Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Pretzels

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Pretzels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups milk chocolate chips; 1 cup crushed pretzels

Highlighted under: Golden Planning

I recently decided to try my hand at making homemade peanut butter cups, and I couldn't be happier with the results! With their perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a delightful crunch from pretzels, these treats became an instant favorite in my home. The secret lies in the salty-sweet contrast that the pretzels bring to each bite. I can't wait to share this simple yet indulgent recipe with you, as it combines three beloved ingredients into one irresistible snack.

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:41:35.640Z

I have to admit, the first time I made these peanut butter cups, I was blown away by how easy they were to prepare! The combination of melted chocolate and creamy peanut butter is simply irresistible, but adding pretzels really takes them to the next level. The salty crunch offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness, creating a snack that’s truly irresistible.

Next time I make these, I'll try drizzling a bit of melted chocolate on top of the pretzels for an even richer flavor profile. It’s those little adjustments that can elevate a great recipe into something extraordinary. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this one handy for all your gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfect combination of salty and sweet flavors
Rich, smooth texture of homemade peanut butter
Fun and crunchy twist with pretzels

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these homemade peanut butter cups serves a specific purpose. The creamy peanut butter provides not only the signature flavor but also a rich texture that complements the smooth chocolate layer. Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar in the peanut butter mixture gives a velvety softness that melts in your mouth. Don’t rush this step; ensure the mixture is blended until perfectly smooth to avoid any graininess in the final product.

The choice of chocolate is also crucial. Milk chocolate chips deliver a sweeter, creamier taste, which pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the pretzels. If you prefer darker chocolate, consider using semi-sweet or even dark chocolate for a more intense flavor profile. Just remember that the balance of sweetness will shift, so adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the peanut butter mixture to maintain harmony in the final treat.

Chilling and Texture

Chilling is a vital step in setting the chocolate correctly. Aim for about 20 minutes in the refrigerator, but check for readiness after 15 minutes; the chocolate should be firm to the touch and not sticky. If your kitchen is particularly warm, you might need a bit longer. This ensures a perfect snap when biting into your peanut butter cup, contrasting beautifully with the creamy center.

For those who like a bit of creativity, consider experimenting with the filling. You can add a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling to enhance the salty-sweet combination. Additionally, if you want to introduce a bit of color, consider folding in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the peanut butter mixture for added texture and visual appeal.

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Cups

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups milk chocolate chips
1 cup crushed pretzels

These ingredients create a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with paper liners and pour a layer of melted chocolate into each liner. Next, add a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture, followed by more melted chocolate on top to cover completely.

Add the Pretzels

Sprinkle crushed pretzels on top of the chocolate layer to finish. Press gently to ensure they stick.

Chill and Serve

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Remove from the liners and enjoy!

These steps will lead to delightful homemade treats that are sure to impress!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Additionally, feel free to incorporate other toppings like chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Storage Tips

These homemade peanut butter cups can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, for longer storage, I recommend refrigerating them where they will remain fresh for about two weeks. The chocolate may lose a bit of gloss in the fridge, but the texture and flavor will be perfectly preserved.

If you're preparing in advance, you can freeze these treats as well. Just layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and they will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes to return to that delightful, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Serving Suggestions

These peanut butter cups make fantastic gifts or snack options for gatherings. To elevate your presentation, try serving them on a decorative plate or in small cupcake liners. You can even drizzle some melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle extra crushed pretzels for visual appeal and added crunch.

For a fun twist, consider pairing these treats with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. The rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter contrast wonderfully with a bitter drink, enhancing the flavors of your snack. You could also experiment with bringing in other flavors, such as a hint of espresso or flavored extracts like almond to customize the experience to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter works well and provides a nice flavor twist.

→ How long can I store these peanut butter cups?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What if I don’t have chocolate chips?

You can use chocolate bars, just chop them up into small pieces before melting.

→ Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel on top.