If you have a sweet tooth that’s begging for a deliciously simple yet impressive treat, the Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Sea Salt Recipe is exactly what you need. These little cups pack the rich intensity of dark chocolate, the creamy comfort of peanut butter, and the fruity burst of jelly, all perfectly balanced with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that elevates each bite. They’re quick to whip up, brilliantly portioned, and offer that nostalgic twist reminiscent of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but made exquisitely fancy and bite-sized.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the smoothness of peanut butter to the crunch of sea salt, every element contributes significantly to the final irresistible treat.
- Dark chocolate chips: Use high-quality chocolate for a rich, deep flavor and smooth melting consistency.
- Coconut oil: Helps melt and thin the chocolate, giving it that glossy, silky finish.
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds a luscious, nutty creaminess that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Jam or jelly: Offers a sweet and tangy contrast that brightens the overall taste.
- Flaky sea salt: The finishing touch that enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors while adding a delightful crunch.
How to Make Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Sea Salt Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Start by melting the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each blast to prevent scorching. Once mostly melted, add the coconut oil and stir until you achieve a glossy, smooth mixture that will easily coat the muffin liners and solidify with a lovely sheen.
Step 2: Coat the Muffin Liners
Place 12 muffin liners on a flat tray or board. Spoon about two to three teaspoons of melted chocolate into each liner. Then, gently roll or swirl the liners to spread the chocolate up about a quarter inch along the sides. This forms the sturdy shell that will hold your fillings—make sure the chocolate evenly coats the bottom and sides without pooling too thickly.
Step 3: Chill the Chocolate Shells
Pop the tray into the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to harden completely. This step is key to ensure your fillings stay nicely encased later on without melting through or getting messy.
Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter Filling
Remove the hardened chocolate shells from the fridge and use the back of a spoon to spread a generous dollop of creamy peanut butter inside each cup. Rather than piling it in the center, gently distribute it toward the edges for an even layer that will complement every bite.
Step 5: Top with Jelly
Next comes the fruity sweetness—place a small dollop of your favorite jam or jelly directly on top of the peanut butter. This classic flavor combo transforms into a gourmet delight when wrapped in chocolate.
Step 6: Finish with Chocolate and Sea Salt
Using any leftover melted chocolate, spoon a final layer over the peanut butter and jelly in each cup to seal everything in. Before chilling again, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top. This final flourish enhances the complex flavors and adds just the right touch of crunch.
Step 7: Final Chill
Return the tray to the fridge for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully hardened. When ready, these Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Sea Salt Recipe treats are set to delight anyone lucky enough to bite into them.
How to Serve Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Sea Salt Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special presentation, consider topping each chocolate cup with a tiny fresh berry like a raspberry or a few crushed peanuts. They don’t just add visual appeal but also a subtle textural contrast that complements the smooth peanut butter and sweet jelly.
Side Dishes
These chocolate cups can shine on their own as a snack or dessert, but pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk makes for an irresistible combination that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cups on a pretty platter lined with parchment paper or nestled inside mini cupcake wrappers for an elegant look. For parties or gifting, place them in a decorative box with a ribbon and a handwritten tag—you’ll be passing along pure joy in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Sea Salt Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and maintain their texture wonderfully for up to a week, so you can enjoy the treat over several days without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time or store them longer, freezing works like a charm. Place the cups on a tray to freeze individually first, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly when you’re ready for them.
Reheating
Since these cups are best enjoyed chilled, you don’t really want to warm them up. To bring them back to the ideal melting point, simply take them out of the fridge or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving—this softens the chocolate slightly without losing structure.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nut butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter work beautifully and provide different but equally delicious flavor profiles.
What kind of jelly works best for this recipe?
Choose any jelly or jam you love, but classic grape, strawberry, or raspberry are favorites because their sweetness and tartness pair well with dark chocolate and peanut butter.
Is there a way to make these vegan and allergy-friendly?
Yes, by selecting vegan dark chocolate, using seed butters instead of peanut butter, and ensuring the jelly is free of animal products, you can tailor this recipe for various dietary needs.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
You can, but keep in mind that dark chocolate’s bitterness helps balance the sweetness of the jelly and richness of the peanut butter better, making for a more sophisticated flavor.
How long do these cups need to chill to set properly?
The initial chilling after coating and the final chilling after assembly both take about 5 to 10 minutes and 30 minutes respectively to ensure the chocolate hardens perfectly and the fillings stay put.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about crafting little treats that bring back childhood memories while feeling utterly indulgent. The Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Sea Salt Recipe offers just that, combining simple ingredients in an elegant and fun format. I encourage you to try making these yourself—once you do, they just might become your new favorite homemade treat to share with friends, family, or keep all to yourself!
Print
Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Sea Salt Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
These delicious Chocolate Cups are a delightful treat combining rich dark chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and sweet jelly, all topped with a touch of flaky sea salt for a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to prepare and perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 tablespoon coconut oil
Filling
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup jam or jelly
Topping
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once mostly melted, add the coconut oil and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Prepare Bases: Place 12 muffin liners on a sheet pan or cutting board. Spoon 2 to 3 teaspoons of the melted chocolate into each liner, then gently roll the liners to allow the chocolate to coat about a quarter inch up the sides, creating a chocolate shell.
- Chill Bases: Refrigerate the tray with the chocolate-lined muffin cups for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened sufficiently to hold its shape.
- Add Peanut Butter: Use the back of a spoon to spread a dollop of creamy peanut butter into each hardened chocolate cup, making sure it is distributed near the edges for an even filling.
- Add Jelly: Spoon a small dollop of jam or jelly on top of the peanut butter layer in each cup.
- Top with Chocolate and Salt: Use the remaining melted chocolate to cover the peanut butter and jelly layers, sealing each cup. Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt onto the top of each chocolate cup for added flavor.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the completed chocolate cups for 30 minutes or until fully hardened before serving.
Notes
- You can use any kind of jam or jelly according to your preference, such as raspberry, strawberry, or grape.
- If you do not have flaky sea salt, a pinch of regular salt can be substituted.
- Make sure to gently roll the muffin liners to avoid breaking the chocolate shell.
- Store the chocolate cups in the refrigerator to keep them firm, especially in warmer climates.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with a seed butter like sunflower seed butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
