These S’mores Peanut Butter Cups are a fun twist on the classic treat! With creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate, they also have a crunchy graham cracker layer. Yum!
Honestly, making these is like a kid’s dream come true! I love popping one in my mouth after dinner; it’s like a campfire treat without the hassle of a fire! 🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate: I recommend semisweet chocolate for the ideal balance of sweetness. If you prefer dark chocolate, go for it! You can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, and don’t hesitate to use dairy-free chocolate if needed!
Marshmallows: I love the classic large marshmallows, but mini marshmallows fit better in the cups. If you’re vegan, look for vegan marshmallow options available today. They still taste great!
Graham Crackers: Traditional graham crackers are perfect, but you can use gluten-free graham crackers if you need a gluten-free option. You could even substitute crushed cookies like Digestives for a different flavor!
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is the best choice, but any nut or seed butter works too! I’ve enjoyed these with almond butter. If nut-free, use sunflower seed butter for a similar texture.
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate?
Melted chocolate is key to this recipe! Be careful when melting to avoid burning it. Here’s how to do it right:
- For microwave: Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, stir, then repeat until smooth.
- For double boiler: Fill a pot with a couple of inches of water, bring it to a simmer, then place a heat-safe bowl on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water. Stir until melted.
The double boiler method keeps the chocolate from overheating and helps achieve a glossy finish. Whichever method you choose, keep a close eye on it!
How to Make S’mores Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 12 large marshmallows or 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 12 graham cracker squares (or about 1 cup graham cracker crumbs)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for creamier peanut butter layer)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness in peanut butter)
- Additional crushed graham crackers for topping (about 1/4 cup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time, plus an hour for refrigerating. So overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes to make a delicious batch of S’mores Peanut Butter Cups.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper or silicone liners. This will help you easily remove the cups once they are set!
2. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until it’s smooth. If you prefer, you can use a double boiler. Just boil water in a pot and place a heat-safe bowl over it with the chocolate — this method helps prevent burning.
3. Create the Chocolate Base:
Spoon about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the melted chocolate into the bottom of each muffin liner. Use the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate to cover the bottom evenly. Then, place the pan in the freezer for about 10 minutes to let it firm up.
4. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer:
In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter with unsalted butter and powdered sugar (if you choose to add them) until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Peanut Butter and Graham Cracker:
Place about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture on top of the chocolate in each cup. Then, press a graham cracker square firmly on top of the peanut butter.
6. Add the Marshmallows:
Place one large marshmallow or enough mini marshmallows to cover the graham cracker in each cup. Don’t be shy; pack them in tightly!
7. Cover with Chocolate:
Spoon the remaining melted chocolate over the marshmallows, gently pressing down slightly to make sure everything is covered. Finally, sprinkle the crushed graham crackers on top for that extra crunch.
8. Chill:
Pop the tray in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm. This is what makes everything set together perfectly!
9. Serve:
Once set, remove the paper liners, and get ready to enjoy your S’mores Peanut Butter Cups! They’re sure to be a hit!
This recipe combines classic s’mores flavors with the creamy goodness of peanut butter, creating an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate is recommended for the best flavor balance, you can use dark chocolate for a richer taste or milk chocolate for a sweeter treat. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, many delicious dairy-free chocolate products are available!
How Do I Store Leftover S’mores Peanut Butter Cups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag to keep them fresh.
Can I Make These Vegan?
Yes, you can! Use vegan chocolate, and swap the regular marshmallows for vegan marshmallows. Additionally, substitute the creamy peanut butter for a nut or seed butter of your choice. These adjustments will still give you a delicious treat!
What Can I Use Instead of Graham Crackers?
If you don’t have graham crackers on hand, you can use cookies like Digestives, shortbread, or even gluten-free versions. Crushed pretzels or other crunchy snacks can also add a fun twist!
