Name: High-Protein Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
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)

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Introduction

These High-Protein Peanut Butter Cups are a delicious twist on the classic treat, packed with creamy peanut butter and boosted with vanilla protein powder. They offer a satisfying, healthier indulgence perfect for a post-workout snack or anytime craving.

A close-up view of a stack of five chocolate peanut butter cups on a white marbled surface, with the top cup cut in half to show two layers: a smooth, thick, dark brown chocolate outer layer and a creamy light brown peanut butter filling inside. Each cup has a wavy edge pattern and a shiny texture with some flakes of sea salt scattered on top and around the stack. The cups are stacked unevenly, with one piece leaning on the side, revealing the contrast between the chocolate and peanut butter. 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 coconut oil in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes total.
Step 3: Spoon 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate into each liner. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate across the bottom and about 3/4 inch up the sides.
Step 4: Refrigerate the chocolate-lined cups until firm, about 1 hour.
Step 5: In a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter, protein powder, and powdered peanut butter until smooth.
Step 6: In another small microwave-safe bowl, microwave the remaining 2/3 cup (113 g) chocolate chips and 1/2 teaspoon coconut 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) of the peanut butter filling into each chocolate cup. Using an offset spatula or clean fingertips, smooth to a flat layer. Top each with 2 teaspoons of melted chocolate and spread to cover the peanut filling. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Step 8: Refrigerate the peanut butter cups until set, at least 1 hour.
Step 9: For make-ahead storage, transfer the cups to an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Tips & Variations

Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more wholesome filling.
Swap vanilla protein powder for chocolate-flavored to deepen the chocolate taste.
Add chopped peanuts inside the filling for extra crunch.
Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and less sugar.
If you don’t have coconut oil, substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil.

Storage

Store the peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. To enjoy, thaw refrigerated cups at room temperature for a few minutes before eating, or unwrap frozen cups and let sit for 10–15 minutes.

How to Serve

The image shows many round chocolate peanut butter cups on a white marbled surface. Each peanut butter cup has two layers: a shiny dark brown chocolate outer layer with a smooth top sprinkled with coarse sea salt flakes, and a thick creamy light tan peanut butter filling inside. Some cups are whole, showing their rippled edges and flat tops, while others are cut in half, revealing the contrast between the smooth chocolate shell and the dense peanut butter center inside. The cups are close together, filling the frame with rich textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will work fine and add a nice texture, but the filling might be slightly less smooth.

Is powdered peanut butter necessary?

Powdered peanut butter helps lighten the filling and reduce fat while enhancing peanut flavor. You can omit it if needed but the filling may be denser.