Hey there! Today, I’m super excited to share with you one of my all time favorite treats: Mini Protein Peanut Butter Cups! These little bites of joy are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, but with a protein-packed twist. Whether you’re looking for a post workout snack or a guilt-free dessert, these mini cups will totally hit the spot!

Method

Prepare the Chocolate Base

Start by preparing the chocolate base for your protein cups. Take a microwave-safe bowl and add 1/3 cup of chocolate chips along with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Microwave this mixture in short intervals of about 20-30 seconds, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up and become grainy. Once the chocolate is silky smooth, take a small spoonful and drop it into each mini muffin liner. Make sure to coat the bottom evenly. After filling each liner, place the muffin tin in the freezer for about 5 minutes. This quick freeze will help set the chocolate layer, giving it a firm base for the peanut butter filling.

Make the Filling

While the chocolate base is chilling, it’s time to prepare the peanut butter filling. In a small mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and vanilla protein powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it forms a thick, smooth, and uniform consistency. The protein powder will slightly thicken the peanut butter, making it more manageable when assembling the cups.

Assemble the Cups

Take the muffin tin out of the freezer once the chocolate layer has solidified. Now, scoop a small spoonful of the peanut butter mixture and place it directly on top of the set chocolate layer in each liner. Spread it gently to form an even layer, but don’t press too hard to avoid disturbing the base. Next, melt the remaining 1/3 cup of chocolate chips with the second teaspoon of coconut oil in the same manner as before. Once melted, pour the chocolate over each peanut butter layer, covering it completely. Try to spread the chocolate smoothly so it forms a nice, glossy top layer.

Final Freeze

After assembling the cups, return the muffin tin to the freezer. Let the cups freeze for at least 20 minutes, or until fully set. Once they are firm, you can remove them from the liners and enjoy your mini protein peanut butter cups! Store them in the fridge to keep them fresh and maintain their texture.

Necessary Tools

Mini muffin tin
Mini muffin liners (about 19-20)
Microwave-safe bowl
Small mixing bowl
Spoon
Freezer

Mini Protein Peanut Butter Cups

Recipe by Henry AveryCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Total time

minutes

Ingredients

2/3 cup chocolate chips (I recommend @hukitchen gems!)
2 tsp. coconut oil
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (Costco’s works great!)
1/3 cup vanilla protein powder (I love @sproutliving protein)

Directions

Prepare the Chocolate Base: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/3 cup of chocolate chips with 1 tsp. of coconut oil. Stir until smooth. Drop a small spoonful of the melted chocolate into each mini muffin liner. Place the tin in the freezer for about 5 minutes to set while you prepare the filling.
Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter with the vanilla protein powder until well combined. It should be smooth and thick.
Assemble the Cups: Remove the tin from the freezer and add a small spoonful of the peanut butter mixture on top of each set chocolate base. Melt the remaining 1/3 cup of chocolate chips with the remaining tsp. of coconut oil. Pour over each peanut butter layer to cover.
Final Freeze: Pop the muffin tin back into the freezer for at least 20 minutes or until fully set. Enjoy these tasty little cups! (Best stored in the fridge.

Notes

Don’t skip freezing after the first chocolate layer, or the peanut butter filling might sink.
Make sure the chocolate is smooth and lump-free before pouring, so your cups have a nice finish.
Use creamy, not chunky, peanut butter for a smoother texture.

Serving Suggestions

I love having these straight from the fridge, but you can also freeze them and just thaw for a minute before eating. They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or a protein shake!

Fun Fact

Did you know that adding protein powder to treats not only boosts nutrition but also helps keep you full for longer? It’s a win-win!

Conclusion

These Mini Protein Peanut Butter Cups are my go to for a quick snack that feels like a treat. They’re simple, delicious, and packed with protein. Give them a try, and let me know how they turn out! Happy snacking!