Peanut Butter-Caramel Cups
Chewy, creamy peanut butter cups with caramel and chocolate, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for parties or as homemade treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and margarine together and chill.
- Melt almond bark over a double boiler.
- Drop a small amount of melted chocolate into decorative tins.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture or caramel into each tin.
- Cover with more melted chocolate and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth texture, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and margarine thoroughly before chilling. If you prefer a healthier option, consider substituting natural peanut butter for the regular kind. For a more intense flavor, use dark chocolate instead of almond bark. Remember to work quickly when layering the chocolate and fillings to prevent them from hardening too soon.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter-Caramel Cups make a delightful dessert on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with Jack Straw Carrots for a sweet-savory combination. For an impressive presentation, serve them on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruit or whipped cream for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Peanut Butter-Caramel Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, but avoid using the microwave as it may alter their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter-Caramel Cups contains roughly 212 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield delicious results.
What if I can't find almond bark?
If almond bark is unavailable, you can use chocolate chips or melting chocolate instead. Just ensure they are melted properly, and consider adding a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening to achieve a smooth consistency when coating the cups.
How can I make these vegan?
To make vegan Peanut Butter-Caramel Cups, replace margarine with coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute, use dairy-free chocolate for coating, and ensure the caramel dip is dairy-free as well. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan treat without compromising on flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).