Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

$- 1 cup dark chocolate chips - 1/2 cup almond butter - 1 tablespoon maple syrup - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - Pinch of sea salt - Mini muffin liners The main ingredients create a rich flavor. Dark chocolate chips give a deep taste. Almond butter adds creaminess and nutty notes. Maple syrup brings sweetness, while vanilla and sea salt balance it all. Mini muffin liners shape your cups perfectly. - Crushed almonds - Sea salt flakes - Shredded coconut Optional toppings enhance your treat. Crushed almonds add crunch. Sea salt flakes give a savory touch. Shredded coconut adds a tropical twist. You can mix and match to suit your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Prepare the Muffin Tin: Start by lining a mini muffin tin with mini muffin liners. This holds the shape of your cups and helps with easy removal later. - Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, add 1 cup of dark chocolate chips. Heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time. Stir well after each burst until the chocolate is smooth. Watch closely to prevent burning. - Create the Chocolate Base: Use a teaspoon to scoop out about 1/2 tablespoon of melted chocolate. Spoon this into each muffin cup. Make sure the bottom is covered evenly. - Set the Base: Place your muffin tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This helps the chocolate base harden. - Prepare the Almond Butter Filling: While the chocolate sets, take a small bowl. Mix 1/2 cup of almond butter, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until smooth. - Add the Almond Butter Layer: After the chocolate base is solid, take the muffin tin out of the freezer. Add about 1 teaspoon of the almond butter mixture on top of each chocolate layer. Spread it gently. - Top with More Chocolate: Pour another layer of melted chocolate over the almond butter in each cup. Use about 1/2 tablespoon per cup to cover it well. - Add Optional Toppings: If you want to add some flair, sprinkle crushed almonds, sea salt flakes, or shredded coconut on top before the chocolate sets. - Final Freezing: Return the muffin tin to the freezer for 30 more minutes. This ensures the cups are firm and ready to eat. - Serve and Enjoy: Once they are solid, peel away the muffin liners. Your homemade Chocolate Almond Butter Cups are ready for you to enjoy! Each bite is a tasty treat. - Avoid overheating: When melting chocolate, go slow. Heat it in short bursts. This keeps the chocolate smooth and glossy. If it gets too hot, it can burn. Burnt chocolate is not tasty. So, check it often. - Use a microwave-safe bowl: Choose a bowl that can handle heat. You want a bowl that won’t break or melt. Glass or ceramic works well. - Even distribution of chocolate and filling: Start with a thin layer of chocolate. This forms a nice base. Spread the almond butter filling evenly on top. Then, add more chocolate. Make sure it covers the filling. This way, every bite has a perfect mix of flavors. - Tips for peeling away muffin liners: Let the cups cool fully before removing them. This makes the chocolate set better. When you peel the liners, do it slowly. This helps keep the shape of each cup. If you find it hard, try running a knife around the edge. This can help release them easily. Pro Tips Use Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups largely depends on the quality of the chocolate you use. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your almond butter is at room temperature. This will make it easier to spread and mix, resulting in a smoother filling. Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or sweeteners in the filling. Peanut butter or cashew butter can provide a delightful twist! Storage Tips: Store your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for longer shelf life. Just let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying! {{image_4}} You can easily make vegan Chocolate Almond Butter Cups. Just swap dark chocolate chips for a dairy-free version. Many brands offer great options. Use maple syrup and almond butter as is. They fit well in a vegan diet. For gluten-free alternatives, check the labels on your chocolate chips and almond butter. Most brands are gluten-free. Using these simple swaps keeps the treat tasty and safe for everyone. To add a kick, try spices like cinnamon. A dash can enhance the chocolate flavor. You might also enjoy a hint of nutmeg or a pinch of sea salt for depth. You can also mix in different nut butters. Cashew or peanut butter can change the taste. Each option offers a unique twist. Experimenting lets you find your favorite combo! Serving these cups at parties? Arrange them on a colorful platter. Use mini muffin liners to add flair. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for a gourmet look. If you want to gift them, consider cute packaging. Use small boxes or bags. Tie a ribbon around each for a personal touch. This makes your treat feel extra special! To store your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and helps them stay firm. You can stack them, but separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. If you want a longer shelf life, freezing is a great option. Just place the cups in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps them tasty. These treats stay fresh in the fridge for about a week. If you freeze them, they can last for up to three months. Watch for signs of spoilage. If you see any white spots or off smells, it’s best to toss them. Always trust your senses when checking for freshness! You can make these cups vegan by using dairy-free chocolate chips. Look for brands that have no milk ingredients. For almond butter, most brands are vegan. Just check the label to be sure. You can also replace maple syrup with agave syrup for a plant-based sweetener. Yes! You can use peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. Each nut butter brings its own unique flavor. Peanut butter offers a classic taste, while cashew butter adds a creamy texture. Sunflower seed butter is great for nut-free options and has a mild flavor. The best way to melt chocolate is in a microwave. Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second bursts. Stir the chocolate after each interval. This keeps it from burning. You can also melt chocolate on the stove in a double boiler. Just make sure no water gets into the chocolate. Yes, Chocolate Almond Butter Cups can be healthy! Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and may improve heart health. Almond butter is high in protein and healthy fats. Each cup offers a good source of energy. However, be mindful of portion sizes, as they are still a treat. You now have a simple way to make delicious Chocolate Almond Butter Cups at home. We covered the main ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips to ensure success. You can customize these cups with toppings and variations that fit your taste. Always remember to store them right to keep them fresh. Enjoy making, sharing, and eating these treats. They’re tasty snacks for everyone!$

Delicious homemade chocolate cups filled with creamy almond butter.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 1

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup almond butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
pinch sea salt
1 mini muffin liners
to taste crushed almonds
to taste sea salt flakes
to taste shredded coconut

Instructions

Prepare the Muffin Tin: Line a mini muffin tin with mini muffin liners.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips. Heat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each interval until fully melted and smooth.
Create the Chocolate Base: Use a teaspoon to spoon approximately 1/2 tablespoon of the melted chocolate into each lined muffin cup.
Set the Base: Place the muffin tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate base to harden completely.
Prepare the Almond Butter Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the almond butter, maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt until smooth.
Add the Almond Butter Layer: Once the chocolate base has set, place approximately 1 teaspoon of the almond butter mixture on top of each chocolate layer.
Top with More Chocolate: Pour another layer of the melted chocolate over the almond butter filling in each cup, using about 1/2 tablespoon per cup.
Add Optional Toppings: Sprinkle some crushed almonds, sea salt flakes, or shredded coconut on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.
Final Freezing: Return the muffin tin to the freezer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cups are fully set.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the cups are solid, carefully peel away the muffin liners.

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings.

Keyword almond butter, chocolate, dessert, treat