Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor
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 creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Oven Favorites

I can’t express how thrilled I am to share this recipe for Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and espresso is a match made in dessert heaven, and I think you’ll agree after just one bite. The creamy peanut butter filling takes on a delightful twist from the espresso, making these cups the ultimate treat for coffee lovers. They are surprisingly simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you are indulging after dinner or surprising a friend with a homemade gift.

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:57:35.775Z

Each time I make these homemade Reese’s Cups, I am reminded of the first time I experimented with flavors. I decided to add espresso to the classic peanut butter and chocolate, and it was an instant hit! The coffee notes brighten the richness of the chocolate, and the bites are utterly satisfying. I learned that using quality chocolate makes a big difference in flavor depth.

When I shared these cups with friends, their faces lit up with joy—there’s something special about making something from scratch that everyone loves. One tip I’d suggest is to ensure the mixture isn’t too warm when pouring into the molds, as it helps to keep the layers distinct and attractive.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistible espresso flavor enhances the classic taste of Reese’s cups
Simple ingredients come together to create a gourmet dessert at home
Perfect balance of sweet and salty keeps you craving for more

      

Understanding Ingredients

The quality of chocolate you choose can significantly alter the taste of your Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor. I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips, as they melt smoothly and lend a rich flavor without any waxy texture. For a more complex taste, consider using bittersweet or semisweet chocolate. The balance of milk chocolate and dark chocolate creates a delightful depth that complements the peanut butter and espresso filling beautifully.

Espresso powder is the secret ingredient that elevates this classic treat. It not only adds a distinct coffee flavor but also enhances the chocolate and peanut butter notes. If you’re out of espresso powder, you can replace it with finely ground coffee, but be aware that it may not dissolve completely, creating a grainier texture. For those avoiding caffeine, a caffeine-free espresso powder is available that delivers the same robust flavor without the jitters.

Techniques for Success

When melting the chocolate, be cautious not to overheat it. Chocolate can easily seize if it gets too hot, turning it grainy and unusable. Microwaving in 30-second intervals and stirring in between promotes even melting, helping you achieve a glossy finish. If using a stovetop, use a double boiler setup to maintain a gentle heat. Always remove it from the heat just before it's completely melted, as the residual heat will continue to melt it further.

To achieve perfectly layered Reese's Cups, ensure the first chocolate layer is evenly distributed, swirling it to cover the sides of the liners. This layer should be thin, just enough to create a shell. When filling with peanut butter, leave a small gap at the top; this helps prevent overflowing when you add the final chocolate layer. Lastly, ensure the cups are fully frozen before removing them from the molds, as this will maintain their shape and prevent breakage.

Ingredients

For the Cups

1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon espresso powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Prepare these ingredients for a delightful treat!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk chocolate chips and half of the dark chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Prepare the Molds

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a spoonful of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, swirling to cover the sides. Freeze for 10 minutes to set.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix together peanut butter, powdered sugar, espresso powder, and salt until smooth. Spoon the filling into each chocolate layer, filling just below the top.

Top with Chocolate

Melt the remaining dark chocolate and pour it over the peanut butter filling, covering it completely. Freeze for another 10 minutes until set.

Enjoy!

Remove from the molds and enjoy your delicious homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor!

Enjoy your homemade treats!

Pro Tips

Using a silicone mold can make removing the cups much easier. Also, feel free to experiment with dark chocolate to enhance the flavor even further!

Storage Tips

Once your Homemade Reese’s Cups with Espresso Flavor are fully set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They also freeze well, making them a great make-ahead treat. Just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and they can easily last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for the best texture.

If you find you have a few cups left after a gathering, consider using them in other desserts. Crumble them over ice cream, fold them into brownies, or chop them up for a unique topping on yogurt or pancakes. This versatility makes these cups not just a treat on their own but also a delicious addition to other dishes.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an added touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate before it sets. This enhances the flavors and adds a delightful crunch. You can also use flavored chocolate, such as caramel or almond chocolate, to create different variations. Each version brings its unique appeal while keeping the essence of the classic Reese’s Cup.

If you're looking to make these cups a bit healthier, try using dark chocolate with a higher cacao percentage or substitute the creamy peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a nutty twist. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in the filling for an alternative to powdered sugar, keeping the dessert aligned with your dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes, you can substitute almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile!

→ How do I store the cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate and your preferred nut butter to make them vegan-friendly.

→ What should I do if my chocolate isn’t melting smoothly?

Make sure to heat it slowly, and avoid getting any moisture in the bowl, which can cause chocolate to seize.