Chocolate Peanut Butter Meltaways are a perfect indulgence, combining the timeless flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treat. These no-bake confections are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and can be enjoyed at any time of the year, especially during festive seasons. Whether you’re gifting them or serving them at a gathering, they are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Peanut Butter Meltaways
The combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate is a classic for a reason. These meltaways take that pairing to a new level with a silky texture and bite-sized form that dissolves in your mouth. They are perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or as a treat for yourself whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients Breakdown
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect meltaway texture and flavor:
- White Chocolate Chips (6 ounces / 170 grams): These chips provide a rich, creamy base that complements the peanut butter. Choose high-quality chips to ensure smooth melting.
- Bittersweet or Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (3 ounces / 85 grams): These balance the sweetness of the white chocolate and peanut butter, adding a depth of flavor with a slight bitterness.
- Creamy Peanut Butter (½ cup / 135 grams): Adds the smooth, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate. Stick with regular creamy peanut butter to avoid texture issues.
- Coconut Oil or Solid Shortening (1 tablespoon / 14 grams): Helps create a smooth, firm texture and prevents the meltaways from becoming too soft.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare the Mini Muffin Pan: Line a mini muffin pan with paper liners to make the candies easy to remove and add a decorative touch.
- Combine Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the white chocolate chips, bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and coconut oil.
- Melting Process: Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals on 50% power, stirring after each, until smooth. This prevents the chocolate from scorching and helps achieve a silky texture.
- Filling the Liners: Pour the melted mixture into the mini muffin liners, using a piping bag or measuring cup with a spout for precision.
- Setting the Candies: Refrigerate the filled pan for about 30 minutes or until the candies harden. Once set, they should easily release from the liners.
Enhancing Your Meltaways
- Toppings: Before the candies set, add crushed nuts, a sprinkle of sea salt, or colorful sprinkles to enhance both flavor and appearance.
- Flavor Variations: For a twist, add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the mixture before melting.
- Chocolate Alternatives: Swap out the white and bittersweet chocolate for milk or dark chocolate to suit your taste preferences.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Storage: Keep the meltaways in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking.
- Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place. If it’s too warm, refrigerate them, but let them come to room temperature before serving to retain their melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Shelf Life: Properly stored, these meltaways will last up to two weeks, making them ideal for pre-made holiday treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use natural peanut butter? It’s best to use regular creamy peanut butter as natural versions may separate and affect the texture.
- Can I make them without a microwave? Yes, use a double boiler on the stovetop to melt the ingredients smoothly.
- How many candies does the recipe yield? This recipe typically makes 24 pieces, depending on the size of your muffin pan.
- Can I freeze them for longer storage? Yes, freeze the meltaways in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.
- How can I make them firmer for warmer climates? Add slightly more coconut oil or shortening to help the candies hold their shape in warmer conditions.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 candy (approximately 15g)
- Calories: 99 kcal per candy
Chocolate Peanut Butter Meltaways are a decadent treat that’s perfect for gifting or satisfying your sweet tooth. These quick, easy, no-bake candies come together in just minutes with the help of your microwave. Their irresistible blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter makes them a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (6 oz/170 g) white chocolate chips
- ½ cup (3 oz/85 g) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (4.75 oz/135 g) creamy peanut butter (see tips below)
- 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz/14 g) coconut oil or solid shortening (see tips below)
Directions
- Prepare Your Pan: Line a mini muffin tray with paper liners and set it aside.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and coconut oil. Microwave on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and well combined.
- Pour and Chill: Divide the mixture evenly into the prepared paper liners. If desired, add decorations or toppings. Refrigerate until the candies firm up.
- Store Properly: Keep the meltaways in an airtight container in the fridge or in a cool place.
Tips for Best Results
- Peanut Butter: Use regular creamy peanut butter, as reduced-fat or generic varieties may affect the texture.
- Coconut Oil: Opt for refined coconut oil to avoid imparting any coconut flavor.
- Microwaving: A large glass measuring cup with a spout is ideal for melting, as it makes pouring easier.
- Filling the Liners: For precise pouring, a piping bag works best, but a spoon will work just fine too.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Total Servings: 24
- Calories: 99 kcal
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 2 mg
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Potassium: 73 mg
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Calcium: 20 mg
- Iron: 0.3 mg