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Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups take everything wonderful about a peanut butter cup and add a fluffy surprise at the center These no bake treats layer creamy peanut butter and sweet marshmallow cream inside a rich chocolate shell The result is a mouthwatering dessert with a perfect balance of crunchy smooth and gooey textures
I discovered this during a holiday treat swap and now they are the first to disappear every time My friends still request the recipe every year
Ingredients
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: choose good quality chips as the main chocolate flavor shines here
- Creamy peanut butter: a smooth classic peanut butter helps with blending and structure
- Powdered sugar: this brings the peanut butter filling to the right sweetness and consistency
- Unsalted butter: at room temperature softens easily for perfect blending
- Marshmallow cream: Jet Puffed brand works great or any thick marshmallow fluff
Step by Step Instructions
- Line Muffin Tins:
- Line a standard muffin tin with parchment or paper cupcake liners This keeps the cups from sticking and makes removal easy
- Melt Chocolate for Base:
- Place one cup of chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl Heat on high in thirty second bursts stirring well between each until the chocolate is just melted and glossy
- Form Bottom Layer:
- Scoop about half a tablespoon of melted chocolate into each liner Use two small spoons one to scoop and one to scrape Spread the chocolate out evenly over the bottom with the back of your spoon Place the tray in the freezer for ten minutes to set the chocolate layer
- Prepare Peanut Butter Filling:
- In a medium bowl beat together the peanut butter powdered sugar and butter using a hand mixer on medium speed Blend until the filling is smooth creamy and easily scoopable
- Add Peanut Butter Layer:
- Take the tray out of the freezer Drop one to two teaspoons of peanut butter filling right on top of the hardened chocolate base Gently flatten and smooth the layer with a spoon Tip do not spread it all the way out so the filling does not touch the cupcake liner This keeps a clean chocolate edge
- Add Marshmallow Cream:
- Dollop one teaspoon of marshmallow cream right in the center of the peanut butter Use a wet fingertip to smooth the fluff down a bit if needed Freeze again for another ten minutes
- Melt Chocolate for Top:
- While the cups chill melt the remaining cup of chocolate chips the same way you did in step two
- Seal Cups with Chocolate:
- Spoon another half tablespoon of melted chocolate over each cup Make sure to cover the peanut butter and marshmallow completely Push the chocolate gently to the edge for a tidy seal
- Final Chill:
- Freeze once more for ten minutes to fully set the chocolate
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Marshmallow cream is my favorite addition because it brings a chewy cloudlike contrast When I made this with my niece she giggled watching the marshmallow surprise appear with every bite
Storage Tips
Once fully set keep these treats in an airtight container in the fridge They stay fresh for up to one week If you want to keep them longer pop them in the freezer then thaw at room temperature for about ten minutes before eating This makes them perfect for prepping in advance for parties or holiday platters
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch the peanut butter for almond or sun butter for allergies Crunchy peanut butter gives extra texture if you like some bite For chocolate try milk or dark instead of semi sweet Just watch for the sweetness balance since marshmallow cream is quite sweet on its own
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Serving Suggestions
Serve straight from the fridge to keep their texture firm and satisfying For parties display on a platter with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder These mini cups also pair well with coffee or hot chocolate making them a lovely dessert for a cozy evening
Cultural Historical Context
Peanut butter cups are a beloved American treat with roots dating back to the 1920s Marshmallow swirls add a nostalgic touch reminiscent of classic fluffernutter sandwiches Combining both in a no bake dessert brings together generations of sweet snack traditions
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I easily melt chocolate chips?
Microwave chocolate chips in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until fully smooth and glossy.
- → What type of peanut butter is best to use?
Creamy peanut butter provides a smooth, luscious center that pairs well with both chocolate and marshmallow.
- → Can these cups be stored at room temperature?
For optimal texture and freshness, keep the cups refrigerated until serving to prevent melting.
- → Is it possible to use homemade marshmallow cream?
Homemade or store-bought marshmallow cream both work well, ensuring the center stays fluffy and sweet.
- → How long do the cups need to chill between layers?
Chill each layer for about 10 minutes to set the chocolate and filling before adding the next component.
- → Can I substitute dark chocolate for semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate adds a deeper, less sweet contrast that complements the filling beautifully.