the dark chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until they’re melted and glossy. Be careful not to overheat; chocolate can seize up fast, and silky melted chocolate is what gives these Protein Peanut Butter Cups their signature finish.

Step 5: Top with Chocolate and Chill

Spoon the melted chocolate over the peanut butter bases, smoothing the tops so the filling is completely covered. Sprinkle on some flaky sea salt if you’re feeling fancy—trust me, it’s worth it. Pop the muffin tin in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cups are set and ready to pop out.

How to Serve Protein Peanut Butter Cups

Garnishes

These Protein Peanut Butter Cups are gorgeous with just a twinkle of flaky sea salt on top, but you can also scatter chopped roasted peanuts, a pinch of freeze-dried berries, or a drizzle of extra melted chocolate for a touch of drama and added crunch.

Side Dishes

While these are definitely the star of any snack table, they pair beautifully with fresh fruit like strawberries or banana slices on the side. If you’re putting together a post-workout snack plate, try them with Greek yogurt and a handful of granola—so satisfying and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, stack the cups on a tiered platter for parties or wrap them in parchment and tie with twine for a homemade edible gift. You can even nestle Protein Peanut Butter Cups inside a bento box with berries and nuts for a fun lunchbox surprise everyone will envy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Protein Peanut Butter Cups keep best in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week. Chilling not only locks in the texture but also keeps the chocolate snappy and the peanut butter layer creamy.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch ahead of time (which I highly recommend), stash your prepared cups in a sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to three months—just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before devouring so you get the perfect texture.

Reheating

While you don’t need to reheat these, if you prefer a gooier center, let the Protein Peanut Butter Cups sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before eating, especially if they’ve been frozen. The filling softens just enough to make every bite outrageously good.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut butter in this recipe?

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even a sunflower seed butter if you’re nut-free all work beautifully here. Each brings its own unique flavor, so feel free to experiment to keep your Protein Peanut Butter Cups exciting.

What type Snack

You can use any protein powder you love, dairy-based or plant-based, and either vanilla or chocolate. Just make sure you enjoy the flavor, since it does come through in the finished cups. If your powder is unsweetened, taste the filling and adjust the sweetener to balance it out.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing or getting grainy?

Be sure to melt the chocolate in short bursts and stir frequently. If it gets too thick, you can stir in a small spoonful of coconut oil to bring back its silky consistency. It’s easy, and keeps the chocolate on your Protein Peanut Butter Cups beautifully shiny.

Are these suitable for kids?

Definitely! Kids love the classic chocolate and peanut butter combination, and you can even tailor them with their favorite nut butter or a naturally flavored protein powder. They’re a win for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or treats that sneak in a little extra nutrition.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

Yes, this recipe is incredibly easy to scale up or down. If you’re making them for a party or meal prepping, double the ingredients for a bigger batch. If you just want a few, halve everything—you’ll have fresh Protein Peanut Butter Cups with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to treat yourself (and your loved ones) to something that’s as delicious as it is nourishing, these Protein Peanut Butter Cups are calling your name. With just a few simple ingredients and almost zero effort, you’ll have the ultimate snack for whenever you want to indulge smartly. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making them again and again!

Protein Peanut Butter Cups Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: 12 mini cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these protein peanut butter cups for a delicious and nutritious treat. Made with natural ingredients and packed with protein, these homemade candies are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout refuel.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

1/2 cup natural peanut butter
2 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating:

1 cup dark chocolate chips
Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Base: Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, protein powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Form the Cups: Scoop 1 teaspoon of the mixture into each muffin liner and press down to form a base.
Coat with Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips in the microwave, then spoon over the peanut butter base.
Chill: Sprinkle with sea salt if desired and freeze for 20–30 minutes until set.
Enjoy: Store in the fridge or freezer until ready to eat.