These little low carb chocolate peanut butter cups are the sort of treat that disappears fast at a party table, and for good reason. With just three simple ingredients and no baking at all, they come together in a snap but still feel like an old-fashioned homemade candy, the kind you’d expect to find tucked onto a dessert tray at Halloween, Christmas, or a church supper here in the Midwest. They’re rich, creamy, and satisfying, with that classic chocolate-and-peanut-butter pairing that never seems to go out of style.
Serve these straight from the refrigerator on a small dessert plate, or set them out on a tray with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a bowl of salted mixed nuts for a nice contrast. They also pair well with coffee after supper, and if you’re putting together a holiday sweets table, they fit right in alongside spiced nuts, sugar-free cookies, and a good hot cup of cocoa for the youngsters.
Low Carb 3-Ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Servings: 12 peanut butter cups
Ingredients
1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
Directions
1. Line a 12-cup mini muffin tin or a flat tray with 12 small paper candy liners so the cups are ready to fill.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sugar-free dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in short 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted and glossy.
3. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, just enough to coat the base. Chill for 10 minutes, or until the chocolate is just set.
4. Drop about 1 teaspoon of peanut butter into the center of each cup, keeping it away from the edges as much as you can.
5. Cover the peanut butter with the remaining melted chocolate, smoothing the tops lightly with the back of a spoon. Chill again for 20 to 30 minutes, until firm.
6. Once fully chilled, serve cold or store in the refrigerator until ready to eat.
Variations & Tips
Almond Butter Version: Swap the peanut butter for unsweetened almond butter if you’d like a slightly milder, nuttier flavor. It makes a lovely variation for folks who enjoy a softer nut taste.
Extra Firm Centers: If your peanut butter is especially loose or oily, stir it very well first and chill it for a few minutes before filling the cups. That helps keep the center thick and tidy.
Freezer Shortcut: You can speed up the setting time by placing the cups in the freezer for 5 to 10 minutes between layers instead of using the refrigerator. Just don’t forget them in there too long, or the chocolate can lose some of its shine.
Easy Cleanup Tip: A small cookie scoop or measuring spoon makes neater portions and helps keep the cups close in size, which is especially handy if you’re making these for a party tray or holiday gathering.
