Homemade Reese’s Cups with Chocolate Shell

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Chocolate Shell
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Collection

I’ve always been a fan of Reese’s Cups, but making them at home has taken my love to another level. The creamy peanut butter filling combined with a rich chocolate shell is simply irresistible. This recipe is incredibly straightforward and gives me the ability to customize the ingredients, ensuring that I create a treat that suits my taste perfectly. Whether for a movie night or a special occasion, these homemade treats are bound to be a hit. Let’s dive into how to whip up these delicious delights!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:57:35.411Z

When I first attempted to recreate Reese’s Cups at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was! The first batch didn’t quite set right, but I realized that melting the chocolate to just the right consistency makes a big difference. This ensures a smooth, even layer that encases the peanut butter perfectly.

After experimenting with different ratios of peanut butter to chocolate, I discovered that a dash of powdered sugar in the filling enhances the sweetness without overpowering the chocolate. It’s little tweaks like this that help me refine my recipe over time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Perfectly portioned for sharing or indulging

      

The Importance of Chocolate Quality

When making your own Reese’s Cups, the choice of chocolate is everything. Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic option that provides a balanced flavor, but consider using high-quality chocolate for a more gourmet touch. Look for brands with a high cocoa content (around 60-70%) to achieve a richer chocolate experience. The coconut oil isn’t just for consistency; it enhances the chocolate's glossy finish and helps it set with a lovely snap.

It's crucial to melt chocolate gently to avoid scorching. If using a microwave, do it in intervals and stir well after each to distribute the heat evenly. Alternatively, use a double boiler for more control, ensuring that the bowl does not touch the simmering water below. The chocolate should be smooth, with no lumps, achieving a pourable consistency for an optimal coating in your cups.

Peanut Butter Filling Tips

Choosing the right peanut butter affects the texture of your filling significantly. A creamy type offers the smoothness necessary for the filling, while natural peanut butter may add extra saltiness and a grainy texture. If you opt for natural peanut butter, ensure it is well-stirred to incorporate the oil that separates. You can also replace powdered sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol for a lower-carb version, but adjust to taste since sweetness levels vary.

For added flavor complexity, consider mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of maple syrup to your filling. These ingredients enhance the nutty notes of the peanut butter. Remember, the consistency should allow it to hold shape but remain creamy enough to scoop easily into your chocolate cups.

Assembling Your Cups Like a Pro

Proper assembly is key to achieving that perfect bite. When you fill each chocolate-lined cup, ensure the peanut butter filling is pressed slightly down to eliminate air pockets, making them denser and preventing expansion during chilling. Use a small cookie scoop for uniform portions; each tablespoon should fill about one-third of the way up the liner, allowing ample chocolate to cover the top later.

After pouring the remaining melted chocolate over the filling, take a moment to tap the muffin tin gently on the counter. This step allows air bubbles to escape, ensuring your tops are flawless. Once you chill the assembled cups, aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to fully set; this will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring a perfect bite every time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started!

For the Chocolate Shell

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your homemade Reese’s Cups!

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth.

Prepare the Cupcake Liners

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a small amount of the melted chocolate into each liner, enough to coat the bottom. Use the back of a spoon to spread it up the sides slightly, then let it set in the fridge for about 10 minutes.

Make the Peanut Butter Filling

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

Assemble the Cups

Once the chocolate shell has set, scoop about a tablespoon of the peanut butter filling into each chocolate-lined cup. Smooth it down with the back of a spoon.

Top with More Chocolate

Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling, ensuring that it is completely covered. Tap the muffin tin gently to remove any air bubbles.

Chill and Serve

Return the cups to the fridge and let them chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set. Enjoy your homemade Reese’s Cups!

For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

Make sure the chocolate is not too hot when pouring over the peanut butter filling, as it can cause the filling to melt.

Storage and Shelf Life

Storing your homemade Reese’s Cups properly is essential to maintain their taste and texture. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. If you prefer a firmer bite, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container. They can be enjoyed directly from the freezer, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

To avoid melting, be mindful of where you store your treats, keeping them away from direct sunlight or a heat source. If you plan to make them ahead for an event, the flavor develops over time, making the waiting period worthwhile!

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize your Reese’s Cups beyond the classic flavors. You can mix in crushed pretzels or pretzel bits for an added salty crunch or experiment with different nut butters like almond or cashew for unique twists. For those who want a bit of spice, introducing a sprinkle of cayenne in the peanut butter filling can give a surprising kick.

Another fun idea is to incorporate fillings like marshmallow fluff or cookie crumbs into the peanut butter mixture, creating a smores-inspired treat. The sky is the limit; each variation brings its own charm and keeps the recipe fresh and exciting!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate doesn't harden properly, it may have been overheated during melting. Be vigilant about the temperature and cooling it slightly before pouring it over the filling. Additionally, if the chocolate is too thick, you can remelt it with a splash of coconut oil to achieve the right consistency for pouring.

Another common issue is a messy filling overflow when topping with chocolate. To prevent this, ensure your peanut butter filling is as level as possible. If you do encounter overflow, simply refrigerate the cups a bit longer, then use a knife to trim off any excess chocolate around the edges for a clean presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will bring a richer flavor.

→ What can I substitute for the coconut oil?

You can use vegetable oil or butter as a substitute.

→ How long do these last?

They can last up to two weeks in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and a plant-based peanut butter for a vegan version!