Protein Peanut Butter Cups (Easy Healthy Recipe)

This Protein Peanut Butter Cups Recipe is made with simple ingredients and mimic reese’s cups. They are made using whey protein powder, a chocolate layer, and PB Fit powder for the best peanut butter chocolate combo.

Alright, peanut butter lovers, it’s time to take your snack game to the next level with these Protein Peanut Butter Cups! 

You know those classic peanut butter cups we all love? Yeah, these are like their fitter, protein-packed cousin that’s here to satisfy your sweet tooth and fuel your gains. 

Best of all? They’re super easy to make and won’t leave you feeling like you need a nap afterward (I’m looking at you, sugar crashes!).

We’re talking about rich, dark chocolate, creamy peanut butter goodness, and a sneaky scoop of protein powder that makes these treats feel like dessert and a workout snack. 

Whether you need a quick pre-gym pick-me-up or you just want to treat yourself without the guilt, these protein-packed peanut butter cups have your back. Not to mention, contain 9 grams of protein per serving.

If you like homemade chocolate bars you may also like to try my Homemade Nestle Crunch Chocolate Bar Recipe or my Healthy Homemade Twix Bars Recipe (Vegan & Gluten Free).

WHAT ARE PROTEIN PEANUT BUTTER CUPS?

Protein peanut butter cups are a healthier version of the traditional peanut butter cups that we all know and love.

They are typically made with high-quality ingredients, such as natural peanut butter, protein powder, and dark chocolate, which provide a good balance of macronutrients and micronutrients.

The protein powder used in protein peanut butter cups can be whey, casein, plant-based, or a combination of different sources. The type of protein powder used will depend on personal preferences and dietary restrictions. 

Some protein powders contain added flavors, sweeteners, and other ingredients that may affect the taste and texture of the protein peanut butter cups.

 

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER CUPS

Protein peanut butter cups are a good source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional benefits of each ingredient:

PB Fit: This is a brand of peanut butter powder that has gained popularity in recent years. It’s lower in calories and fat, higher in protein, is shelf stable and very convenient to use.

Protein powder: Protein powder is a concentrated source of protein, which is essential for muscle building, repair, and recovery. Protein also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods, which can aid in weight management. 

The type of protein powder used will affect the nutritional value and taste of the protein peanut butter cups.

Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. It also contains iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are essential minerals for optimal health.

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED FOR THE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN CUPS

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make the healthy peanut butter cups (the exact measurements, nutritional information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post):

• PB Fit – this is not like your favorite peanut butter, these pb cups are made with a peanut butter powder that is lower in calories & fat and higher in protein.
• Peanut butter cookie protein powder by PEScience – could also use vanilla protein powder or chocolate protein powder but it may not yield the same results.
• Water
• Dark chocolate – can use dark chocolate chips. Alternatively, you can also use milk chocolate chips or semi sweet chocolate for a more realistic tasting pb cup. 
• Coconut oil
• Optional – coarse flakey sea salt, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond milk, etc.

 

DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO MAKE THE REESE’S PEANUT BUTTER CUPS

In a mixing bowl, combine the PB Fit, protein powder, and water. Mix well until a dough-like consistency is achieved.

In a separate microwave safe bowl, melt chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave or on the stovetop in a small saucepan. Stir well until a smooth mixture is achieved.

Line a muffin tin with paper muffin liners. Add a thin layer of chocolate to the bottom of the cupcake liners (approx 1 teaspoon). 

Scoop the peanut butter filling into each muffin cup, then pour a tablespoon of the melted chocolate mixture on top of the peanut butter layer.

Repeat until all muffin cups are filled.

Place the peanut butter protein cups in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to set.

Remove the paper liners from the protein peanut butter cups and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.

DIFFERENT VARIATIONS FOR THIS GREAT RECIPE

1. Dark Chocolate and Almond Butter Cups: Substitute almond butter for peanut butter and use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Almond butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats.
2. White Chocolate and Cashew Butter Cups: Use cashew butter instead of peanut butter and white chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Cashew butter has a creamy texture and is a good source of protein.
3. Chocolate and Hazelnut Butter Cups: Substitute hazelnut butter for crunchy peanut butter and use milk or dark chocolate. Hazelnut butter is a good source of protein and has a nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
4. Seed Butter Cups: Can use sunflower butter or a different seed butter for those with nut allergies.
5. Coconut Oil Peanut Butter Cups: Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to the peanut butter mixture for a creamier texture and a boost of healthy fats.
6. Sea Salt Peanut Butter Cups: Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt on top of the rich chocolate before it sets for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
7. Caramel Peanut Butter Cups: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the peanut butter before adding the chocolate for a sweet and decadent treat.
8. Banana and Peanut Butter Cups: Add thinly sliced bananas on top of the peanut butter before adding the chocolate for a fruity twist on the classic peanut butter cup.
9. Oatmeal and Peanut Butter Cups: Add a tablespoon of oats to the peanut butter mixture for a chewy texture and added fiber. Or alternatively, use a different kind of nut butter. 
10. Chia Seed Peanut Butter Cups: Add a teaspoon of chia seeds to the peanut butter mixture for a crunchy texture and extra protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
11. Mini Peanut Butter Cups: Using a mini muffin pan to make smaller bite sizes.

HOW TO STORE THE HOMEMADE PROTEIN PEANUT BUTTER CUPS

To keep your protein reese’s cup recipe fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will prevent the chocolate from melting and keep the peanut butter filling firm. 

They’ll stay fresh for up to a week—though, let’s be real, they probably won’t last that long!

For longer storage, you can also freeze them! Place the peanut butter cups in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. 

They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. 

When you’re ready for a treat, just let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature, or enjoy them straight from the freezer for an extra-chilled snack!

FAQS

HOW MUCH PROTEIN IS IN THESE DARK CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CUPS?

Each cup can pack around 9-12 g protein, depending on the brand of protein powder and peanut butter you use. It’s a great way to boost your protein intake while satisfying your sweet cravings!

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO MELT THE CHOCOLATE WITHOUT BURNING IT?

The safest way is to use a double boiler or melt your sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add coconut oil for a smooth and glossy finish!

CAN I MAKE THE HIGH PROTEIN PEANUT BUTTER CUPS DAIRY FREE?

Yes! Simply use dairy-free chocolate chips and make sure your protein powder doesn’t contain dairy. There are plenty of great dairy-free protein powders out there that will still give you the same high-protein snack.

HOW CAN I REDUCE THE FAT IN THESE HEALTHIER PEANUT BUTTER CUPS?

By using PB Fit or another powdered peanut butter, you already reduce the g fat compared to traditional peanut butter. You can also opt for dark chocolate peanut butter cups using sugar-free dark chocolate to cut down on overall calories.

Other Chocolate Recipes You May Like To Try

• Starbucks Chocolate Cake Pops Copycat Recipe
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
• Chocolate Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter
• Baked Chocolate Glazed Donuts
• The Best Chocolate Pecan Caramel Turtles
• Vegan Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chocolate Protein Ice Cream
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Baked Oatmeal
• High Protein Chocolate Mousse With Cottage Cheese
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
• 2-Ingredient Chocolate Protein Pudding
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Protein Ice Cream
• Healthy Protein Chocolate Covered Cookie Dough Bites
• Gluten Free Double Chocolate Muffins

IF YOU TRIED THIS NO BAKE TREAT PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT IN THE COMMENT SECTION AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS HEALTHY SNACK ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails