Caramel Peanut Butter Cookie Cups: The Ultimate Sweet Treat

Delicious Caramel Peanut Butter Cookie Cups

If you love the irresistible combination of caramel and peanut butter, then Caramel Peanut Butter Cookie Cups are about to become your new favorite treat! These bite-sized delights bring together a buttery, chewy cookie base, creamy peanut butter, and a luscious caramel center. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday gathering, a sweet breakfast treat, or simply indulging in a homemade dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The Popularity of Caramel and Peanut Butter Desserts

Caramel and peanut butter have long been a dynamic duo in the world of sweets. Peanut butter’s salty richness perfectly balances the deep, buttery sweetness of caramel. From candy bars to ice cream sundaes, this pairing has delighted dessert lovers for generations.

The popularity of Caramel Peanut Butter Cookie Cups has also soared in recent years, thanks to their convenient size and customization fillings. These little treats take the best parts of cookies and candy and turn them into a decadent bite-sized experience.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make Caramel Peanut Butter Cookie Cups, you’ll need simple pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup peanut butter chips

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 15 soft caramel candies, unwrapped
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Heat up your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Using a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Blend the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a new bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix in dry ingredients to the wet ingredients little by little.
6. Fold in the peanut butter chips.

Step 3: Form & Bake the Caramel Peanut Butter Cookie Cups

1. Roll out the dough into 1-inch balls and place them into the mini muffin tin.
2. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in each dough ball.
3. Cook in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
4. Take out of the oven and gently press the centers again to reinforce the cup shape.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. Microwave safe bowl , and then warm the peanut butter until creamy.
2. In another microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel candies and heavy cream. Heat in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookie Cups

1. Spoon a small amount of peanut butter into each cookie cup.
2. Drizzle or spoon melted caramel on top.
3. Sprinkle with sea salt for a gourmet touch.
4. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle over the top for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Nut-Free Version: Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter.
• Stuffed Surprise: Place a small chocolate candy inside each cookie cup before baking for a fun twist.
• Crunch Factor: Add crushed pretzels or chopped peanuts to the caramel layer for extra texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make These in Advance?

Yes! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for a week.

Can I Freeze Them?

Absolutely. Freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Let them thaw before serving.

Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel Sauce?

Yes, if you’re short on time, a good-quality store-bought caramel sauce works well as a substitute.

How Do I Prevent the Cookie Cups from Sticking?

Grease your mini muffin tin well or use silicone liners for easy removal.

Conclusion

These Caramel Peanut Butter Cookie Cups are the ultimate bite-sized treat that delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or make a batch to share, they are sure to be a hit. Try them today and let your taste buds celebrate!