Can I make these nut-free?

Absolutely! Sunflower seed butter is a fantastic replacement for peanut butter, and you can use it in exactly the same way. Be sure to check your protein powder for allergens if you’re making this for someone with nut allergies.

What type of protein powder works best?

Both plant-based and whey protein powders work well, but the flavor matters a lot. Pick a vanilla protein powder you already love, since it shapes the whole taste of the filling.

Can I use other sweeteners besides maple syrup?

Definitely. Honey, agave, or even a sugar-free syrup will work. Just keep in mind that natural sweeteners like maple and honey add a special depth and a little extra stickiness, which helps the filling hold together.

Why is my chocolate not setting properly?

Make sure your chocolate mixture isn’t too thin from excess coconut oil, and that you chill the cups long enough for the chocolate to firm up. Good-quality chocolate always helps with a crisp, satisfying snap.

Protein Peanut Butter Cups Recipe

Name: Protein Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon coconut oil (solid); 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter (ingredients: peanuts + salt only); 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1/3 cup vanilla protein powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Description

These Protein Peanut Butter Cups are a delicious, healthier twist on the classic treat, featuring creamy peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, and rich semi-sweet chocolate. Packed with protein, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and easy to make, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying snack or dessert that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chocolate

12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil (solid)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter (ingredients: peanuts + salt only)
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/3 cup vanilla protein powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Muffin Tin: Line a muffin tin with parchment paper muffin liners. This will prevent sticking and make it easy to remove your peanut butter cups later.
Melt the Chocolate: Add the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract once melted.
Create Chocolate Base Layers: Pour 1 heaping teaspoon of melted chocolate into each muffin liner and spread it to the edges to form a flat layer. Repeat for all 12 muffin cups.
Chill the Chocolate: Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator to set the chocolate base while you prepare the peanut butter filling. This helps solidify the layer.
Make the Peanut Butter Filling: Place the peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 15–20 seconds until runny. Stir in the vanilla protein powder, salt, and maple syrup until fully combined and creamy.
Assemble Peanut Butter Discs: Divide the peanut butter mixture into 12 discs, each slightly smaller than the muffin liner. Shape them by hand for best results.
Add Filling to Cups: Remove the muffin tin from the refrigerator. Place a peanut butter disc into each cup, on top of the chocolate layer.
Add Remaining Chocolate: If the remaining melted chocolate has thickened, microwave for another 15–20 seconds to loosen it. Drizzle the rest of the chocolate over each cup, smoothing it out evenly to the edges to seal in the peanut butter filling.
Chill Until Set: Place the muffin tin back in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or until the peanut butter cups are completely set and firm.
Serve and Store: Enjoy immediately, or store leftover peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for later snacking.

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best taste and texture.
Ensure the peanut butter is natural and contains only peanuts and salt for optimal results.
You can substitute other nut butters if desired, though flavor and texture may vary.
For a vegan version, ensure your chocolate and protein powder are plant-based.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 peanut butter cup
Calories: 210
Sugar: 13g
Sodium: 75mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg