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; 1/2 cup sunflower butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Soft Cooking

I absolutely love making my own treats at home, and these Homemade Reese's Cups with Sunflower Butter are a perfect indulgence. Not only are they incredibly simple to prepare, but they also allow me to enjoy a classic flavor without the allergies that come with traditional peanut butter. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy sunflower butter creates a delightful balance that satisfies any sweet tooth. Plus, I can customize them to my liking, making them a fun project any day of the week!

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:49:35.453Z

When I first set out to create these Homemade Reese's Cups, I wanted to find an alternative that could cater to my nut allergies. Using sunflower butter was a game changer for me. It has a smooth consistency similar to peanut butter, but with a unique taste that pairs perfectly with chocolate.

After several attempts, I discovered that melting the chocolate slowly and pouring it in layers gives the cups a professional look. The key is to let each layer set before adding the next. This method ensures a beautiful, rich chocolate coating that holds everything together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sunflower butter creates a nut-free alternative
Rich chocolate coating that is irresistibly delicious
Easily customizable sweetness for every taste

Understanding Your Ingredients

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The dark chocolate not only forms a delectable outer shell but also provides an indulgent richness that balances the sweet filling. Choose high-quality chocolate chips, ideally around 60-70% cocoa content, for a more intense chocolate flavor. This bitterness complements the sweetness of the sunflower butter and powdered sugar beautifully.

Using sunflower butter is a fantastic nut-free option that does not compromise texture. Its creamy consistency mimics that of traditional peanut butter while adding a unique, slightly sweet flavor. If sunflower butter is not available, you can substitute with any nut or seed butter of your choice, but keep in mind that flavors may vary little from what you expect. Using a creamy rather than chunky butter will yield the best results.

Perfecting the Melting Technique

Melting chocolate properly is essential to create a smooth coating for your cups. I recommend using a microwave in 30-second intervals to prevent overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. When it is about two-thirds melted, give it a good stir; the residual heat will continue to melt the remaining chips, making it perfectly glossy. Look for a smooth consistency that flows easily when poured into the molds.

Another option is to use a double boiler, which can help regulate temperature better. If you opt for this method, keep the water simmering gently. Avoid letting any steam or water get into your chocolate, as this can lead to graininess. If you find the chocolate has thickened, you can add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to restore its fluidity.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you begin.

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup sunflower butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured out for ease!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Homemade Reese’s Cups.

Melt the Chocolate

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

Prepare the Molds

Line a muffin tray with cupcake liners. Pour a tablespoon of melted chocolate into each liner, swirling it around to coat the sides.

Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together the sunflower butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Once the chocolate base has set, place a spoonful of the sunflower butter mixture on top of the chocolate. Press it down gently.

Finish with Chocolate

Top each cup with another tablespoon of melted chocolate, ensuring the filling is completely covered. Tap the tray to remove air bubbles.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 15 minutes or until set. Enjoy your homemade treats!

Enjoy your delicious Homemade Reese’s Cups as a sweet treat or share them with friends!

Pro Tips

Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet and salty twist!

Chilling and Set Time

After assembling your cups, chilling them is crucial to ensure they hold their shape. I suggest refrigerating them for at least 15-20 minutes to achieve the perfect firmness. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the freezer for about 10 minutes. However, keep an eye on them to avoid freezing completely, which could lead to a harder texture that's less enjoyable.

Once set, the chocolate coating should have a slight snap when bitten into. If your cups are not setting properly, it may be due to incomplete melting of the chocolate or variations in your fridge temperature. To remedy this, ensure your refrigerator is at the appropriate cooling level, generally around 35°F (1.6°C).

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Homemade Reese’s Cups can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, I prefer to keep them in the refrigerator as it helps maintain their texture and flavor. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for optimal enjoyment, as this will enhance their creamy filling.

For a fun twist, consider adding fillings like shredded coconut, crushed pretzels, or mini marshmallows to the sunflower butter mixture. This custom approach can cater to various tastes and make your homemade treats feel festive. Additionally, experiment with the chocolate coating by using white or milk chocolate if you want a sweeter profile, keeping the base recipe intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but keep in mind it will increase the sweetness.

→ How long do these cups last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the sunflower butter?

You can, but be aware that using other nut butters may not be safe for those with nut allergies.

→ Is there a vegan version for this recipe?

Yes! Ensure you use vegan chocolate chips and follow the recipe as is.