Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dates

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup pitted Medjool dates; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

I absolutely love making these Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dates. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, and crafting them from scratch feels so rewarding! Instead of using refined sugar, I opt for natural sweetness from dates, making them a healthier treat. Moreover, the combination of rich peanut butter and the creamy texture is irresistible. As a bonus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for spontaneous cravings or when you have guests over. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never want store-bought again!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:14:35.644Z

When I first created this recipe, I was looking for a guilt-free way to satisfy my sweet tooth. I experimented by substituting traditional sugar with dates, which not only added flavor but also made the cups healthier. The response from family and friends was overwhelmingly positive!

Using a silicone mold helps achieve the perfect form for these cups. I prefer a dark chocolate coating as it pairs beautifully with the nutty peanut butter and sweet dates. It's a fun project that not only tastes amazing but also makes for a great homemade gift!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Natural sweetness from dates provides a healthier alternative to sugar
Creamy peanut butter center offers a delightful contrast to the chocolate
Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for homemade gifts

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient of this recipe is creamy peanut butter, which adds not only flavor but also a velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate coating. When selecting your peanut butter, opt for a variety without added sugars or oils to retain the natural peanut flavor. The quality of the chocolate chips also plays a critical role in the final taste, so choose high-quality dark chocolate for a robust finish. Aim for chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa for the best balance of sweetness and richness.

Medjool dates are used as a natural sweetener in this recipe, and their sticky, caramel-like consistency is essential for binding the peanut butter mixture. If you find Medjool dates unavailable, you can substitute them with other soft date varieties, but you may need to adjust the quantity to achieve the same sweetness. A common pitfall is using dried dates, which are too tough to blend smoothly; always ensure your dates are fresh and pitted for optimal results.

Key Techniques for Success

When preparing the date mixture, it's important to blend until you achieve a smooth, sticky paste. If your food processor struggles, add a teaspoon of warm water to help facilitate blending. It’s crucial to thoroughly combine the date paste with the peanut butter, as this creates a consistent filling that will hold together well when the cups are assembled. Don’t rush this step; take your time to ensure the flavors meld seamlessly.

Melting the chocolate requires patience. Utilize low heat to prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning, which can happen quickly. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes glossy and smooth. If the chocolate thickens too much while cooling, you can add a few drops of coconut oil to loosen it back up. In the assembling phase, make sure you layer the chocolate, peanut butter, and more chocolate well, ensuring a good seal to keep the filling intact once set.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Cups with Dates Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup pitted Medjool dates
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

These ingredients create the perfect blend of flavors and textures!

Instructions

Prepare the Date Mixture

In a food processor, blend the pitted dates until they form a sticky paste. Set aside.

Mix the Peanut Butter

In a bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and sea salt until smooth. Stir in the date paste until well mixed.

Melt the Chocolate

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil, stirring continuously to avoid burning.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a spoonful of melted chocolate into each liner, followed by a dollop of the peanut butter mixture, and top with more chocolate to cover.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for about 15 minutes, until set. Enjoy your delicious Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Dates!

These treats are best stored in the fridge for optimal freshness!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different nut butters or add a pinch of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These peanut butter cups can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect treat for busy weeks or planned gatherings. Simply prepare and assemble the cups, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them. Flash freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours. Avoid microwaving them directly from the freezer, as this can cause the chocolate to bloom and lose its glossy appearance. If you find yourself with leftovers, I recommend enjoying these chilled for a firmer texture. They are great as a post-meal treat or a boost of energy before workouts.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture for an extra depth of flavor. For a sea salt finish, sprinkle a tiny bit over the chocolate layer before refrigerating. You can also substitute crunchy peanut butter for a delightful texture contrast, or use almond or cashew butter for a different nutty experience altogether.

For serving, these homemade peanut butter cups are fantastic as a dessert at gatherings or a sweet energy snack between meals. Pair them with fresh fruit or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also cut them into smaller squares for bite-sized delights, making them fun to share at parties or events.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture!

→ How long do these peanut butter cups last?

They can last up to 2 weeks when stored in the fridge.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Ensure you use vegan dark chocolate and no added dairy in the ingredients.

→ What can I substitute for coconut oil?

You can use any neutral oil or even butter for a different flavor.