Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sea Salt

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sea Salt
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips; 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Sea salt, for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Cozy Cooking

I love making these Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sea Salt because they satisfy my sweet tooth like nothing else! There's something incredibly rewarding about creating a treat that usually comes from a store, but with a personal touch. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and a sprinkle of sea salt elevates the flavor to a whole new level. Plus, they are so easy to whip up in just a short amount of time, making them a perfect option for a last-minute indulgence or a special occasion!

Created by

Isla Weatherford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:17:34.375Z

When I first attempted to make these Homemade Reese’s Cups, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the process was. I thought I needed gadgets and complex techniques, but a pot, a bowl, and a few basic ingredients were all I required. Each step felt like a fun experiment, especially when dipping them in chocolate!

One important tip I learned is to use a good quality chocolate for the coating. It makes a significant difference in taste. Also, the sea salt’s crunch adds an unexpected delight, so don’t skip that step! Trust me, it brings everything together beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe!
        Decadent layers of chocolate and peanut butter made from scratch
The perfect balance of sweet and salty with a sprinkle of sea salt
Fun to make and share with friends or family

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Layers

When melting chocolate for your Reese’s Cups, it’s crucial to do so in short bursts. This helps prevent the chocolate from seizing, which can happen if it overheats. For the best results, microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring vigorously between each, until it reaches a silky smooth texture. The end product should be glossy and pourable. Remember to use a microwave-safe bowl to withstand the heat without cracking.

Using a combination of milk and semisweet chocolate creates a balanced flavor profile. The milk chocolate provides sweetness, while the semisweet chocolate adds depth. If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, you can adjust the ratio or replace some of the milk chocolate with dark chocolate chips. Keep in mind that using different types of chocolate may alter the overall sweetness, so taste as you go.

Crafting the Peanut Butter Filling

The peanut butter filling is the heart of these cups, and choosing the right type of peanut butter is vital. For a smooth and creamy texture, stick to creamy varieties without added sugars or oils. Natural peanut butter can also work but may require additional powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency. A little extra vanilla extract can enhance the flavor, making your peanut butter filling even more indulgent.

When mixing the filling, ensure it’s smooth and well combined—this ensures every bite is deliciously uniform. If you find your mixture too thick to scoop easily, try warming it slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This makes it much easier to handle when adding it to the chocolate layers.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Homemade Reese’s Cups:

For the Cups

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sea Salt:

Prepare the Cupcake Liners

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to get started. This will make it easy to remove the cups once they’ve set.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk and semisweet chocolate chips. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.

Coat the Bottom

Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each cupcake liner, making sure to cover the bottom completely. Place the tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set.

Mix the Peanut Butter Filling

In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the chocolate base is set, scoop a dollop of this mixture onto each chocolate layer.

Top with More Chocolate

Pour the remaining melted chocolate over each peanut butter scoop, ensuring it's fully covered, and smooth the tops. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on each before placing them back in the freezer to set for an additional 10 minutes.

Once set, remove the cups from the muffin tin and enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures!

Pro Tips

Try using dark chocolate for a richer flavor or add chopped nuts to the peanut butter mix for extra crunch!

Tips for Storage and Freezing

These Homemade Reese’s Cups can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, if you want to keep them for longer, refrigeration is a better option. Just ensure they are tightly sealed to prevent the chocolate from blooming and losing its glossy finish. They can also be frozen for up to three months; simply separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

When ready to enjoy frozen cups, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This slight warming will enhance their flavor and texture, making them more enjoyable to bite into. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds for a quick thaw.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Reese’s Cups are delicious on their own, but you can elevate their presentation by serving them on a platter alongside fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed pretzels for a delightful crunch and extra saltiness. They can also be sliced into smaller pieces for sharing—making them perfect for parties or gatherings.

If you’d like to switch things up, try adding different fillings such as Nutella or almond butter. You can also sprinkle in some crushed nuts or toffee bits on top of the peanut butter layer before adding the final chocolate topping. This creates exciting variations and makes each bite a unique surprise!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture, but the cups may not hold together as well.

→ How long can I store these Reese’s Cups?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze these cups?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

→ What if I don't have muffin liners?

You can use silicone muffin molds or even a greased muffin tin, but liners help with easy removal.