Homemade Reese’s Cups Vegan Style

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups Vegan Style
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup vegan chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always loved the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter paired with smooth chocolate, and making my own vegan version of Reese’s Cups was both a fun and satisfying adventure. With just a few simple ingredients, I was able to recreate the classic taste without any animal products. This recipe not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also allows me to indulge guilt-free, knowing that I made it all from scratch. It’s become a go-to treat in my household, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:10:07.790Z

When I first attempted to make vegan Reese’s Cups at home, I was skeptical about whether they could truly capture the original's essence. To my delight, I found that using high-quality dark chocolate combined with natural peanut butter created a delicious filling that rivaled the traditional version. The key is to balance the sweetness and the sea salt for that perfect flavor contrast.

After several trials, I learned that letting the chocolate cool slightly before layering it on the peanut butter makes a significant difference. This way, the layers adhere beautifully without melting into one another. Now, these cups are a staple at all my gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh peanut butter
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet indulgence

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting high-quality vegan chocolate chips is crucial for achieving the rich flavor profile reminiscent of traditional Reese’s Cups. Look for brands that offer a deep cocoa flavor without excessive sweetness. The coconut oil plays a dual role, enhancing the chocolate's smooth texture while helping it to set properly. If you're missing coconut oil, grapeseed oil can be a substitute, but the flavor and texture may slightly vary.

When it comes to the peanut butter, opt for natural varieties without added sugar or hydrogenated oils. This will help maintain the authentic nutty flavor while ensuring a creamy filling. If you prefer, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be excellent alternatives for a nut-free option. Just be aware that these substitutions will alter the overall flavor profile, but they can be just as delicious.

Mastering the Assembly Process

The key to perfecting your vegan Reese’s Cups lies in the assembly process. When pouring the chocolate into the muffin tray, ensure you coat the bottom evenly; you want approximately 1/8 inch in height for a balanced cup. If the chocolate is too thin, it may break easily once set. When spreading the peanut butter filling, keep it centered to prevent overflow when you add the top layer of chocolate.

Patience is essential during the setting phase. If you try to cut into the cups too soon, the chocolate may not be firm enough, resulting in a messy treat. Allow them to cool in the fridge until they are completely hardened, approximately 20-25 minutes total. The end result should have a satisfying snap when bitten into, with a creamy interior that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate exterior.

Ingredients

For the Cups

1 cup vegan chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Filling

1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the vegan chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Prepare the Cups

Using a silicone muffin tray, pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each cup, just enough to cover the bottom. Place the tray into the fridge for about 10 minutes to set.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and sea salt until well combined. Remove the chocolate cups from the fridge.

Add the Filling

Spoon a generous portion of the peanut butter mixture over the set chocolate. Spread it evenly and leave some space for the top layer of chocolate.

Top with Chocolate

Pour more melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter layer, ensuring it’s completely covered. Return to the fridge for another 10-15 minutes to set.

Serve and Enjoy

Once fully set, gently pop the vegan Reese’s Cups out of the tray. Enjoy your homemade treat immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of crushed sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.

Storage Tips

Once your vegan Reese’s Cups are set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you're making a large batch, consider separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will last for up to three months. Just be sure to let them thaw in the fridge for a couple of hours before enjoying.

If you notice that your cups become too melty during storage, it could be due to the temperature of your fridge or warm ingredients. Always let everything cool to room temperature before refrigeration, and ensure your fridge is set to around 35°F to keep them firm yet enjoyable.

Variations to Try

To elevate your vegan Reese’s Cups, consider adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before the final chocolate layer sets. This touch of salt enhances the sweet and nutty flavors and adds a gourmet twist. You can also introduce a layer of crushed vegan cookies or a swirl of vegan caramel for added texture and flavor complexity.

For a different flavor experience, try incorporating flavored extracts in the peanut butter filling, such as vanilla or almond extract, to give your cups a unique twist. You can even experiment with adding a bit of cocoa powder to the filling for a richer taste. These alterations will give you the freedom to create a variety of vegan treats that suit your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter works beautifully as a substitute and adds a unique flavor.

→ How should I store these cups?

Store your Reese's Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze these cups?

Yes! They freeze well for up to three months. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container.

→ What type of chocolate should I use?

Use high-quality vegan chocolate chips for the best flavor. You can also use dark chocolate for a richer taste.