Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sunflower Butter

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sunflower Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup sunflower butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips; Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Ideas

I love making these homemade Reese’s Cups with sunflower butter because they deliver that classic taste without any peanut allergies. Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy chocolate and rich sunflower butter that just melts in your mouth. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them as a sweet treat for yourself or presenting them at a gathering, these cups are sure to impress everyone. Join me in making this fun and delicious recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:32:36.997Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how well sunflower butter mimicked the texture and flavor of traditional peanut butter. By using high-quality chocolate and fresh ingredients, I managed to create a treat that’s rich and satisfying, yet safe for those with nut allergies. The balance of sweetness from the chocolate and the slight nuttiness from the sunflower butter makes this a standout.

One of my favorite tips is to chill the cups in the fridge before serving. This helps them hold their shape better and enhances the chocolate’s smoothness. The contrast between the cool, firm chocolate and the creamy filling is a delightful experience that I can’t get enough of. I hope you love these as much as I do!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy sunflower butter
Nut-free option perfect for those with allergies
Quick and easy to make at home

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The key to achieving that perfect creamy texture in your homemade Reese’s Cups lies in the quality of your sunflower butter. Look for a brand that has a smooth consistency, as this will ensure an even filling. Natural varieties often have a bit of separation, so be sure to stir them well before measurement. If you prefer a variation, using almond or cashew butter can provide a delicious twist while maintaining a nut-free option.

The type of chocolate you choose plays a significant role in the overall flavor of your cups. Dark chocolate chips bring a rich, slightly bitter taste that complements the sweet sunflower butter filling beautifully. If you want a sweeter flavor profile, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips. Just be cautious when melting—watch for a glossy finish, which indicates it's ready for use.

Mastering the Layering Technique

When it comes to layering your peanut butter cups, patience is vital. After pouring the melted dark chocolate into the cupcake liners, make sure to spread it evenly using the back of a spoon. Creating a thicker base, about 1/8 inch, will hold the filling better and prevent it from overflowing during the topping step. If you notice your chocolate isn't spreading well, it may be too thick; reheat it in 10-second intervals until manageable.

Remember to chill the chocolate base before adding the sunflower butter filling. This not only firms it up for easy layering but also prevents the filling from melting into the chocolate. If you find your filling is too runny, adding a little more powdered sugar can help set it better. Aim for a firm but creamy texture, which will hold up nicely once topped with milk chocolate.

Ingredients

For the Cups

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup sunflower butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Topping

1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
Sea salt for sprinkling

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring in between until smooth.

Prepare the Molds

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Use a spoon to scoop the melted chocolate into each liner, covering the bottom. Let it set in the fridge for about 10 minutes.

Mix Sunflower Butter Filling

In a separate bowl, mix the sunflower butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Add the Filling

Once the chocolate base has hardened, spoon some of the sunflower butter mixture onto the center of each chocolate base.

Top with Chocolate

Melt the milk chocolate chips and pour over the sunflower butter in each cup, smoothing out the tops. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.

Chill

Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes or until completely firm before serving.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try drizzling some melted chocolate on top before chilling to create a decorative finish.

Storing Your Homemade Cups

Once your homemade Reese’s Cups are completely firm, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks if properly sealed. If you plan to enjoy them later, consider freezing them instead. Just place the cups in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months; just allow them to thaw in the fridge before indulging.

A tip I like to share is to separate layers of cups with parchment paper when storing them in a container. This prevents them from sticking together and makes for an easier snack when you’re ready to enjoy them. Just grab a single cup without the hassle of pulling the whole batch apart!

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic flavor combination of chocolate and sunflower butter is hard to beat, there are plenty of creative variations you can experiment with. For instance, adding a sprinkle of crushed pretzels to the sunflower butter filling introduces an enjoyable crunch and contrast in texture. Alternatively, mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

You might also consider infusing flavors into the filling by adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of maple syrup. These small adjustments can elevate the taste profile significantly, giving your cups a unique character. Just make sure to re-evaluate your sugar levels if you add any extras to maintain balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nut or seed butters?

Yes! Almond butter or pumpkin seed butter would work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store these homemade cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely vegan treat.

→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar?

You can blend granulated sugar until it's a fine powder if you don't have powdered sugar on hand.