Irresistible Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Recipe

I love Reese’s, but candy prices are through the roof! Here are some homemade Reese’s peanut butter “cups” for you to make. They are so good, and the best part is that you can use whatever ingredients you want without all of that yucky preservatives. If you want, you could also make your own peanut butter for them, use different chocolate, or throw in some Nutella instead. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not some sea salt sprinkled on top, or maybe crispy rice cereal? Or even caramel!

What I Love About This Irresistible Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Recipe

Sometimes I take for granted that we live right near Hershey. But that’s not where the Reese’s peanut butter cup was born. That honor goes to Frosty Hills, PA, also near us. Here in South Central PA, we have tons of candy and chip companies (like Dove Chocolate, Martin’s Potato Chip Factory, and Utz).

I remember getting Reese’s … the real ones … every year for Easter. This recipe brings me back to happy times, waiting for the Easter bunny to show his cotton tail and give us candy. Some other reasons why I love this recipe:

1. Customizable Ingredients: This homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups recipe lets you control the ingredients, making it easy to adjust for dietary needs or personal tastes. Whether you’re accommodating vegan preferences, avoiding preservatives, or experimenting with different chocolates and fillings, this recipe is adaptable.
2. Healthier Option: Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups at home allows for a healthier version of the classic snack. You can choose natural sweeteners, organic ingredients, and even make your own peanut butter to avoid unwanted additives or excess sugar.
3. Cost-Effective: Preparing these peanut butter cups at home is more economical than buying them from the store. It offers better value and the pleasure of creating a delicious treat on your own.
4. Fun to Make: The process is simple and enjoyable, suitable for a family activity or a relaxing baking session. The straightforward recipe ensures anyone can make them, no matter their cooking skill level.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: These homemade peanut butter cups are versatile, ideal for holidays, gifts, or personal indulgence. The ability to customize shapes and decorations lets you tailor them to any event or preference.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler for melting chocolate
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Fork or toothpick (for dipping in chocolate)

A Wee Bit About The History Of The Reese’s

The story of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups begins with a man named Harry Burnett Reese. Reese, a former dairy farmer and shipping foreman for Milton S. Hershey, started his own candy business in the 1920s. Inspired by his work experience at the Hershey Company, Reese began experimenting with chocolate coatings for his various candy creations. In 1928, he introduced the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, a simple yet revolutionary confection that combined creamy peanut butter with a coating of smooth milk chocolate. His company began in Frosty Hill, Pennsylvania (York County) on May 24, 1879.

This delicious innovation quickly became popular, leading Reese to focus exclusively on producing these peanut butter cups. The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups were initially sold in bulk to candy counters, where they were weighed and sold by the pound. The success of Reese’s cups was built on the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, wrapped in a convenient, portable form.

Pairing Suggestions

• Coffee or Espresso … why not try out my Hazelnut Mocha Coffee Recipe?
• Milk for a classic pairing.
• Red Wine for the adult version.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, but how about No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe?
• Fruit is always good!

FAQs

1. Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate wafers for the coating? Yes, chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for chocolate wafers in the recipe. The final texture of the chocolate might be a bit firmer once it sets, but this variation will not significantly affect the taste or enjoyment of the peanut butter cups.
2. What kind of peanut butter should I use? For the best texture and flavor in your peanut butter cups, opt for creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter. The types of peanut butter where oil separation occurs, such as natural peanut butters, are not recommended as they can affect the consistency of your filling.
3. How should I store leftover peanut butter cups? Leftover peanut butter cups should be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. For short-term storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Remember to let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving to ensure they retain their creamy texture.
4. Can I make these peanut butter cups vegan? To make vegan peanut butter cups, ensure you use dairy-free chocolate for the coating and substitute any dairy butter with a vegan alternative in the peanut butter filling. This adjustment allows you to enjoy the same delicious flavors while adhering to a vegan diet.
5. Are there any fun variations I can try? There are numerous variations you can explore to customize your peanut butter cups. From adding a layer of your favorite jam for a PB&J version to experimenting with different fillings like Nutella or almond butter. You can also try different chocolates for the coating, such as dark, milk, or white chocolate, to suit your taste preferences.
6. How can I get a smooth top on my peanut butter cups? For a smooth top on your peanut butter cups, gently tap the tray on the counter after filling the molds with chocolate and peanut butter. This action helps remove air bubbles and even out the surface, resulting in a professional-looking finish.
7. Can I make these without a muffin tin? If you do not have a muffin tin, silicone molds or mini muffin cups are excellent alternatives. These options are readily available at most grocery stores and offer the flexibility to create peanut butter cups in various sizes and shapes.
8. What’s the best way to melt chocolate for the coating? Melting chocolate for the coating can be done using a double boiler or microwave. If using a microwave, heat the chocolate in short intervals, stirring in between, until it is completely smooth. This method ensures even melting and prevents the chocolate from burning. Add a little milk or water if necessary.
9. Can I add extra crunch or make them fruity? For added texture, consider incorporating pretzel pieces into the melted chocolate or using crunchy peanut butter. To introduce a fruity element, mix in chopped dried cherries or coconut. These additions can transform the flavor profile of your peanut butter cups, making them even more irresistible.
10. How can I make mini peanut butter cups? For bite-sized treats, use mini muffin tins or candy molds. This approach allows for the creation of smaller peanut butter cups, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a small snack.
11. Can I make these without any added sugar? If you prefer a less sweet version, opt for sugar-free chocolate and reduce or omit the sweetener in the peanut butter filling. This modification can help cater to dietary preferences or restrictions without compromising on the overall enjoyment of the treat.
12. Can I add a layer of jam or jelly to the peanut butter cups? Incorporating a thin layer of your favorite jam or jelly into the peanut butter cups adds a fruity twist to the classic treat. Be mindful of the moisture content of the jam to avoid affecting the texture of the final product.

The Final: Irresistible Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Recipe