Crunchy Pretzel Peanut Cups (Printable)

Sweet and salty delight featuring crunchy pretzels, creamy peanut butter, and smooth chocolate.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pretzel Base

01 - 1 cup mini salted pretzels, crushed (about 2 ounces)
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Peanut Butter Filling

03 - 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (6 ounces)
04 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar (1 ounce)
05 - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - Pinch of salt

→ Chocolate Topping

07 - 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (7.5 ounces)
08 - 1 tablespoon coconut oil or unsalted butter

# Directions:

01 - Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners and set aside.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels with melted butter until evenly coated. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin cup and press firmly to establish an even, compact base.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined. Distribute approximately 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture onto the pretzel base in each cup and gently spread to cover.
04 - In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely smooth and fluid.
05 - Spoon melted chocolate over the peanut butter layers in each cup, using the back of the spoon to create level, uniform tops.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate and filling are completely firm to the touch.
07 - Remove the cups from paper liners and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect sweet-salty balance: The salty pretzel base plays beautifully against the sweet chocolate and creamy peanut butter filling.
  • No baking required: With only 5 minutes of cooking time (melting chocolate), this is a true no-bake dessert.
  • Easy and approachable: Rated easy in difficulty, these cups are perfect for beginner home cooks and experienced bakers alike.
  • Make-ahead friendly: They chill in the fridge and keep well in an airtight container, making them ideal for prepping in advance.
  • Customizable: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor, milk chocolate for extra sweetness, or gluten-free pretzels to accommodate dietary needs.
  • Yields 12 generous cups: Great for sharing at parties, gifting, or keeping on hand for a week of sweet cravings.
02 -
  • Press the pretzel base firmly: Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a small glass to compact the pretzel crumbs tightly so the base holds together when removed from the liner.
  • Room temperature peanut butter spreads best: If your peanut butter is cold or stiff, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before mixing with the powdered sugar.
  • Add coconut oil to the chocolate: The tablespoon of coconut oil (or butter) helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives the topping a glossy, professional finish.
  • Top with crushed pretzels before chilling: For extra crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle a few crushed pretzel pieces on top of the chocolate immediately after spooning it on—before it sets.
  • Chill fully before removing liners: Make sure the cups are completely firm (at least 30 minutes) before peeling away the paper liners to avoid breaking the base.
  • Store refrigerated: Keep the finished cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best texture and freshness.
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