Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups milk chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 cup crushed pretzels; Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Collection

I absolutely love making my own version of Reese’s cups, especially when I can add a twist like pretzel crunch. The combination of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and the crunchiness of pretzels creates an irresistible treat. Making them at home allows me to control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness to my preference. Plus, it’s a fun project to do on a weekend or for a party. Trust me, once you've tasted these homemade delights, store-bought treats will never measure up!

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:19:35.222Z

Making these Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch has been a delightful journey for my taste buds. The first time I tried this recipe, I knew I was onto something special. I love how the salty pretzel bits balance the sweet chocolate and peanut butter. It’s essential to crush the pretzels finely but not into powder; it adds that satisfying texture that elevates each bite.

I also discovered that tempering the chocolate before dipping ensures a glossy finish and a perfect snap. Using high-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference in flavor, creating a gourmet version of a childhood classic. Every time I've made them, friends and family ask for the recipe—it's a surefire hit!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by salty pretzel crunch
Creamy peanut butter filling that satisfies your sweet cravings
Fun and easy to make, perfect for sharing with loved ones

      

Mastering Melting Chocolate

Melting chocolate can be tricky, but with the right technique, you can achieve a perfectly smooth and glossy finish. Make sure you use a microwave-safe bowl and heat the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in 30-second intervals. Stir vigorously after each interval; this keeps the chocolate from overheating, which can lead to a grainy texture. The goal is a melted consistency that flows easily but isn't burnt.

Alternatively, if you prefer stovetop melting, use a double boiler setup. Place a heatproof bowl over simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Stir constantly as the chocolate melts to prevent it from seizing. Once you achieve that glossy sheen, you’re good to go!

Customizing Your Cups

One of the joys of making your own Reese’s cups is the ability to customize them to your taste. You can experiment with different nut butters, such as almond or cashew, to give your filling a unique flavor. If you want a healthier option, consider using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate; it will add a rich, slightly bittersweet contrast to the sweetness of the filling.

For added texture and flavor, try mixing in fun ingredients with the crushed pretzels, such as toffee bits or mini marshmallows. This can elevate your homemade cups to something truly special. Just be sure to maintain the ratio of chocolate to filling so that they set properly.

Storage Tips and Variations

Once your cups are set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider freezing them. Place the cups in a single layer in a freezer-safe container; they should keep well for up to three months. Let them thaw in the fridge a few hours before serving for the best texture.

If you're planning to serve these at a party, consider creating a variety platter. You can make some with the pretzel crunch and others with different toppings, such as crushed nuts or sprinkles. This not only makes for an appealing display but also satisfies a range of taste preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your own Homemade Reese’s Cups:

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups milk chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 cup crushed pretzels
Sea salt (for sprinkling)

These simple ingredients will come together to form a delicious treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Homemade Reese’s Cups with Pretzel Crunch:

Prepare the filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Melt the chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully smooth.

Set up the cups

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a small amount of melted chocolate into each liner, spreading it to cover the bottom. Let it set for a few minutes.

Add the filling

Spoon a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture on top of the chocolate in each cup. Press down gently.

Finish with chocolate

Top with additional melted chocolate, making sure to cover the peanut butter filling entirely. Sprinkle crushed pretzels on top and a hint of sea salt.

Chill

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate sets completely.

Enjoy your homemade treats!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor dimension, consider using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate, or adding a dash of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate doesn’t set properly, it might be due to too much moisture in your melting process, causing it to seize. To fix this, make sure your bowl and tools are completely dry before heating the chocolate. If it gets clumpy, you can add a tiny bit of coconut oil to helps smooth it out.

Sometimes, the filling might overflow if you overstuff the cups. To avoid this, measure out a tablespoon for each cup and press lightly to flatten it, ensuring there’s enough space for the chocolate layer on top.

Serving Suggestions

These homemade Reese's cups are an indulgent treat on their own, but you can serve them as part of a dessert platter or alongside fresh fruit for a delightful contrast. Pairing them with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert experience.

For a fun twist, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top of the cups after setting. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds another layer of sweetness that complements the salty pretzels and creamy peanut butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can add an interesting texture to the filling!

→ How long do these homemade cups last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

You can substitute dairy-free chocolate chips and choose a vegan peanut butter to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

→ What if I don’t have coconut oil?

You can omit the coconut oil, or substitute it with a neutral oil like vegetable oil, but it helps with the chocolate's consistency.