Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sunflower Butter

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Sunflower Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup sunflower butter; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Ideas

I always loved the classic flavor of Reese’s Cups, but I wanted to create a version that’s not only delicious but also nut-free. That's when I decided to experiment with sunflower butter! The creamy, slightly sweet taste of sunflower butter complements the chocolate perfectly. Making these cups at home is super easy and allows for customization to suit your taste. Plus, they are a fun treat to make with kids. Get ready to indulge in a healthier version of your favorite candy!

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:16:50.913Z

When I decided to make my own Reese’s Cups, I knew I wanted to switch things up with sunflower butter for a nut-free option. I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked! The taste is unique yet still reminiscent of the original, and the recipe is straightforward for anyone to follow.

During my first attempt, I realized the importance of properly tempering the chocolate to ensure it’s shiny and smooth. A simple method is to melt chocolate in a double boiler and gradually introduce it to cooler chocolate, which helps achieve that perfect consistency!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy sunflower butter
Nut-free alternative that everyone can enjoy
Easily customizable with different mix-ins

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Layer

To achieve a flawlessly smooth chocolate layer, ensure you melt the chocolate chips gently. Using a microwave, allow the chocolate to melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This method helps prevent the chocolate from seizing up. If you find your chocolate has thickened too much, adding a little more coconut oil can help restore its creaminess and improve pourability.

When pouring the molten chocolate into the muffin liners, use enough to cover the bottom but be careful not to overfill. A thin layer allows for an ideal base, ensuring that the chocolate layer isn't too thick, which can lead to troublesome texture issues when biting into the finished cups.

Creating the Sunflower Butter Filling

The sunflower butter filling is where you can truly infuse flavor. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by varying the amount of powdered sugar. For a more decadent treat, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for depth. Just remember to keep your fillings balanced; too much sweetness can overpower the chocolate next layer, so taste as you mix!

If you want to amp up the texture of your filling, consider folding in crushed pretzels or vegan chocolate chips. This added crunch can complement the smoothness of the sunflower butter wonderfully, creating a delightful contrast that makes each bite exciting.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your homemade treats.

Ingredients for Homemade Reese’s Cups

1 cup sunflower butter
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon coconut oil

These ingredients will help you make delicious homemade candy!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely to make your own Reese’s Cups.

Prepare the Chocolate

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

Create the First Layer

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Using a spoon, pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, just enough to coat the bottom. Place them in the refrigerator to set for 10 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the sunflower butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until creamy. Take the chocolate-coated liners out of the refrigerator.

Add the Filling

Spoon the sunflower butter mixture evenly into each chocolate-lined cup, filling them about three-quarters full.

Top with Chocolate

Melt the remaining chocolate chips and pour over the sunflower butter layer to cover completely. Tap the muffin tin gently to remove air bubbles.

Chill and Enjoy

Refrigerate for an additional 15 minutes until fully set. Peel away the liners and enjoy your homemade treats!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Reese’s Cups anytime!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try adding crushed graham crackers or sunflower seeds into the filling before sealing them with chocolate.

Storing Your Homemade Cups

These homemade Reese’s cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The cool environment keeps the chocolate firm and the filling fresh. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can even freeze them! Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When you're ready to enjoy them from the freezer, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the chocolate to soften slightly while keeping the filling cold and creamy, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

If your chocolate layer isn’t setting properly, ensure that you're using the right type of chocolate. Dark chocolate chips tend to hold their shape better during melting than other types. Additionally, if your chocolate is too thick, adding a bit more coconut oil while melting can improve its texture, making it easier to coat the sunflower butter filling.

Another common issue is the filling overflowing during the final chocolate layer. To prevent this, be mindful of how much sunflower butter mixture you add; a three-quarters fill is key. If some do overflow, simply trim it with a knife once set, giving you a clean edge and tidier presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of nut butters?

Yes, any nut or seed butter can be used, but be mindful of allergies.

→ How should I store these cups?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, when you use dark chocolate that’s dairy-free, this recipe can easily be made vegan.