Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

Name: Chocolate Almond Butter Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 cup almond butter; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I can’t express how satisfying it is to create these Chocolate Almond Butter Cups at home. With their glossy chocolate exterior and luscious almond butter center, every bite feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple. I love that I can customize the sweetness and even add other ingredients like a sprinkle of sea salt or a hint of vanilla. Making these cups is not only a fun activity but also a great way to impress friends and family with something they might think is store-bought, but is crafted from my own kitchen!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:28:19.265Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Butter Cups became a cherished weekend project for me. The process is both therapeutic and rewarding—melting the chocolate, mixing the almond butter just right, and then waiting patiently for them to set. One tip I discovered is to use quality chocolate to ensure that the final treat tastes genuinely gourmet. The richness of high-quality chocolate truly elevates the flavor!

Every time I share these cups, people ask for the recipe—it's hard to believe how straightforward they are! I love that I can customize the filling, experimenting with different nut butters or adding a pinch of sea salt for that perfect balance. It’s a treat that combines simplicity with that wow factor, and I can’t get enough of it!

Why You'll Love These
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy almond butter
Perfectly balanced sweetness that satisfies cravings
Great for gifting or impressing at gatherings

Perfecting the Chocolate Cups

The key to crafting the perfect chocolate cup lies in melting the chocolate correctly. Use dark chocolate chips with at least 60% cacao for a rich flavor that balances well with the almond butter. Ensure your microwave-safe bowl is completely dry to avoid seizing the chocolate. Melt the mixture in 30-second intervals at medium power, stirring between each session until smooth and glossy. Overheating can lead to gritty chocolate, a common issue that can be avoided by monitoring closely.

When filling the muffin tin, it’s important to spread the melted chocolate evenly up the sides to create a strong structure. Use the back of a spoon or a small spatula to do this effectively. It’s okay if it’s a bit messy; the goal is to have enough chocolate to hold the filling but not to make it overly thick. A thin layer will yield a better ratio of chocolate to almond butter, enhancing the texture and flavor balance in each bite.

Versatile Almond Butter Filling

The almond butter filling allows for creativity. Feel free to experiment with different nut butters like cashew or peanut butter for varied flavors. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using unsweetened almond butter and adjusting the maple syrup to your taste. I often add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile—this little tweak can make the sweetness pop and elevate the overall indulgence of the cups.

For a texture that stands out, consider adding chopped nuts such as almonds or even a handful of dark chocolate chunks to the almond butter filling. This not only adds crunch but also an additional layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smoothness of the almond butter. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the filling quantity slightly to accommodate these additions.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups are fully set, transferring them into an airtight container is a great way to preserve their freshness. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Just wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn, and they can last for up to three months!

Serving these cups can be delightful as they are, but for an impressive presentation, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzling of melted chocolate on top just before serving. These little touches can make them look decidedly gourmet and elevate the experience for your guests, making them feel like a special treat that goes beyond just homemade.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful Chocolate Almond Butter Cups:

For the Chocolate Cups

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Almond Butter Filling

1/2 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's start making these delicious cups!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Prepare the Cups

Using a mini muffin tin, add a spoonful of melted chocolate to each cup, spreading it up the sides. Place the tin in the fridge for about 10 minutes to set.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined. You can adjust sweetness to taste.

Fill the Cups

Spoon the almond butter mixture into each chocolate cup, filling them about three-quarters full.

Top with Chocolate

Pour the remaining melted chocolate over each filled cup, ensuring the almond butter is completely covered.

Set and Serve

Chill in the refrigerator for another 20 minutes until fully set. Then, pop them out of the tin and enjoy!

Now that your delicious Chocolate Almond Butter Cups are ready, treat yourself to a well-deserved bite!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate cups do not come out of the tin cleanly, it's likely that they were not chilled long enough. Ensure you've allowed them to set in the fridge for at least 20 minutes after topping with chocolate. If you experience sticking, you might consider lightly greasing the muffin tin before pouring in the chocolate or using silicone molds for easier removal.

Another common issue is uneven filling, which can lead to some cups being overly sweet. A simple fix is to fill a small piping bag with the almond butter mixture, allowing for precise filling. If you find that the almond butter is too stiff, consider warming it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften it for easier handling.

Dietary Modifications and Variations

For those who are looking for a dairy-free version, ensure that your chocolate chips are confirmed dairy-free; many brands offer vegan options. Alternatively, you can make your own chocolate using cocoa powder, coconut oil, and maple syrup as a sweetener. This would not only suit vegans but also provide a fun cooking opportunity during preparation!

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding flavoring to the chocolate. A drop of peppermint extract or a hint of orange zest can transform the basic recipe into something unique that stands out at gatherings. Just be cautious with the amount you add—start small and adjust to your taste preference, as these strong flavors can easily overpower the chocolate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will make the cups sweeter.

→ How should I store the cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute almond butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to use peanut butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter you prefer.

→ Is it necessary to use coconut oil?

Coconut oil helps to give the chocolate a nice shine and smoother texture, but you can omit it if desired.