Description
These Protein Peanut Butter Cups are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic treat, combining rich dark chocolate with a creamy peanut butter and protein powder filling. Perfect for a post-workout snack or a guilt-free indulgence, they are easy to make and freezer-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Layer
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips, divided
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or chocolate flavor)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Garnish
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt 1 cup of dark chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil together until smooth, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, spreading evenly.
- Freeze Chocolate Base: Place the muffin tin in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate layer is firm and set.
- Make Peanut Butter Filling: While the chocolate sets, mix the natural peanut butter, protein powder, and maple syrup in a bowl until fully combined and creamy.
- Add Filling: Spoon the peanut butter mixture evenly onto each frozen chocolate base in the muffin tin, gently pressing down to form an even layer.
- Top with Chocolate: Melt the remaining 1 cup of dark chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil until smooth, then carefully spoon over the peanut butter filling to cover completely.
- Sprinkle Sea Salt: Lightly sprinkle sea salt over the tops of each peanut butter cup for a flavorful finishing touch.
- Freeze Until Firm: Return the muffin tin to the freezer and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the peanut butter cups are firm and set.
- Serve: Remove the peanut butter cups from the muffin liners and enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils for a healthier filling.
- Protein powder flavor can be vanilla or chocolate depending on your preference.
- Store leftover peanut butter cups in the freezer to maintain firmness and freshness.
- Make sure to freeze the chocolate base before adding the filling to prevent mixing layers.
- Sea salt enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors; adjust amount to taste.
