If you're a fan of the classic chocolate and peanut butter combo, you're going to fall head over heels for these Chocolate Almond Butter Cups. They're a delightful twist on a beloved treat, offering a rich and nutty alternative thatβs perfect for an indulgent snack or a homemade gift.
Dark chocolate chips provide the rich, bittersweet base that perfectly complements the nutty almond butter. Choose a good quality brand for the best flavor. Coconut oil is added to the chocolate to help it melt smoothly and set with a perfect sheen. Almond butter is the star here, offering a creamy, nutty filling thatβs slightly less intense than peanut butter. Powdered sugar sweetens the almond butter without adding graininess, while vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with a touch of warmth. Finally, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty notes.
These Chocolate Almond Butter Cups are delightful as an afternoon pick-me-up or a sweet finish to a meal. For a more elegant presentation, serve them on a pretty platter with a sprinkling of sea salt or a dusting of cocoa powder. They pair wonderfully with a glass of cold almond milk or a hot cup of herbal tea.
Start by grabbing a microwave-safe bowl and toss in your dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Pop it in the microwave, giving it a good stir every 30 seconds until you have a silky, smooth chocolate mixture. This step is crucial for that luscious coating weβre aiming for.
Next, line a muffin tin with paper liners β this helps with easy removal later on. Spoon a thin layer of the melted chocolate into each liner, making sure to nudge it up the sides just a bit. This forms the delectable shell of your almond butter cup. Once done, slide the pan into the freezer for about 10 minutes to let the chocolate set.
While the chocolate is chilling, mix up your filling. In another bowl, blend almond butter, powdered sugar, a dash of vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of salt until smooth. The goal is a creamy, slightly sweetened almond butter mixture.
Retrieve your chocolate-lined cups from the freezer and drop a spoonful of the almond butter mixture into each one. Use the back of your spoon to smooth the tops, making sure the filling is nice and even.
Finally, cover the almond butter with another layer of your melted chocolate. Be generous, ensuring it reaches the edges of the paper liner to seal everything in. Back into the freezer they go for another 20 minutes or until firm.
When youβre ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This makes them easier to bite into and maximizes their creamy center.