Homemade Reese’s Cups with Cashew Butter

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 cup cashew butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen

I absolutely adore making my own candy, and these Homemade Reese’s Cups with Cashew Butter are always a hit! There's something so satisfying about crafting a delicious treat from scratch. The smooth cashew butter adds a unique twist to the classic recipe, and making them at home allows me to control the sweetness and ingredients. When I bite into one, I’m always amazed at how easy it is to recreate that beloved flavor right in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try making these, you’ll want them on hand all the time!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:37:35.101Z

Every time I make these Homemade Reese’s Cups with Cashew Butter, I’m reminded of my childhood and the excitement of unwrapping a chocolate treat. I experimented with different nut butters to find the perfect complement for the rich chocolate, and cashew butter is my clear favorite! It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and adds a depth of flavor that traditional peanut butter simply can't match.

One tip that I've found essential in this recipe is to let the chocolate harden completely before serving. It might be tempting to dive in right away, but letting them set ensures the best texture. Plus, if you have patience, you’ll be rewarded with a treat that has a perfect snap when you bite into it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate coating over creamy cashew butter
A healthier alternative to store-bought candies
Customization options for different nut butters and mix-ins

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of chocolate is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Dark chocolate chips not only lend a deep, intense flavor but also balance the natural sweetness of the cashew butter. Opt for high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for a robust taste. Mixing in a bit of coconut oil during the melting process helps to achieve a silky texture that sets beautifully without becoming too hard. This combo creates a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Cashew butter plays a central role in this recipe, providing both creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor. If you're in a pinch, feel free to swap the cashew butter for peanut or almond butter; just be aware that it will slightly alter the overall taste. Additionally, using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar in the filling ensures a smooth texture, which is essential for the melt-in-your-mouth experience you want from these homemade treats.

Tempering and Setting Chocolate

Achieving the right texture for your chocolate coating involves careful melting. Using a double boiler setup—where you place a heatproof bowl over simmering water—helps prevent scorching, ensuring that the chocolate becomes glossy and fluid. Avoid overheating; you want it just melted but still thick enough to coat the cups without running off. If you notice the chocolate thickening too quickly, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to regain that smooth consistency.

Once you pour the melted chocolate into the molds, it’s crucial to let it set completely. A quick trip to the freezer for about 10 minutes solidifies the chocolate base, providing a sturdy foundation for the cashew filling. If your chocolate seems too soft after setting, it may not have been melted properly. It should snap easily when bitten into, making it all the more satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious homemade treats:

For the Chocolate Coating

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Cashew Filling

1/2 cup cashew butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Homemade Reese’s Cups:

Prepare the Chocolate

Melt the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth.

Mold the Chocolate Cups

Using a cupcake liner or mini muffin tin, pour a small amount of the melted chocolate into each cup. Tilt the cup to coat the sides evenly and place it in the freezer to set for 10 minutes.

Make the Cashew Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine cashew butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Remove the cups from the freezer.

Fill the Cups

Spoon a dollop of the cashew filling into each chocolate cup, pressing slightly to pack it down.

Top with More Chocolate

Cover the cashew filling with the remaining melted chocolate to seal. Return to the freezer until fully set, about 20 minutes.

Enjoy

Once set, remove the cups from the liners and enjoy your homemade treats!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of nut butters or add in some chopped nuts or sea salt for added texture and flavor!

Storage Tips

To keep your Homemade Reese’s Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you're looking to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them good for up to two weeks. However, if you prefer a softer texture, it’s best to enjoy them at room temperature shortly after making them.

If you're making these cups in bulk, they freeze beautifully. Just layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, simply remove them from the freezer and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before enjoying.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of making your own Reese’s Cups is the ability to customize fillings and flavors. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate before it sets for a contrasting flavor burst. You can also fold in crushed nuts, cookie crumbs, or dried fruit to the cashew filling for added texture and taste. Seasonal variations can also be fun; try adding a splash of pumpkin spice in the fall or a hint of peppermint extract during the winter holidays.

If you're looking for a lower-sugar option, replace the powdered sugar in the cashew filling with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just make sure to adjust the quantity according to the sweetener's potency. These swaps allow you to enjoy delicious homemade treats that cater to your dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor and sweetness.

→ How do I store these homemade cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, just ensure to use dairy-free chocolate chips for a fully vegan treat.

→ How long do these last?

They can last up to two weeks in the fridge, but they are best enjoyed fresh!