Introduction

These High-Protein Peanut Butter Cups are a delicious twist on the classic treat, packed with protein for a satisfying snack. They combine creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a boost of vanilla protein powder for an indulgent yet nourishing bite.

A close-up view of a tall stack of three chocolate peanut butter cups on a white marbled texture, each chocolate cup showing a dark brown, smooth outer chocolate layer with a ridged edge and a thick pale golden peanut butter filling inside. The top peanut butter cup is cut in half to show the dense creamy inside, with a sprinkling of coarse white salt crystals on the shiny top chocolate layer. At the bottom left, a half cup leans against the stack, showing the same layers, and to the right of the stack, a smaller piece is placed upright with visible layers and some salt on top. The setting is clean and bright with no other elements, focusing on the rich textures of 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 oil in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes total.
Step 3: Spoon 1 tablespoon chocolate into each liner. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread chocolate across the bottom and about 3/4 inch up the sides.
Step 4: Refrigerate chocolate until firm, about 1 hour.
Step 5: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together peanut butter, protein powder, and powdered peanut butter until smooth.
Step 6: In another small microwave-safe bowl, microwave remaining 2/3 cup (113 g) chocolate chips and 1/2 teaspoon 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) peanut butter filling into each chocolate cup. Using an offset spatula or clean fingertips, smooth to a flat layer. Top each with 2 teaspoons melted chocolate and spread to cover peanut filling. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Step 8: Refrigerate until set, at least 1 hour.
Step 9: Make Ahead: Cups can be made 1 week ahead. Transfer to an airtight container and keep refrigerated, or freeze up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.

Tips & Variations

Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet version and adjust salt accordingly.
Try dark chocolate chips for a deeper chocolate flavor and less sugar.
Add a few chopped peanuts into the peanut butter mixture for added texture.
Substitute vanilla protein powder with chocolate protein powder for a chocolate peanut butter combo.
If you don’t have powdered peanut butter, you can omit it, but it helps keep the filling firm and less greasy.

Storage

Store the peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows several round chocolate cups arranged on a white marbled surface, each with thick, wavy edges and a smooth, glossy dark chocolate top sprinkled with white sea salt flakes. Two cups in the front are cut in half to reveal a dense, light brown peanut butter filling inside, surrounded by a dark chocolate shell. The chocolate shell is thick, especially on the sides, giving a ridged texture, while the top layer is flat and shiny. The peanut butter layer looks creamy with a slightly rough texture inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy salted peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well but may alter the sweetness and texture slightly. You might want to add a pinch of salt if your peanut butter is unsalted.

What if I don’t have powdered peanut butter?

You can skip the powdered peanut butter, but the filling may be a bit softer and less firm. The powdered version helps reduce grease and stabilize the filling.