Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

I absolutely love making my own candy, and these Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor have become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a hint of espresso creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. Every bite is a perfect balance of flavors, and making them at home ensures freshness and quality. Plus, it’s so fun to experiment with the ratios and add a little twist to a classic recipe. Let’s dive into making this delicious chocolate indulgence!

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:20:41.489Z

When I first tried making Reese’s Cups at home, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to replicate that classic flavor. The secret? Using quality chocolate and a good peanut butter that’s not too sweet. I also decided to add espresso for a unique twist, which gives each cup an extra burst of flavor that elevates this treat.

The key to getting that perfect texture is to let the chocolate set just right, so I recommend chilling them in the fridge after assembling. Trust me, these cups will disappear quickly, and you’ll impress everyone with your delicious homemade candy!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a kick of espresso
Creamy peanut butter filling that’s perfectly balanced
Easily customizable for various flavor preferences

      

Perfecting Your Chocolate Layer

Getting the chocolate layer just right is essential for the perfect texture and flavor of your Homemade Reese’s Cups. Use high-quality chocolate chips for a glossy finish, as they melt better and create a smoother consistency. Microwave the chocolate and coconut oil together in short bursts, stirring thoroughly in between to prevent burning. Aim for a smooth, pourable mixture; if it becomes too thick, an additional teaspoon of coconut oil can help achieve the desired consistency.

When coating the muffin tin, a thin layer of chocolate is key. Ensure you pour just enough into each cup to cover the bottom and slightly up the sides. This creates a sturdy shell for the peanut butter filling. If you overfill the cups, you'll have a mess; if underfilled, the cups may lack structural integrity. Once you’ve poured the chocolate, refrigerate for precisely 10 minutes to ensure it firms up before adding the filling.

Crafting the Ideal Peanut Butter Filling

The peanut butter filling is what elevates these cups from ordinary to extraordinary. Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture, and consider natural brands without added sugars, as the powdered sugar will provide enough sweetness. Mixing in espresso powder enhances the flavor profile, but for an alternative, try finely ground coffee or omit it entirely for a classic taste. If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the powdered sugar slightly and adjust to your taste.

To achieve a creamy filling without lumps, start by mixing the peanut butter and powdered sugar separately before adding the espresso powder and salt. This step ensures even distribution of sugar and enhances the creaminess. The filling should be thick yet spreadable; if it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or as needed to loosen it for easier assembly. A well-made filling is essential to balance the chocolate layer's richness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious homemade Reese’s Cups.

For the Cups

1 cup chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon espresso powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

With these ingredients ready, let's get started on making your Reese’s Cups!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your own Reese’s Cups!

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

Coat the Muffin Tin

Using a spoon, pour a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each muffin cup, ensuring it covers the sides slightly. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to set.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, espresso powder, and salt until well combined and creamy.

Assemble the Cups

Once the chocolate has set, add a generous spoonful of the peanut butter mixture on top of the chocolate layer in each cup. Use the remaining melted chocolate to cover the filling completely.

Chill and Enjoy

Return the muffin tin to the refrigerator and let the cups chill for at least 30 minutes. Once set, pop them out and enjoy your homemade treats!

Enjoy these delicious Reese’s Cups, and don’t forget to share with friends (or keep them all to yourself)!

Pro Tips

For a crunchier texture, you can add crushed peanuts into the filling. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate – dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the espresso flavor!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Homemade Reese’s Cups can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal treat for parties or meal prep. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you're making a larger batch, consider freezing them; they freeze well for up to three months. Simply let them thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying to retain their texture.

For the best experience, bring the cups to room temperature after chilling or freezing. This enhances the flavor and creaminess of the peanut butter. If storing for a special occasion, layer the cups between parchment paper in a container to prevent them from sticking together.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your chocolate isn’t melting smoothly, check the temperature of your microwave—if it’s too high, the chocolate may seize. Reduce the heat or try melting slowly over a double boiler instead of the microwave to prevent overheating. If the chocolate is too thick after cooling, reheat it gently with a bit more coconut oil to restore its pourable consistency.

For a firmer peanut butter filling, adjust the powdered sugar or try adding a bit of room temperature butter. This can make the filling less sticky and easier to handle. If you end up with excess filling, it can make for a delicious dip for pretzels or apple slices—just keep it refrigerated until ready to enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well, but you might need to adjust the sugar since it's less sweet.

→ How do I store the Reese's Cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a vegan peanut butter that fits your diet.

→ What if I don't have espresso powder?

If you don't have espresso powder, you can substitute with instant coffee or simply omit it for regular peanut butter cups.