Easy Keto Peanut Butter Cups Recipe (Sugar Free & Low Carb!)

Looking for a melt-in-your-mouth sweet treat that’s low-carb, kid-approved, and oh-so-easy? These homemade Keto Peanut Butter Cups check all the boxes! Rich chocolate layers hug a creamy peanut butter filling, and each bite tastes like a little indulgent celebration—without the guilt. Grab your silicone cups and let’s whip up a batch!

These keto peanut butter cups are the treat I make more than any other—my daughter even called me out for not sharing the recipe sooner. Packed with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, they’re the perfect low carb treat. After MANY taste tests, I’ve finally perfected the recipe the way I like it, and now I’m thrilled to share it with you! Prepare for a no-bake treat that’s quick, delicious, and freezer-friendly!

Introduction to Sugar-Free Treats

In recent years, the demand for sugar-free treats has skyrocketed, and it’s easy to see why. With more people becoming aware of the negative health effects of excessive sugar consumption, finding delicious alternatives has become a priority. Enter the world of sugar-free delights, where you can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.

These little bites of heaven combine the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter with the decadent allure of chocolate, all without a speck of added sugar. Whether you’re following a keto diet, managing your sugar intake, or simply looking for a healthier treat, sugar-free peanut butter cups are a game-changer. Let’s dive into why making your own peanut butter cups at home is not only fun but also incredibly rewarding.

The Story

“Mother, why isn’t this on your blog? You make them practically every day!” My daughter’s wide eyes and matter-of-fact tone stopped me in my tracks, and I had to laugh. She was right. Of all the keto treats in the world, these peanut butter cups are the ones I whip up most often. And if you peek in my freezer at any given time, you’ll find at least a handful stashed away.

To be honest, I was a bit shy about posting this recipe originally because I kept fiddling with the ingredients. First, I tried cocoa butter. Then I realized it’s not only hard to find, but also pricey enough to make my wallet glare at me. Next, I toyed with adding coconut oil, but I didn’t always love the consistency it gave the chocolate layer. During the recipe development, I also considered using almond butter and sunflower seed butter as alternatives. After a few (dozen) taste tests, I’ve finally landed on the winning combination of easy-to-find ingredients. And now? Let me show you how you can have these dreamy peanut butter cups ready to devour in no time.

Why You’ll Love These Keto Peanut Butter Cups

1. Simple Ingredients – No elusive, top-secret items here! Real ingredients.
2. A Quick Chocolate Fix – Whip them up fast and freeze to set. Easy and super satisfying. An essential step is to melt chocolate, which can be done using a microwave or a double boiler.
3. Perfectly Portable – Great for on-the-go or for your secret snack stash. (No judgment, friend.)

Benefits of Making Your Own Peanut Butter Cups

Making your own peanut butter cups is a game-changer for several reasons. First and foremost, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that your treats are genuinely sugar-free. No more scanning labels for hidden sugars or unwanted additives—just pure, wholesome goodness.

When you make your own peanut butter cups, you get to choose the type of peanut butter and chocolate you use. Opt for natural peanut butter made with just peanuts (and maybe a pinch of salt) for a creamy, authentic flavor. Or, if you prefer a bit of crunch, go for crunchy natural peanut butter. The choice is yours! And let’s not forget the chocolate—whether you prefer dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or sugar-free chocolate, you can tailor your cups to your taste.

Another fantastic benefit is the cost-effectiveness. Store-bought sugar-free treats can be pricey, but making your own peanut butter cups at home is budget-friendly. Plus, it’s a fun activity that you can enjoy with family or friends.

By using simple ingredients like melted chocolate, a creamy peanut butter mixture, and some butter (or coconut oil), you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, making your own peanut butter cups is a rewarding experience that results in a delicious, healthy snack. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create your own peanut butter cups that are perfect for snacking, gift-giving, or simply indulging in a sweet treat without compromising your health goals.

Ingredients in Keto Peanut Butter Cups

For the Chocolate Layers

• 6 oz Unsweetened Baking Chocolate (chopped): Look for pure, unsweetened bars with zero added sugars or funky fillers. A higher-quality chocolate (often labeled 100% cocoa) has a smoother melt and richer flavor—just what you want in a decadent peanut butter cup.
• 2 Tablespoons Organic Peanut Butter: Check labels for “peanuts only” or minimal ingredients with no added sugar, oils, or preservatives. An organic variety ensures the peanuts weren’t sprayed with chemicals, so you can feel extra good about your sweet treat.
• ¼ Cup Powdered Natural Sweetener (e.g., Lakanto Monk Fruit): Choose a powdered sweetener that dissolves easily without a weird aftertaste. Monk fruit blends are great for keto since they’re low-carb, but test out your favorite brand if you have one on hand.
• Pinch of Salt: Don’t underestimate the power of a tiny pinch! A sprinkle of salt highlights the chocolate’s richness and balances sweetness. Go for a fine sea salt or pink Himalayan salt for a subtle mineral boost.
• 2 Teaspoons Coconut Oil

For the Peanut Butter Center

• ½ Cup Creamy Organic Peanut Butter: Same rule applies here—read that ingredient list! You want peanuts (and maybe salt) as the only stars of the show. No sneaky sugars or oils, please.
• 4 Tablespoons Butter: A good-quality butter (preferably grass-fed, if you can swing it) adds a luscious texture. If salt content matters, choose unsalted and add salt to taste. (Here you can also substitute coconut oil or a butter flavored coconut oil)
• ¼ Teaspoon Salt: Just like with the chocolate layer, a sprinkle of pure sea salt or pink Himalayan salt goes a long way to bring out the best in your peanut butter bliss.
• 1 Teaspoon Good Vanilla Extract: Opt for real vanilla (not imitation) to give the peanut butter center a warm, inviting flavor. Think of it as a hug in liquid form.
• ¼ Cup Powdered Sweetener (Adjust to Taste): A little sweetener can vary from person to person, so feel free to add a smidge more if your sweet tooth is dancing. Just whisk well for a creamy finish!

Kitchen Gadgets Needed to Make Keto Peanut Butter Cups

Silicone Muffin Cups
Hands down one of my most beloved kitchen “gadgets.” They’re naturally non-stick, so there’s no frantic peeling and scraping when you want to pop out a finished peanut butter cup. Plus, they’re reusable—which means less waste and a happy wallet!

Muffin Tin
Even those wiggly silicone cups need a sturdy backbone. A muffin tin holds them upright so your chocolate layers stay put instead of sloshing around. It’s like giving your treats a comfy seat in the freezer!

Microwave-Safe Bowls or a Double Boiler Setup
When it comes to melting chocolate and peanut butter, you can go the shortcut route (microwave in short bursts) or the classic double boiler method (bowl over gently simmering water). Both get the job done; just keep an eye on the chocolate so it doesn’t burn.

Whisk or Spoon for Stirring
A whisk is awesome for chasing away lumps and creating a dreamy, smooth texture—great for the chocolate especially. Don’t worry if you don’t have one on hand; a good ol’ spoon works in a pinch. Just be ready to flex those stirring muscles!

How to Make Keto Peanut Butter Cups

Prep the Muffin Cups

First things first, set your silicone muffin cups into the wells of your muffin tin. This little trick keeps them from wobbling around and splashing chocolate where it doesn’t belong. (Chocolate-coated frozen peas? No, thank you!)

Melt the Chocolate Layer

Next, grab a microwave-safe bowl and toss in the chopped unsweetened chocolate along with 2 tablespoons of peanut butter and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil. To melt chocolate, heat in 30-second bursts, giving everything a good stir each time so your chocolate doesn’t scorch. If microwaves aren’t your style, place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, and stir until smooth and shiny. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup powdered sweetener and just a pinch of salt to taste.

First Chocolate Layer

Now it’s showtime for that chocolate! Pour about half of the warm mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup, forming your base layer. Slide the tray into the freezer for a quick chill—5 to 10 minutes usually does the trick—until it’s firm enough to hold the creamy peanut butter center.

Craft the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling

While your chocolate is chillin’, in another microwave-safe bowl, combine ½ cup peanut butter, 4 tablespoons butter, and ¼ teaspoon salt to create a creamy peanut butter filling. Zap it for about a minute or until everything melts together. Whisk to blend, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ cup of powdered sweetener (adjust to your liking!). Carefully spoon or pour this dreamy peanut butter mix on top of the cooled chocolate layer.

Freeze the Center

Pop the tin back in the freezer for at least 15 minutes. If you need a little extra time to wrangle kiddos or answer a phone call, no worries—your peanut butter layer will wait patiently.

Second Chocolate Layer

Finally, retrieve the muffin tin and pour the remaining chocolate mixture on top, ensuring a proper chocolate coating. Return it to the freezer for another 2–3 hours so the layers bond in sweet, chocolatey harmony. And there you have it: homemade keto peanut butter cups ready to delight your taste buds and brighten your day!

Storage & Serving

• Storage: Once they’re frozen solid, pop each peanut butter cup out of the muffin tin and keep them tucked away in an airtight container in either the fridge or freezer. In the fridge, they’ll happily hang out for up to a week (though good luck keeping them around that long!), while in the freezer, they can stay fresh for about a month. Personally, I can’t resist grabbing one straight from the freezer—although I like to give it a quick five-minute sit on the counter before biting in. It’s my nostalgic throwback to that chocolate peanut butter ice cream swirl I used to savor as a kid, minus the sugar crash!
• Servings: A little goes a long way, so I typically allow myself one a day or as an occasional sweet treat (assuming my family hasn’t ransacked the stash first).

FAQS

1. What peanut butter is lowest in carbs?
Look for peanut butter made with just peanuts (and maybe a bit of salt). The fewer the ingredients, the fewer sneaky carbs. Many brands labeled “natural” or “no sugar added” fit the bill. Simply flip that jar around and scan the nutrition facts! I actually have an entire blog post on this topic, What’s the lowest carb peanut butter for a keto diet?, and I found it’s actually super easy to make your own natural peanut butter.

2. Can you eat peanut butter on a low carb diet?
Absolutely—just don’t go spoon-happy straight from the jar. I may have a problem with this, which is one of the main reasons I like to have my homemade keto PB cups around! Stick to a measured amount (like 1–2 tablespoons) to keep those carbs in check. Go for unsweetened varieties to avoid surprise sugars lurking in the fine print.

3. Can I eat Reese’s on keto?
Regular Reese’s cups are usually loaded with sugar, so they don’t exactly play nice with keto. If you’re on a mission to keep carbs down, opt for sugar-free or homemade alternatives instead—like these yummy keto peanut butter cups you’re reading about!

4. How many carbs are in zero sugar Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups?
Zero sugar doesn’t always mean zero carbs. Depending on the package, they can still have a few net carbs due to sugar alcohols and other ingredients. I personally don’t eat them because maltitol can still spike your blood sugar, and if you read the list of ingredients, there are a lot of additives and things I’ve never heard of. I like basic ingredients I’ve heard of.

5. How many carbs are in a keto peanut butter cup?
It varies by recipe (and sweetener choice!), but a typical homemade or specifically labeled “keto” peanut butter cup often clocks in at about 1–2 net carbs each. Check each recipe’s nutrition info for the most accurate count.

6. Is there a keto-friendly peanut butter?
Yes! Natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils is typically keto-friendly. Keep an eye on the carb count per serving—sometimes even “natural” brands can sneak in sweeteners.

7. Are Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter Cups keto?
They’re low in net carbs and can be suitable for some low carb diets. However, they often use sugar alcohols like maltitol, which affect some people’s blood sugar and I avoid. If you’re strict keto, you may prefer homemade or other brands that use cleaner sweeteners. I definitely do!

Fun Holiday Shapes & Festive Molds

Feeling festive? Swap out those standard muffin cups for holiday-themed silicone molds! Think heart shapes for Valentine’s Day, egg shapes for Easter, or tiny Christmas trees when the snow starts to fall. Simply follow the same layering process—chocolate, peanut butter center, then chocolate again—but pour the mixtures into the seasonal molds of your choice. It’s a quick way to dress up your treats for any party or holiday celebration. Plus, who can resist a peanut butter cup in the shape of a bunny egg? Talk about hopping into the season with style!

Final Thoughts

Now that my daughter’s insisted I share this recipe, there’s no going back! These peanut butter cups satisfy your chocolate cravings, sneak in that glorious nut butter flavor, and keep carbs in check. They’re so good, I’m often left wondering why I bothered trying out so many other recipes in the first place (did anyone truly enjoy that cocoa butter fiasco?).

I hope your family enjoys these as much as we do. If your freezer is always stocked with these, let me know in the comments! I love seeing your takes on my favorite keto treats. Happy snacking!

Pin the recipe here:

Printable recipe card:

More keto recipes:

My favorite keto peanut butter treats!

Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Creamy Keto Peanut Butter Frosting

Keto Peanut Butter Pie

Low Carb Peanut Butter Brownies

Keto Peanut Butter Bark

Thumbprint Keto Peanut Butter Cookies

Ready to make your own batch? Grab your silicone cups, line ’em up, and let’s get freezing!

Nutrition Disclaimer

Please be aware I am not a medical specialist or nutritional professional. On this blog, I share recipes and what works for me. Please do not take anything on this blog as medical advice and always consult with your doctor before starting any diet or exercise program.

I use MyFitnessPal dot com to calculate nutrition facts as a courtesy to my readers. Also, I remove erythritol from the final carb count and net carb count because does not affect my own blood glucose levels.  

This is as accurate as possible, but it’s best to independently calculate nutritional data and nutrition calories on your own with the specific ingredients you use. I expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained on this website.