why make this recipe
Easy Valentine Cookie Cups are a delightful treat perfect for celebrating love and friendship. These cookie cups are simple to make and combine the delicious flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. They are not only quick to prepare but also look adorable with heart-shaped sprinkles. This recipe is especially great for a Valentine’s Day celebration or a fun treat any day of the year.
how to make Easy Valentine Cookie Cups
Ingredients :
Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
- Unsalted butter, softened – 6 tablespoons
- Creamy peanut butter – ½ cup
- Brown sugar – ½ cup
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup
- Vanilla extract – ½ teaspoon
- 1 large egg
- Baking soda – ¾ teaspoon
- All-purpose flour – 1¼ cups
Topping
- Miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – 30
- Jumbo heart sprinkles – as needed
Directions :
Prepare Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is well combined.
Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add Baking Soda
Briefly mix in the baking soda to distribute it evenly throughout the dough.
Add Flour
Mix in the all-purpose flour just until combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
Shape Dough
Roll the dough into 1-tablespoon balls. Place one dough ball into each cavity of the mini muffin pan.
Bake
Bake the cookie cups in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Add Peanut Butter Cups
As soon as you take the cookie cups out of the oven, press one miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup into the center of each hot cookie.
Decorate
Once the chocolate softens a bit, gently press a heart sprinkle onto each peanut butter cup.
Chill
Refrigerate the pan for about 10–15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Remove and Serve
Carefully remove the cookie cups from the pan. Enjoy these sweet treats!
how to serve Easy Valentine Cookie Cups
These cookie cups are best served fresh but can also be placed on a cute platter for sharing. They make a lovely dessert for a romantic dinner or a sweet snack for gatherings with friends. Serve them alongside a glass of milk for a classic combination.
how to store Easy Valentine Cookie Cups
To store your Easy Valentine Cookie Cups, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer them chilled, you can also store them in the refrigerator, where they will last about a week.
tips to make Easy Valentine Cookie Cups
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted to achieve the best texture.
- If dough is too sticky, you can chill it for a few minutes before shaping.
- For an added touch, try using different colors of heart sprinkles to fit various occasions.
variation (if any)
You can easily switch up the toppings by using different types of candies, like chocolate kisses or M&M’s. For a nut-free option, substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give the cookie cups a delightful texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookie cups gluten-free.
How do I know when the cookie cups are done baking?
The cookie cups should have set edges with soft centers when they are ready. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.