Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup milk chocolate chips; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup pretzels, crushed; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Favorites

I love making my own treats at home, and these Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch have quickly become a favorite of mine. The combination of smooth chocolate and creamy peanut butter, topped with crunchy pretzels, creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors that I can’t resist. Plus, preparing them is a fun activity that makes for great sharing. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by that beloved sweet and salty taste that brings me back to my childhood. It’s amazing how something so nostalgic can be so easy to create!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:47:35.311Z

Making these cups has become a cherished tradition at home. The laughter shared while melting chocolate and pouring it into molds is something I look forward to. I experimented with adding pretzel pieces to the chocolate mixture, and it really elevated the flavor and crunch. The contrast of sweet and salty balances the richness of the peanut butter filling beautifully.

I learned that letting the peanut butter filling chill before pouring in the chocolate helps it retain its shape, ensuring that each cup has a perfect bite every time. I’ve made this recipe several times, tweaking the amount of pretzels according to my mood, and it’s always a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Irresistible sweet and salty combination
Crunchy textures paired with creamy peanut butter
Fun and easy to make with family or friends

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of chocolate is crucial in making these Homemade Reese’s Cups. I recommend using a blend of milk and dark chocolate chips for a well-rounded flavor. Milk chocolate provides sweetness and creaminess, while dark chocolate adds depth and a hint of bitterness, balancing the overall sweetness. If you're looking to make this treat a bit more indulgent, consider using a high-quality chocolate. The melting chocolate should be heated gently to prevent burning—aim for melting it until it's glossy and smooth before pouring it into the liners.

When selecting pretzels, look for the thin, crunchy variety to achieve the best texture contrast with the creamy filling. You can crush them by placing them in a zip-top bag and gently rolling over them with a rolling pin. This method keeps the mess minimal and the size consistent. If you prefer a different crunch, you might substitute crushed potato chips or mixed nuts for a unique twist, but keep in mind that the flavor will shift accordingly.

Assembly Tips

When assembling your cups, ensure that the chocolate layer is completely hardened before adding the filling. This typically takes about 30 minutes at room temperature, though you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator. If the chocolate seems too soft, hit it with a quick chill before adding the peanut butter layer. A well-chilled base prevents the layers from mixing and helps maintain that delightful texture difference with each bite.

When adding the peanut butter filling, make sure you evenly distribute it into each cup. A tablespoon is usually sufficient for a perfect ratio; just press it down gently to level it off. For aesthetics and a better bite, try to leave a little space at the top for the crushed pretzels and dark chocolate. If you find that the peanut butter mixture is too sticky, a tiny drizzle of oil can help make it easier to work with without disrupting the flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful treats:

For the Chocolate Cups

1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup pretzels, crushed

For the Peanut Butter Filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

With these ingredients ready, you’ll be set to create your own special treats!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Chocolate Base

Melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler until smooth. Spoon a tablespoon of melted chocolate into cupcake liners, spreading it along the bottom and sides. Set aside to cool and harden.

Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Once the chocolate has hardened, fill each cup with about a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture. Press down gently to flatten. Top with the crushed pretzels, then cover with the melted dark chocolate, ensuring each cup is fully enclosed.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for about 10-15 minutes to allow them to set fully before enjoying.

Now that your Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch are ready, enjoy them with friends or save them for a special treat!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using flavored chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before they cool.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Homemade Reese’s Cups can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their integrity. If you want to extend their shelf life further, consider freezing them—wrap each cup in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer; just allow them to thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

When getting ready for a party or event, consider preparing an extra batch of these cups. The assembly step is quick, and with a bit of advance preparation, you can keep the filling and chocolate ready to go. This way, you can whip up batches as needed, ensuring that your treats are always fresh and inviting for guests.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with the types of nut butter in the filling! Almond butter or cashew butter can add a unique twist to the classic flavor profile. Just be cautious about the consistency, as some nut butters may be thicker; slightly adjust the powdered sugar if needed. Keep the same proportions for balance, ensuring the filling maintains a creamy, spreadable texture.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the top of each cup before the chocolate sets. This small touch intensifies the sweet-salty dynamic, elevating the overall taste. Alternatively, mix in a splash of coffee or espresso powder into the peanut butter filling for a delightful mocha twist that surprises the palate with each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dairy-free chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Dairy-free chocolate chips work great for a vegan version of this recipe.

→ How do I store these cups?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness for up to a week.

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes, feel free to experiment with almond butter or cashew butter for a different twist!

→ What if I don’t have cupcake liners?

You can also use silicone molds or simply coat a muffin tin with a light layer of oil to prevent sticking.