Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

Name: Chocolate Almond Butter Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 cup almond butter; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore making homemade Chocolate Almond Butter Cups! There's something incredibly satisfying about melting rich chocolate and filling it with creamy, nutty almond butter. Not only do they taste amazing, but they're also super easy to whip up. I love to keep a batch in my fridge for those chocolate cravings. These little treats bring together the smoothness of chocolate and the richness of almond, all while being a delightful, healthier option for a sweet snack.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:25:35.123Z

When I first attempted to make chocolate almond butter cups, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding it was. The blend of dark chocolate and almond butter creates a unique harmony that’s hard to resist. One tip I learned was to temper the chocolate slightly before pouring it into the molds, which ensures a beautiful sheen and prevents blooming.

After experimenting with different ratios of chocolate to almond butter, I found the perfect balance that keeps the treats satisfying without being overly rich. I like to sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before they set, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

        Why You'll Love These Cups
        Decadent chocolate exterior with a creamy almond butter center
Easy to customize with your favorite nut butters
Great for meal prep or quick snack options

      

The Art of Melting Chocolate

Melting chocolate is a key technique for this recipe, and there are a couple of methods you can use. If you opt for a double boiler, fill the bottom pot with a couple of inches of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place the top pot with the chocolate over it, making sure it doesn't touch the water. Stir the chocolate until it's melted and shiny, avoiding any water droplet contamination, which can cause the chocolate to seize. If using the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

For the right texture, add the coconut oil to the chocolate before melting. This combination will give your chocolate cups a nice gloss and smoother finish. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure the chocolate doesn't burn; it should be just melted and flowing easily. If it starts to seize or harden, you can stir in a little more warm coconut oil to rescue it.

Tips for Filling and Storing

Filling these cups can be a fun creative process. Make sure your almond butter is at room temperature so it's soft and easy to spoon into the chocolate cups. You can also mix in variations like cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the almond butter. Just remember, if you want to reduce sweetness, adjust the honey or maple syrup accordingly—there's no need to compromise on flavor!

Storage is straightforward as well; once the cups are set, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze them for longer preservation. If you're freezing them, make sure they are individually wrapped or separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before savoring their deliciousness.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cups

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Almond Butter Filling

1/2 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together. Stir until smooth and completely melted.

Prepare the Molds

Using a silicone muffin tray or decorative cups, spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each mold. Tilt the molds to coat the sides and create a thin layer. Place them in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and salt until well combined and smooth.

Fill the Cups

Remove the chocolate from the freezer. Spoon a teaspoon of almond butter filling into each cup, pressing it down slightly. Top with another layer of melted chocolate to cover the filling completely.

Set and Serve

Return the filled molds to the freezer for another 15 minutes to set. Once firm, remove the cups from the molds and enjoy your homemade chocolate almond butter cups!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment by adding in different flavorings, such as vanilla extract or even espresso powder, to the almond butter for a personalized touch.

Customizing Your Almond Butter Cups

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to substitute the almond butter with other nut butters like creamy peanut or cashew butter. You can also experiment with flavored nut butters—like chocolate or vanilla variants—if you're feeling adventurous. This customization adds unique flavor profiles while still providing that delightful nutty richness.

If you're looking to make these cups vegan, ensure that you use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based sweetener, such as agave syrup. This simple swap allows everyone to enjoy these treats without compromising dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate doesn’t set properly, it could be due to moisture getting into it during the melting process. Be diligent about using dry utensils and containers, as even a tiny amount of water can cause chocolate to become grainy. If this happens, you can add a splash of coconut oil to help remelt and smooth it out.

Another common issue might be overfilling the cups with almond butter. Make sure to spoon just enough to ensure that it fits comfortably without spilling over. Press it slightly but not too hard, as you want a nice layer of chocolate to cover without overflow. Keeping a clean edge around the molds makes for a cleaner presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the cups.

→ How long do these cups last?

In a sealed container, they can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use nut-free alternatives?

Absolutely! You can replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter or any other nut-free spread.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chocolate chips and any sweeteners used are gluten-free, the cups are suitable for a gluten-free diet.