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 semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup almond butter; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Sea salt, for sprinkling

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I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Butter Cups at home. There's something incredibly satisfying about combining rich, velvety chocolate with the creamy goodness of almond butter. It's an indulgent treat that feels both luxurious and comforting. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, and you can easily customize it by adjusting the sweetness or incorporating your favorite toppings. Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or impressing guests, these cups are a delightful addition to any treat box.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:25:35.433Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Butter Cups was a delightful journey into the world of chocolate. I experimented with different types of chocolate and ended up mixing semi-sweet and dark chocolate for a balanced depth of flavor. The addition of a pinch of sea salt on top surprisingly enhances the sweetness of the almond butter, creating that perfect sweet and salty contrast.

While melting the chocolate, I found that using a double boiler allowed for even melting without burning. This technique also made it easier to control the temperature, ensuring a glossy finish. Trust me, once you taste these cups, you’ll be hooked!

        You Will Love These Cups Because
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy almond butter
Perfectly balanced sweetness with a touch of salt
Customizable toppings for a personalized touch

      

Creating the Perfect Chocolate Shell

When making the chocolate shell for the Almond Butter Cups, it’s crucial to maintain a gentle heat while melting the chocolate. Using a double boiler helps control the temperature, preventing the chocolate from seizing. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and glossy, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. If you notice any lumps or the chocolate thickening, it may need a touch more heat or stirring to return it to a perfect consistency.

Coating the cupcake liners thoroughly is key to achieving a good chocolate shell that holds together upon unwrapping. When you pour the melted chocolate into the molds, give the tin a slight twist and tilt to coat the sides evenly. This will help create a thicker shell that can stand up to the almond butter filling without collapsing. Allow the first layer to set before adding the filling, which should take about 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator.

Perfecting the Almond Butter Filling

The almond butter you choose can significantly affect the flavor and texture of your cups. For a creamier filling, opt for a natural almond butter without added oils or sugars. This type typically provides a smoother texture and a more intense almond flavor. If you prefer a sweeter filling, consider adjusting the honey or maple syrup to taste, but be cautious as too much can make it runny.

Mixing the almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until completely smooth is essential. This ensures a consistent filling that doesn’t separate when added to the chocolate cups. I suggest using a hand mixer to achieve an ultra-smooth consistency, which will contrast beautifully with the crunchy chocolate exterior. If you like a bit of texture, you could also fold in some chopped almonds or crispy rice cereal right before filling.

Storage and Variations

These Chocolate Almond Butter Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, they can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, place the cups in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Feel free to get creative with variations! Try using different nut butters, like cashew or peanut butter, for a unique twist. You can also personalize them with toppings like crushed nuts, sea salt flakes, or even a drizzle of caramel before chilling. This adaptability not only caters to different tastes but also makes it fun to experiment and find your favorite combination.

Ingredients

For the cups

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sea salt, for sprinkling

Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or sweeteners!

Instructions

Melt the chocolate

In a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips together over medium heat until smooth. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Prepare the molds

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Add a tablespoon of melted chocolate into each liner, rotating the tin to coat the bottom and sides.

Mix the filling

In a bowl, combine almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the cups

Once the chocolate in the molds has set slightly, add a spoonful of the almond butter mixture on top of the chocolate. Then, cover with more melted chocolate.

Chill and serve

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on each cup and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or until firm. Enjoy your homemade treats!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. You can also add chopped nuts or coconut flakes in the filling for extra texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate clumps while melting, it may have gotten too hot. Always chop your chocolate into uniform pieces to help it melt evenly, and avoid direct contact with steam or boiling water. If you notice clumps, remove it from heat immediately and add a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to salvage the batch. This can help re-emulsify the chocolate.

When it comes to layering, if the top layer of chocolate doesn’t adhere well to the almond butter, it could be due to the filling being too warm. Be sure to let the chocolate set properly before adding the almond butter. If you find that the cups aren’t holding their shape after chilling, you might need to increase the chocolate layer thickness in future batches.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve these chocolate almond butter cups on a decorative platter or in a gift box. They can be dusted with cocoa powder, drizzled with white chocolate, or garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate their appearance. This makes them a lovely treat for gatherings or as homemade gifts to impress friends and family.

Pairing these cups with a glass of cold almond milk or a warm cup of coffee enhances the chocolate and nutty flavors beautifully. They also make for a great addition to dessert tables, where guests can indulge in a sweet treat without overwhelming their palates. Offering variations filled with fruits or different nut butters can provide guests with options that cater to various flavor preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will result in a sweeter cup.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate and agave syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I freeze these chocolate cups?

Yes, they freeze well! Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of almond butter?

You can substitute it with peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut butter of your choice.