Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

Name: Chocolate Almond Butter Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 cup almond butter; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Butter Cups at home! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy almond butter is simply irresistible. Each bite brings a delightful burst of flavor, and knowing that I crafted them from scratch makes them even more special. I love the versatility of these treats too; you can easily customize them by adding different nuts or spices to elevate the taste. Plus, they’re perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without feeling guilty!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:25:10.139Z

When I first tried to make Chocolate Almond Butter Cups, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. To my surprise, they became an instant hit in my household! I experimented with different melting chocolates until I found the perfect balance of richness and sweetness. One tip I discovered is to let the chocolate cool slightly before pouring over the almond butter to prevent it from melting away.

My friends often ask for these silky treats during gatherings, and they never fail to impress! What I love is that you don't need much time or many ingredients to whip them up, making them an easy yet impressive dessert option that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try making these at home, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

        Why You Will Love These Treats
        Decadent chocolate flavor paired with creamy almond butter
Perfectly balanced sweetness with a slight crunch
Great for snacking or serving at special occasions

      

Mastering the Chocolate Layer

Creating the ideal chocolate coating is essential for the perfect Chocolate Almond Butter Cups. When melting the chocolate chips with coconut oil, make sure to use a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until completely melted and shiny. This method helps prevent chocolate from seizing and ensures a smooth texture. For best results, avoid overheating; melted chocolate should be glossy and free from any lumps.

For a thinner chocolate layer, consider using a higher ratio of coconut oil to chocolate, but keep in mind that this will affect the final flavor and texture. If desired, you can substitute dark chocolate chips with milk or semi-sweet chocolate depending on your preferred sweetness level. Just be cautious, as varying the chocolate type can alter the melting point and consistency.

Perfecting the Almond Butter Filling

When preparing the almond butter filling, the key is to ensure it remains smooth and pourable yet dense enough to hold its shape. I recommend using natural almond butter without added sugars or preservatives to maintain a clean flavor. If your almond butter is stiff, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it before mixing in the honey and vanilla. A pinch of salt enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

If you're looking to experiment, substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. Additionally, you could enhance the almond butter filling by stirring in a handful of mini chocolate chips, or try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor. These variations can elevate your treat beyond the classic recipe without compromising its integrity.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Almond Butter Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To enjoy them at their best, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging, as this will ensure the chocolate softens slightly while the almond butter remains creamy. If you're planning to make a batch ahead, consider freezing them in single layers separated by parchment paper. They can last for up to three months in the freezer—simply pull them out for a quick treat!

When serving these treats, they make a delightful addition to dessert platters or can be enjoyed as an on-the-go snack. For an enticing presentation, sprinkle some sea salt on top just before chilling for added flair. You could also arrange them with fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas for a more colorful display. If these cups are for a special occasion, consider packaging them in cute boxes or jars with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients

For the chocolate cups

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the almond butter filling

1 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to use quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Directions

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 fully melted and smooth.

Prepare the molds

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Pour a tablespoon of melted chocolate into each liner, swirling to coat the bottom and sides. Place in the freezer for 5 minutes to set.

Make the almond butter filling

In a small bowl, mix the almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the cups

Remove the muffin tin from the freezer and add a teaspoon of the almond butter mixture into each chocolate-lined cup. Top with more melted chocolate, ensuring the almond butter is fully covered.

Chill and serve

Return the muffin tin to the freezer for an additional 10 minutes to fully set. Once set, remove from the liners and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Almond Butter Cups!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets for an extra flavor boost!

Common Troubleshooting

If your chocolate cups are cracking or breaking when removed from the liners, it may be a sign that the chocolate layer was too thin or that the cups weren’t chilled long enough to set properly. Ensure that each layer of chocolate is adequately coated and allow enough time for chilling so that the chocolate solidifies completely. This should help achieve a firmer structure.

Another common issue could be the almond butter filling being too runny or too thick. If you find it is too runny, try adding a little more almond butter until the desired consistency is achieved. Conversely, if it’s too thick, a dash of almond milk can help loosen it up, making it easier to scoop and spread.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for larger gatherings is straightforward! Simply multiply the ingredients by the desired number of servings. For instance, if you want to make 24 cups instead of 12, double all the ingredients. Don’t forget to use a larger muffin or cupcake tray, and monitor the chilling time as larger batches may need additional time to set completely in the freezer.

If you're making a mini version, use mini muffin liners instead. They can be a fun bite-sized treat and perfect for parties! Just halve the filling portions to avoid overflow and adjust the chilling time accordingly since they will solidify faster due to their smaller size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will yield a sweeter flavor, making the cups even more indulgent.

→ How do I store the Chocolate Almond Butter Cups?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes, feel free to substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter for a different taste!

→ Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure your chocolate chips and other ingredients are gluten-free, this recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.