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; 1/2 cup almond butter; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 12 mini paper cupcake liners

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Butter Cups at home. There's something incredibly satisfying about crafting these delicious treats from scratch, especially when you can customize the filling to your liking. The rich, creamy almond butter mingling with luscious chocolate creates a perfect flavor combination that I can't resist. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these indulgent bites make for a fantastic dessert or snack that pleases everyone, from kids to adults.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:34:16.649Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Butter Cups has been a delightful culinary journey for me. I remember the first time I made them, the kitchen was filled with the rich aroma of melting chocolate. It’s a simple process, but the end result is so rewarding. One trick I learned is to slightly chill the almond butter before placing it in the cups, which makes it easier to scoop and gives the cups a perfect texture.

Every time I take a bite, I’m reminded of the joy of creating something homemade. I enjoy experimenting with the sweetness level of both the chocolate and the almond butter, tailoring these treats to my taste. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate coating that complements the nutty almond flavor
Simple to make with no baking required
Healthy alternative to store-bought candies
Great for satisfying sweet cravings without guilt

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Layer

When melting the chocolate, it’s crucial to use a microwave-safe bowl to avoid unwanted heat retention that could lead to burning. I recommend using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for maximum flavor. Make sure to stir the chocolate every 30 seconds while melting; this ensures that it heats evenly and reaches that smooth, glossy consistency without clumping or seizing.

Alternatively, for those who prefer a more controlled method, you can use a double boiler. This involves placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, allowing the chocolate to melt gently without direct heat. This method decreases the risk of burning, which can ruin your chocolate coating.

Filling Variations and Tips

While almond butter is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other nut butters like cashew or peanut. Each nut butter will impart a different flavor profile, giving your homemade cups a unique twist. For a sweeter touch, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling for added warmth and depth.

If you want to enhance the nutritional value of your filling, consider stirring in some ground flaxseeds or chia seeds. These will add healthy omega-3 fatty acids and fiber without altering the creamy texture. Just keep in mind that if you add too many dry ingredients, you may need to slightly adjust the wet ingredients to maintain the desired consistency.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups are set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you’d like to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Individually wrap each cup in parchment paper and place them in a sealed bag; they'll stay fresh for about three months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying for the best texture.

For serving, these cups are fantastic as is, but you can also elevate them by drizzling a bit of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving. This adds both visual appeal and a punch of flavor, making them a delightful treat for gatherings or a simple indulgence at home.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

Ingredients for Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
12 mini paper cupcake liners

Make sure you have everything ready for a smooth preparation!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups:

Melt the Chocolate

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

Prepare the Cups

Line a muffin tin with mini paper cupcake liners. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, enough to cover the bottom.

Mix the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and sea salt until well combined.

Fill the Cups

Spoon the almond butter mixture into each chocolate-lined cup, filling them about two-thirds full.

Top with Chocolate

Pour more melted dark chocolate over the almond butter to cover it completely. Tap the tin gently to remove air bubbles.

Chill and Set

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.

Once set, enjoy your delightful homemade treats!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different nut butters or add crushed nuts into the filling for extra texture.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

One common issue people face when making chocolate cups is the chocolate hardening too quickly before you can layer in the filling. To prevent this, ensure your kitchen is at a moderately warm temperature and work swiftly. If your chocolate does cool too much, simply reheat it briefly in the microwave to bring it back to the right consistency before topping with the chocolate layer.

Another point to watch for is overfilling the cups with almond butter. Aim to leave a small space for the chocolate topping. If overfilled, you might end up with messy edges as the melting chocolate spills over. A helpful tip is to use a piping bag for filling; it gives more control and helps to achieve cleaner lines.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to serve a larger crowd or simply want to make a bigger batch, scaling this recipe is easy. Just double or triple the quantities used for the chocolate and fillings while maintaining the same ratios. A larger muffin tin or multiple tins can accommodate the increased mixture without compromising cooking or cooling time.

Keep in mind that doubling may increase the time needed for melting chocolate or chilling the cups. Always check for the chocolate's set texture before removing them from the fridge. Larger quantities can sometimes need an extra 5 to 10 minutes in the refrigerator to firm up completely.

Making it Guilt-Free

If you're looking to cut back on sugar, consider swapping out the honey or maple syrup for a sugar-free sweetener of your choice, like stevia or erythritol. This won't significantly affect the overall texture but can reduce the calorie content while keeping those sweet cravings at bay. Just be sure to adjust the quantity based on the sweetener's potency.

For a richer flavor with added health benefits, try making your own nut butter. This is particularly easy with almonds; simply blend roasted almonds until smooth. Not only can you control the sweetness, but you can also include health-boosting elements like coconut oil or additional spices in your homemade butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will be sweeter. Adjust the honey accordingly.

→ How long can I store these in the fridge?

These cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan chocolate chips and maple syrup as a sweetener to keep them vegan-friendly.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with other nut butters, like cashew or peanut butter, or even add coconut flakes for a tropical twist.