Easy & Healthy Homemade Chocolate Almond Butter Cups: Your New Favorite Vegan Treat
Prepare to fall in love with these incredibly simple, wholesome, and utterly delicious homemade chocolate almond butter cups! If you’re searching for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary preferences, you’ve just struck gold. Crafted with naturally gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients, these cups are a dream come true for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option. Forget store-bought candies; these almond butter cups offer a pure, rich flavor that will have you reaching for another, and another!
From Peanut Butter Obsession to Almond Butter Revelation
My vegan peanut butter cups are a perpetual hit, disappearing from the fridge almost as soon as I make them. The universal love for that recipe inspired me to create a similar version, this time highlighting the creamy goodness of almond butter. The result? These chocolate almond butter cups are every bit as delightful as their peanut butter counterparts, and dare I say, they might just be even better! For those who prefer the delicate, nutty flavor of almonds or need a peanut-free alternative, this recipe is a game-changer.
Even for someone who isn’t typically an avid almond butter enthusiast (like myself!), this recipe is a remarkable exception. The blend of rich chocolate, creamy almond butter, and a hint of sea salt creates a symphony of flavors that is truly addictive. It’s a sophisticated twist on a classic candy, offering a balance of salty and sweet that will satisfy any craving.
Simple Ingredients, Incredible Flavor
The beauty of these almond butter cups lies in their simplicity. You only need a handful of readily available, wholesome ingredients to create a truly gourmet treat. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor profile:
- Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips: Whether you opt for rich dark chocolate or classic semi-sweet, ensure they are dairy-free to keep this recipe vegan. The quality of your chocolate makes a big difference in the final taste.
- Coconut Oil: This magic ingredient helps the chocolate melt smoothly and harden beautifully, creating that satisfying snap when you bite into the cup. It also adds a subtle hint of tropical flavor.
- Creamy Almond Butter: The star of the show! Choose a good quality, natural creamy almond butter for the best results. Make sure it’s well-stirred if it has separated. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, you could experiment with crunchy almond butter for added texture.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the nutty flavor of almond butter and the richness of chocolate. It provides just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering.
- Coconut Flour: This is key for achieving the perfect consistency for your almond butter filling. It helps to bind the mixture and provides a slightly firmer texture, preventing the filling from being too gooey.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances all the other flavors, adding depth and warmth to both the chocolate and the almond butter layers.
- Sea Salt (fine and flaked): A pinch of fine sea salt in the almond butter mixture balances the sweetness. The true game-changer, however, is the generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top. This elevates the cups to a gourmet level, providing a delightful contrast of salty crunch against the smooth chocolate and creamy filling.
How to Make Almond Butter Cups: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delightful treats is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a detailed breakdown to ensure your almond butter cups turn out perfectly every time:
1. Prepare Your Chocolate Layer
Start by combining your chosen dairy-free chocolate chips with coconut oil in a medium-sized saucepan. While you could use a double boiler method for melting chocolate, a simpler approach is to use a saucepan over low to medium heat. The key is to watch it closely and stir frequently to prevent scorching. Once the chocolate and coconut oil have melted into a smooth, glossy mixture, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This infuses the chocolate with a lovely aromatic note.
2. Create the Base
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with parchment paper muffin liners. These are essential for easy removal of your finished cups. Carefully spoon about two teaspoons of the melted chocolate mixture into the bottom of each liner. Gently shake the muffin tin to ensure the chocolate spreads evenly and creates a flat, uniform base. Place the muffin tin into the freezer for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the chocolate to firm up completely. This initial hardening step is crucial for creating distinct layers.
3. Craft the Creamy Almond Butter Filling
While your chocolate bases are chilling, it’s time to prepare the delectable almond butter filling. In a separate bowl, combine the creamy almond butter, maple syrup, coconut flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Mix these ingredients thoroughly using a fork or even your hands. The mixture should come together into a slightly dry, pliable dough that doesn’t stick excessively to your hands. This consistency is ideal for shaping and ensures the filling holds its form within the chocolate shell.
4. Assemble the Cups
Once the chocolate bases are firm, remove the muffin tin from the freezer. Distribute the almond butter filling evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Use your fingertips or a small spoon to gently press the filling down, creating a flat, compact layer over the hardened chocolate. The goal is to make a smooth, even surface for the final chocolate topping.
5. Finish with Chocolate and Flaked Sea Salt
Pour the remaining melted chocolate mixture over the almond butter filling. Aim for about 1.5 to 2 teaspoons of chocolate per cup, ensuring the filling is completely covered. For an extra touch of gourmet flavor and texture, generously sprinkle flaked sea salt over the wet chocolate tops. This not only adds a beautiful visual element but also provides that irresistible salty-sweet contrast. Finally, return the muffin tin to the freezer for another 15 minutes, or until the chocolate topping is completely hardened and set.
The Magic of Flaked Sea Salt
I cannot emphasize enough the transformative power of flaked sea salt on these desserts. If you haven’t yet experienced the exquisite flavor pairing of salt and sweet, these almond butter cups are the perfect introduction. The delicate crunch and burst of salinity from the flaked salt cut through the richness of the chocolate and the sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a perfectly balanced bite. It truly elevates all the other flavors, turning a simple treat into an unforgettable culinary experience.
Why You’ll Love These Almond Butter Cups
Beyond their incredible taste, these nut butter cups boast several fantastic qualities:
- Naturally Vegan: Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, they are perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle.
- Gluten-Free: With no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients, they are safe and delicious for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Dairy-Free: Using dairy-free chocolate chips means no dairy products are involved, making them suitable for lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- Grain-Free: Another bonus for those avoiding grains, making them a great choice for paleo-friendly diets.
- No-Bake: No oven required! This recipe is perfect for hot days or when you want a quick, easy dessert without heating up your kitchen.
- Healthier Indulgence: Compared to many store-bought options, these homemade cups offer controlled sugar content and wholesome fats from almond butter, making them a smarter choice for a sweet treat.
I made a batch just two days ago, and already there’s only one left! These treats truly do not last long in my household, a testament to their irresistible appeal. Whether you’re making them for yourself, your family, or a gathering, be prepared for them to disappear quickly!
Tips & Variations for Your Almond Butter Cups
Want to customize your almond butter cups? Here are some ideas:
- Chocolate Choices: Experiment with different types of dairy-free chocolate. Dark chocolate will yield a richer, more intense flavor, while a vegan “milk” chocolate alternative could offer a creamier, sweeter profile.
- Nut Butter Swaps: While this recipe celebrates almond butter, feel free to try other nut or seed butters. Cashew butter creates a milder, buttery flavor, while sunflower seed butter is an excellent option for those with nut allergies, offering a slightly earthier taste.
- Sweetener Alternatives: If you don’t have maple syrup, agave nectar can be used as a direct substitute. For non-vegan options, honey could also work, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Add-Ins for Filling: Stir in some finely chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), shredded coconut, or a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the almond butter filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Decorative Toppings: Besides flaked sea salt, consider adding a sprinkle of cocoa nibs, chopped roasted almonds, or even some colorful vegan sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Mini Cups: For smaller, bite-sized treats, use mini muffin tins and adjust the ingredient amounts per cup accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Almond Butter Cups
How should I store almond butter cups?
To maintain their firm texture and prevent melting, store leftover almond butter cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
Can I make these without coconut oil?
Coconut oil is crucial for the chocolate to set properly and give it that satisfying snap. It’s difficult to replace it without altering the texture significantly. If you’re looking for an alternative, refined coconut oil has a neutral flavor, if the coconut taste is a concern.
My almond butter filling is too sticky/dry. What should I do?
The consistency of almond butter can vary. If your filling is too sticky, add a tiny bit more coconut flour, half a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable, non-sticky dough consistency. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a tiny dash more maple syrup or a few drops of melted coconut oil until it comes together.
Are these suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These almond butter cups are an excellent make-ahead dessert or snack. Prepare a batch on the weekend, store them in the fridge or freezer, and you’ll have healthy treats ready to grab throughout the week.
Are you making this recipe? I want to see! Be sure to tag your recipe photos on Instagram @buildyourbite and hashtag #buildyourbite! Your culinary creations inspire me.
More healthy no-bake desserts you’ll adore:
- Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
- Healthy Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Vegan Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel Bark
- Healthy No Bake Peanut Butter Truffles
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Almond Butter Cups Recipe:
Almond Butter Cups
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Ingredients
- 10 oz semi sweet dairy free chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup creamy almond butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 5 teaspoons coconut flour
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Flaked sea salt, for topping
Instructions
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Add chocolate chips and coconut oil to a medium sized sauce pan
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Turn heat on low or medium, and heat until melted, stirring frequently to avoid burning
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Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract
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Line a muffin tin with 12 parchment paper muffin cups
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Add 2 teaspoons of the chocolate mixture to the bottom of each muffin cup
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Once finished, shake the pan down to make sure chocolate lays flat in each cup
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Place muffin tin in freezer for 10 – 15 minutes, until chocolate hardens
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While chocolate is hardening, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, coconut flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Use a fork or your hands to combine (the mixture should be dry enough to not stick to your hands)
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Once chocolate hardens, distribute almond butter mixture evenly into each of the 12 tins, and use your hands to flatten it down
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Pour remaining chocolate over the tops, around 1 1/2 – 2 teaspoons per cup, until all of your chocolate is used up
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Sprinkle tops generously with flaked sea salt
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Place tin back in freezer for around 15 minutes, or until chocolate is hardened
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Store the almond butter cups in the fridge or freezer
Nutrition
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