Homemade Reese’s Cups with Cashew Butter
Highlighted under: Classic Collection
When I decided to make my own Reese’s Cups with cashew butter, I never expected them to turn out so deliciously decadent. I love the creamy texture of cashew butter, and when combined with silky chocolate, it creates the perfect indulgence. This recipe is also surprisingly simple, and it's an impressive treat for gatherings or just a little me-time. By the end of this, you’ll have a mouthwatering snack that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
As I mixed the smooth cashew butter with powdered sugar, I realized that this recipe was going to blow my mind. The subtle nutty flavor of the cashew butter complemented the rich chocolate perfectly. I also learned that using high-quality chocolate made a noticeable difference in taste and texture, giving a luxurious finish to these homemade treats that store-bought versions just can’t match.
One of my favorite tips was to let the chocolate set slightly before adding the cashew filling. This not only helps in preventing a messy mixture but also creates a lovely layer that encases the filling beautifully. Trust me, these homemade delights won’t last long!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate melts in your mouth
- Nutty flavor from creamy cashew butter
- Perfectly balanced sweetness and richness
The Role of Cashew Butter
Cashew butter is the heart of this recipe, contributing a unique creaminess and subtle nutty flavor that sets these cups apart from traditional versions. Its smooth texture ensures a delightful mouthfeel, allowing it to meld perfectly with chocolate. Unlike peanut butter, which can be overpowering, cashew butter maintains a balanced sweetness that complements the dark chocolate's bitterness effectively. If you prefer another nut butter, almond butter can also work well, but be aware it has a stronger flavor profile.
Using natural cashew butter is paramount in achieving the best results. Look for varieties with minimal additives; this will ensure a harmonious blend of flavor and texture. If your cashew butter separates, simply mix it well before use to achieve a consistent filling. This tip helps avoid a gritty texture, ensuring that each bite of your Reese’s Cup remains creamy and smooth.
Chocolate Tempering Tips
Tempering chocolate is not essential for this recipe, but it can enhance the texture and snap of the chocolate shell. If you choose to temper, aim for a temperature of about 88°F to 90°F for dark chocolate, which allows for a glossy finish and prevents the chocolate from becoming dull or streaky. A good visual cue is to look for a shiny surface once melted. If you notice the chocolate thickening, you may have overheated it—simply stir in a little more coconut oil to restore consistency.
When pouring the melted chocolate into the muffin liners, make sure to fill them halfway to allow room for the cashew filling. Avoid overfilling, as this can result in messy cups. I recommend using a small cookie scoop for a uniform amount of chocolate. If any chocolate spills over the sides, clean it up with a spatula for a neat finish, helping your homemade treats look as good as they taste.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Store your homemade Reese’s Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage—simply layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before biting into them, as this gives the chocolate a soft texture that melts beautifully in your mouth.
For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the final set in the fridge. This small addition enhances the flavor profile, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the richness of the chocolate. These cups can be served as a delightful dessert for gatherings, with coffee, or even as a sweet snack throughout the day—just be prepared for them to disappear quickly!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started:
For the Chocolate Shell
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
For the Cashew Filling
- 1 cup cashew butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make your tasty treats!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Homemade Reese’s Cups:
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted and smooth.
Prepare the Cups
Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, enough to coat the bottom. Use a spoon to spread it up the sides slightly. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
Make the Cashew Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cashew butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Cups
Once the chocolate has set, spoon a dollop of cashew filling into each chocolate cup. Pour more melted chocolate over the filling until fully covered.
Final Set
Refrigerate the cups again for about 20 minutes or until fully set. Once chilled, carefully remove them from the liners and enjoy!
Now you can indulge in your homemade treats!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets, or swap in almond butter for a different nutty taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common pitfall is not allowing the initial chocolate layer to set adequately. Rushing this step may lead to the cashew filling sinking into the chocolate, creating a less appealing aesthetic. Take the time to chill the chocolate in the muffin tin for at least 10 minutes. This ensures a solid base that will hold the filling without mixing.
Another mistake is over-mixing the cashew filling, which can make it overly runny. When combining the cashew butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, mix until just blended. If the filling seems too soft after mixing, chilling it for a few minutes in the refrigerator can firm it up, making it easier to handle and scoop.
Flavor Variations
If you're feeling adventurous, try infusing the cashew filling with different flavors to create unique variations. For instance, adding a tablespoon of maple syrup can enhance the sweetness while imparting a lovely maple flavor. Alternatively, incorporating a pinch of sea salt can elevate the nutty profile further and make for an exciting contrast with the chocolate.
You can also experiment with the type of chocolate used. For a sweeter treat, milk chocolate is an excellent substitute for dark chocolate. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using a chocolate with a higher cocoa content. Each type will alter the overall taste, allowing you to customize your Reese’s Cups according to your preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nut butters?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond butter, peanut butter, or any other nut butter you prefer.
→ How should I store these cups?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
→ Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate chips to make these cups completely vegan.
→ What can I use instead of powdered sugar?
You can use coconut sugar blended into a powder for a healthier alternative.
Homemade Reese’s Cups with Cashew Butter
When I decided to make my own Reese’s Cups with cashew butter, I never expected them to turn out so deliciously decadent. I love the creamy texture of cashew butter, and when combined with silky chocolate, it creates the perfect indulgence. This recipe is also surprisingly simple, and it's an impressive treat for gatherings or just a little me-time. By the end of this, you’ll have a mouthwatering snack that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Created by: Loretta Winslow
Recipe Type: Classic Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 cups
What You'll Need
For the Chocolate Shell
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
For the Cashew Filling
- 1 cup cashew butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted and smooth.
Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, enough to coat the bottom. Use a spoon to spread it up the sides slightly. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cashew butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Once the chocolate has set, spoon a dollop of cashew filling into each chocolate cup. Pour more melted chocolate over the filling until fully covered.
Refrigerate the cups again for about 20 minutes or until fully set. Once chilled, carefully remove them from the liners and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets, or swap in almond butter for a different nutty taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g