Reese's Caramel Cream Cups

Name: Reese's Caramel Cream Cups
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings

I absolutely love indulging in these Reese's Caramel Cream Cups on special occasions! The combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth caramel is a delightful treat that brings back fond memories of childhood. Making these cups is surprisingly simple, and I enjoy layering the flavors to create a decadent dessert that everyone will rave about. Whether it's for a party or just a personal reward, these cups never fail to satisfy my sweet tooth and impress my friends. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:38:27.912Z

When I first experimented with making these Reese's Caramel Cream Cups, I was amazed at how well the flavors meld together. The creamy peanut butter fills are perfectly offset by a layer of rich caramel, all encased in smooth chocolate. I learned that tempering the chocolate properly makes a huge difference; it ensures a glossy finish and the perfect snap when you bite into them.

Over the years, I've adjusted the recipe to include a hint of sea salt on top, which takes the flavor profile to a whole new level. This touch of salt enhances the sweetness, making it even more irresistible. If you want to elevate your dessert game, I highly recommend giving this twist a try!

        Why You'll Love These Cups
        Deliciously rich peanut butter and caramel combination
Irresistibly creamy filling
Perfect dessert for any occasion

      

Mastering the Chocolate Shell

Creating a smooth chocolate shell is crucial to achieving the perfect Reese's Caramel Cream Cup. Melt the chocolate chips gradually, as overheating can cause them to seize. Aim for a glossy consistency before pouring. Using a silicone muffin tray allows for easy removal, so ensure that you coat the sides well to create a defined shell that holds its shape.

A good indicator that your chocolate is ready for the fridge is when it has a consistent, shiny surface, and doesn't feel tacky to the touch. Keep an eye on it during the cooling process, as the chocolate should set firmly without becoming overly hard, which might lead to cracking when you remove the cups.

Perfecting the Peanut Butter Filling

The filling is the heart of these cups, and the right balance of peanut butter and sweetness is key. Choose a creamy peanut butter that’s easy to mix; natural varieties may require stirring to combine the oils. Mixing in powdered sugar not only sweetens the filling but also helps to achieve a thicker, more stable texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth caramel on top.

If you're looking for a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute suitable for baking, like erythritol. Keep in mind that alternative sweeteners might slightly alter the consistency, so adjusting the amount of powdered sugar may be necessary to achieve the perfect filling texture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Reese's Caramel Cream Cups are set and removed from their molds, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, they also freeze well. Just ensure they are individually wrapped or placed in a single layer in an airtight container to minimize any freezer burn.

For serving, you can enhance the experience by garnishing with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or chopped nuts for added texture. These cups make delightful gifts or party favors, so consider presenting them in decorative boxes or bags for a personal touch at your next gathering.

Ingredients

For the cups

1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the chocolate shell

Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth. Use a silicone muffin tray to pour a thin layer of chocolate into each mold, ensuring the sides are well-coated. Place the tray in the refrigerator to set for about 15 minutes.

Make the filling

In a bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth. Spoon this mixture into each chocolate shell, filling them about 2/3 full.

Add the caramel layer

Drizzle caramel sauce over the peanut butter layer in each cup, filling it almost to the top. Gently smooth it out with a spoon.

Finish with chocolate

Reheat the remaining melted chocolate if needed and pour a final layer over the caramel until the molds are full. Place back in the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to set completely.

Serve

Once set, carefully remove the cups from the silicone tray. Enjoy your homemade Reese's Caramel Cream Cups!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top of the chocolate before it sets. This adds a nice crunch and enhances the flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate shell cracks when removing the cups, it may be due to overcooking the chocolate or not adequately coating the sides. To remedy this, ensure the chocolate is melted properly and cooled slightly before using, and give extra attention when coating the shell to avoid thin spots.

Should your filling be too runny after adding the ingredients, you can compensate by adding a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it up. Alternatively, chilling the mixture briefly can also help firm it before introducing it into the chocolate shells.

Variations to Try

Experimentation can lead to exciting variations on this classic treat. For instance, you might consider incorporating a layer of crushed pretzels between the peanut butter and caramel for a sweet-salty crunch. Another fun twist is to mix in bits of your favorite candy bars or chocolate chips into the peanut butter layer for an unexpected flavor burst.

If you're looking to cater to different tastes, you could substitute almond or cashew butter in place of peanut butter for a unique twist. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, as some nut butters may be less sweet than peanut butter.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable, whether you're looking to whip up a small batch for yourself or a larger batch for a party. To scale up, simply double or triple the amounts of each ingredient, but be mindful to melt the chocolate in batches to prevent it from hardening before use.

For smaller batches, using mini muffin trays can create bite-sized versions of the cups. Just remember to adjust the melting and setting times, as smaller sizes will cool and set more quickly. This also makes them perfect for sharing or including in dessert platters.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, feel free to use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste!

→ How long can I store these cups?

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

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and a vegan caramel alternative.

→ What can I substitute for peanut butter?

Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be great substitutes!