PEANUT BUTTER MARSHMALLOW CUPS

There’s something undeniably comforting about the sweet combination of peanut butter and marshmallow, especially when they’re tucked into smooth chocolate cups. Imagine biting into a rich chocolate shell that gives way to a creamy peanut butter layer, followed by a fluffy marshmallow center that melts into sweetness. These little cups are indulgent, nostalgic, and guaranteed to bring smiles with every bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe takes me back to childhood bake sales and holiday treat tables where every tray seemed to hold something magical. Peanut butter cups were always a favorite, but when someone added marshmallow into the mix, it felt like discovering a hidden treasure. That fluffy surprise inside a chocolate shell instantly turned a familiar candy into a playful delight.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Peanut butter cups have their roots in American candy-making history, first popularized in the 1920s. Marshmallow treats, on the other hand, date back centuries, originally crafted from the mallow plant. The combination of peanut butter and marshmallow found fame through fluff sandwiches, affectionately called “Fluffernutters.” These cups are like a sweet spin on that tradition, turning an everyday sandwich combo into an irresistible dessert bite.

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Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

When you whip up a batch of these treats, you’ll discover they’re more than just candy—they’re an experience.

Versatile: Perfect for dessert tables, after-school treats, or gift boxes.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples create an impressive homemade candy.

Quick and Easy: Minimal cooking required, just melting, mixing, and layering.

Customizable: Swap chocolates, flavor extracts, or nut butters for endless variety.

Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults will fight over the last one.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Store them for days without losing their magic.

Great for Leftovers: Any extras (if you’re lucky) can be reinvented into sundaes or milkshake mix-ins.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Getting the perfect cup is easier than you think, but a few pro tips make all the difference:

1. Chill between layers to ensure clean separation and crisp bites.
2. Use good-quality chocolate for a glossy, snappy shell.
3. Lightly grease muffin liners so the cups release easily.
4. Let marshmallow crème soften slightly before spreading for smooth layers.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To keep things simple and stress-free, gather these tools before starting:

Muffin Tin: Helps shape perfect individual cups.

Paper Liners: Essential for easy removal and neat presentation.

Heatproof Bowl: Ideal for melting chocolate safely over simmering water or in the microwave.

Spatula: For spreading smooth layers evenly.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy makes the filling just right.

Ingredients in Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

The beauty of these cups lies in the harmony of just a few pantry-friendly ingredients working together.

1. Chocolate Chips: 2 cups, melted for the rich outer shell that holds everything together.
2. Peanut Butter: 1 cup creamy, provides the nutty, salty-sweet middle layer.
3. Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup, mixed into the peanut butter for structure and sweetness.
4. Marshmallow Creme: 1 cup, delivers the fluffy, gooey center.
5. Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted, blended with peanut butter for creaminess.
6. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, adds a touch of warmth and depth.
7. Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes the pantry calls for swaps, and that’s just fine.

Chocolate Chips: Use dark, milk, or white chocolate as desired.
Peanut Butter: Almond or cashew butter makes a great twist.
Marshmallow Creme: Mini marshmallows melted with a splash of corn syrup.
Butter: Coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Ingredient Spotlight

Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is the heart of this recipe, bringing nutty richness and a satisfying contrast to sweet marshmallow.

Marshmallow Creme: This fluffy ingredient creates the gooey surprise that makes these cups unforgettable.

Instructions for Making Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

Making these cups is a fun, step-by-step layering process that feels almost like crafting candy magic.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Line a muffin tin with paper liners to prep your molds.
2. Combine Ingredients: Mix peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Melt chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, stirring until silky.
4. Assemble the Dish: Spoon a layer of melted chocolate into each liner, followed by a peanut butter layer, then marshmallow crème. Top with another layer of chocolate.
5. Cook to Perfection: Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Finishing Touches: Once firm, gently peel off paper liners.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Share or savor these sweet cups immediately, but don’t be surprised when they disappear quickly.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The first bite delivers a snap of chilled chocolate, followed by the creamy, slightly salty peanut butter middle. Then comes the marshmallow—light, fluffy, and sticky in the best way—turning each bite into a perfect dance of textures. Sweet, salty, smooth, and chewy all mingle together, leaving you craving another.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few extra tricks can make your candy-making even smoother:

• Melt chocolate slowly to avoid seizing.
• For cleaner layers, chill briefly after adding each one.
• Add a drizzle of white chocolate on top for a bakery-style finish.

What to Avoid

Even the best treats can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Rushing the layers, which leads to uneven cups.
• Overheating chocolate, making it grainy instead of smooth.
• Using natural peanut butter without mixing, which can make the filling oily.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: ~240

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These cups are perfect for prepping ahead. You can make them a day or two before serving and keep them chilled in an airtight container. They also freeze beautifully—just thaw in the fridge before serving. Leftovers (if there are any) can be stored up to a week in the fridge.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

Arrange them on a pretty platter, tuck them into a holiday candy box, or serve them alongside coffee for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. They also make a great surprise in a lunchbox or wrapped as edible gifts.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you somehow have extras, chop them into chunks for:

• Ice cream sundaes
• Milkshake mix-ins
• Cookie dough stir-ins

Additional Tips

Keep hands clean by serving these cups slightly chilled, which helps the chocolate shell stay intact. You can also double the chocolate for a thicker outer layer if you love a strong chocolate bite.

Make It a Showstopper

For a truly stunning presentation, swirl melted white chocolate on top before chilling. You can also sprinkle crushed peanuts or mini marshmallows for texture and visual flair.

Variations to Try

1. Swap the marshmallow for caramel for a gooey twist.
2. Use dark chocolate for a more sophisticated flavor.
3. Add a pinch of cinnamon to the peanut butter layer for warmth.
4. Try sunflower butter for a nut-free option.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but stir it well to avoid oily separation.

2. Do I need special molds?

No, a standard muffin tin works perfectly.

3. Can I freeze these cups?

Absolutely, they freeze and thaw well.

4. How long do they keep?

Stored in the fridge, they last about a week.

5. Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil instead of butter.

6. What if I don’t have marshmallow crème?

Melt mini marshmallows with a touch of corn syrup.

7. Can I make them smaller?

Yes, use mini muffin tins for bite-sized versions.

8. Will they melt at room temperature?

They soften, so keep them chilled until serving.

9. Can I add mix-ins to the peanut butter?

Yes, crushed cookies or rice cereal add crunch.

10. Are they gluten-free?

Yes, if your marshmallow crème and chocolate are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups are the perfect blend of childhood nostalgia and grown-up indulgence. Each bite delivers a medley of textures and flavors that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them, or just enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these little treats are worth every moment in the kitchen. Go ahead, make a batch, and let the sweet magic begin.