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

Highlighted under: Golden Kitchen

I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Butter Cups at home! They combine rich chocolate with creamy almond butter, creating a treat that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and salty, making it hard to stop at just one. These cups are incredibly simple to create, and you can customize them with various toppings for a unique twist. Whether I'm treating myself or sharing them with friends, these homemade delights are always a hit!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:42:34.795Z

When I first attempted to make these Chocolate Almond Butter Cups, I was surprised by how easy they were! I used high-quality chocolate to ensure a luscious coating and found that a pinch of sea salt on top really enhances the flavor. The combination of homemade almond butter adds a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate.

One crucial tip I learned during my trial runs is to let the chocolate cool slightly before pouring it into the cups. This technique ensures that the almond butter layer remains intact without melting into the chocolate. It's little details like this that elevate the final product and keep friends and family coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy almond butter
Perfect blend of sweet and salty for an indulgent treat
Customizable with your favorite toppings or variations

Understanding Your Ingredients

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the dark chocolate chips. Choosing high-quality chocolate will elevate the flavor of your cups significantly. Aim for a chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content, as this will ensure a rich, deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the nutty almond butter. If dark chocolate isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with semi-sweet chocolate, but be mindful that it will add additional sweetness to the overall treat.

Almond butter plays a crucial role in creating the creamy filling that balances the chocolate. Opt for natural almond butter that contains just almonds and salt for the best flavor and texture. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter can work as a great substitute. Keep in mind that each variety has its unique taste, so feel free to get creative according to your preference.

Perfecting the Assembly

When lining the muffin tin, be sure to use quality cupcake liners that won’t stick to the chocolate. Silicone liners can be particularly effective, as they allow for easy removal. After pouring the melted chocolate into each liner, gently tap the tray on your countertop to eliminate any air bubbles and ensure an even layer. The initial chill in the freezer is essential for setting the base, so do let them freeze for at least 10 minutes before adding the filling.

As you spoon the almond butter mixture into the chocolate cups, remember to leave space for covering them with chocolate again. A helpful tip I use is to use a small cookie scoop for consistent filling sizes. This way, every cup will have a similar proportion of chocolate to nut butter, ensuring a balanced treat with each bite.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Almond Butter Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, they also freeze well. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, you can let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before savoring, as this will bring out their creamy texture.

For a fun twist, consider topping the cups with crushed sea salt, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel before serving. You can also make mini versions by using a mini muffin tin, which is perfect for portion control or serving at gatherings. Just remember to adjust the freezing time based on the size of your cups—smaller ones may set more quickly!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Prepare the Cups

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a spoonful of melted chocolate into each liner, ensuring the bottom is fully covered. Place the tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the almond butter with honey and sea salt until well combined. Remove the muffin tin from the freezer.

Assemble the Cups

Spoon a dollop of the almond butter mixture into each chocolate-lined cup. Then, pour more melted chocolate on top to cover the filling completely.

Chill and Serve

Return the muffin tin to the freezer and let the cups set for an additional 15 minutes. Once hardened, remove the cups from the liners and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed nuts or sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. You can also experiment with different nut butters or add a hint of vanilla to the filling for added flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate seizes while melting, don’t panic! This can happen if any moisture comes into contact with it. To fix this, try adding a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to the chocolate while it’s still warm. This will help restore its smooth texture, making it easier to work with when assembling your cups.

Another common issue is the almond butter mixture being too thick to spoon easily. If you find this happening, gently warm the mixture in the microwave for a few seconds. Just make sure not to overheat it, as it can change the consistency drastically. The filling should be smooth enough to spoon but not runny.

Healthier Variations

For those looking to make a healthier version of these cups, consider using dark chocolate with 80% cacao or higher. It's lower in sugar and packed with antioxidants. You can also replace honey or maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or stevia if you're watching your sugar intake. Just be cautious with the quantities, as these sweeteners can be more potent than traditional sugars.

You can get innovative with flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the almond butter mixture. This will not only enhance the taste but also add a unique aromatic experience to your Chocolate Almond Butter Cups. Adding lemon zest can introduce a refreshing twist, creating a delightful contrast with the rich chocolate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a sweeter taste, but be sure to adjust the sweetness of the almond butter mixture to your liking.

→ How long will these cups last?

These Chocolate Almond Butter Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these nut-free?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with sun butter or any other nut-free spread.

→ What can I do if the chocolate isn’t melting smoothly?

It could be that the bowl is too hot or the chocolate is being microwaved for too long. Try lowering the power of your microwave and melting for shorter intervals.