Introduction

These high-protein peanut butter cups are a delicious and satisfying treat that combine rich chocolate with a creamy, protein-packed peanut butter filling. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthier dessert option, they offer the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition.

A stack of four thick chocolate cups with ridged edges is shown, each filled with a dense, creamy peanut butter center in a light golden color; the top cup is cut in half, showing the thick dark chocolate outer layer and the rich peanut butter filling inside, while a separate half cup leans against the stack revealing the smooth texture of both the chocolate and peanut butter. The peanut butter filling contrasts with the dark brown chocolate shell, and the top surfaces of the cups have light salt flakes sprinkled on. The stack is on a white marbled surface with soft lighting, highlighting the smooth and textured parts of the chocolate and peanut butter layers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips, divided
1 teaspoon refined coconut oil, divided
2/3 cup creamy salted peanut butter (such as Skippy All-Natural)
1/3 cup (32 g) vanilla protein powder
2 tablespoons powdered peanut butter (such as PB2)
Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Line 10 cups of a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
Step 2: In a small microwave-safe bowl, microwave 1 1/3 cups (227 g) chocolate chips and 1/2 teaspoon oil in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes total.
Step 3: Spoon 1 tablespoon chocolate into each liner. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread chocolate across the bottom and about 3/4 inch up the sides.
Step 4: Refrigerate chocolate until firm, about 1 hour.
Step 5: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir peanut butter, protein powder, and powdered peanut butter until smooth.
Step 6: In another small microwave-safe bowl, microwave remaining 2/3 cup (113 g) chocolate chips and 1/2 teaspoon oil in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth, about 1 1/2 minutes total.
Step 7: Dollop a scant 2 tablespoons (about 22 g) peanut butter filling into each chocolate cup. Using an offset spatula or clean fingertips, smooth to a flat layer. Top each with 2 teaspoons melted chocolate and spread to cover peanut filling. Sprinkle with sea salt if using.
Step 8: Refrigerate until set, at least 1 hour.
Step 9: Make Ahead: Cups can be made 1 week ahead. Transfer to an airtight container and keep refrigerated, or transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze up to 1 month.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, warm peanut butter slightly before mixing with protein powder.
Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet chocolate flavor.
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the peanut butter mixture for a unique twist.
Substitute powdered peanut butter with powdered almond butter for a different nut flavor.

Storage

Store the peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw refrigerated cups for a few minutes at room temperature or warm frozen cups slightly before eating.

How to Serve

The image shows multiple chocolate peanut butter cups arranged closely on a white marbled surface. Each cup has three layers: a smooth, shiny dark brown chocolate layer on top sprinkled with coarse white sea salt flakes, a thick, dense creamy peanut butter layer of golden tan color in the middle, and a dark chocolate base layer holding the structure. The sides of the chocolate cups have a ridged texture, creating a scalloped edge around each one. Two cups in the front are cut in half, clearly showing the thick peanut butter layer inside surrounded by the rich chocolate shell. The overall look is rich, smooth, and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy salted?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to mix it well as it may separate. You might want to add a pinch of salt if your peanut butter is unsalted.

Is there a substitute for the protein powder?

If you don’t have protein powder, you can omit it or replace it with finely ground oats or additional powdered peanut butter, though this will slightly change the texture and protein content.