Are you a peanut butter cup fanatic? Do you dream of a Reese's Cup so big, so decadent, it could feed a small army (or just you, we won't judge)? Then get ready, because this recipe is about to blow your mind! This isn't your average candy; this is a giant, homemade Reese's cup, brimming with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter goodness. It's the perfect treat for parties, holidays, or simply satisfying that intense chocolate-peanut butter craving. Get ready for a truly delicious and surprisingly easy homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Shell:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for shinier finish)
Instructions:
Making the Peanut Butter Filling:
- Cream Together: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can do it by hand if you're feeling strong!
- Add Peanut Butter and Sugar: Gradually add the peanut butter and powdered sugar, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Stir in Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be thick and spreadable.
Assembling the Giant Reese's Cup:
- Prepare Your Mold: Find a large bowl (at least 6-inch diameter) or a similarly sized container that's oven-safe. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Add the Filling: Spread the peanut butter filling evenly into the bottom of your prepared mold. Make sure it's a relatively even layer, about 1/2 inch thick. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
- Pour the Chocolate: Carefully pour the melted chocolate over the chilled peanut butter filling, ensuring it coats the entire surface evenly.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Remove and Enjoy: Once set, gently run a knife or spatula around the edges to loosen the giant Reese's cup from the mold. Lift it out and admire your creation!
Tips for Success:
- Chill Time is Key: Don't skip the chilling step! This ensures the peanut butter filling stays firm and doesn't melt into the chocolate.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Using good quality peanut butter and chocolate will make a big difference in the overall taste of your giant Reese's cup.
- Get Creative with the Mold: Feel free to experiment with different molds. A springform pan, a heart-shaped dish, or even a muffin tin for individual-sized cups all work well!
Variations:
- Add Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts, pretzels, or cookie crumbs to the peanut butter filling for added texture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon to the peanut butter filling for a unique flavor twist.
- Dark Chocolate Delight: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Milk Chocolate Magic: Use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, milder taste.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving – serving size will vary depending on the size of your mold):
Calories: Approximately 500-700 calories (depending on size and ingredients). This is a treat, so enjoy in moderation! The exact calorie count will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Consider using a nutrition calculator for a more precise estimate.
This giant Reese's cup is a fun, easy recipe that's sure to impress. It's perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth and is a great way to showcase your homemade cooking skills. Enjoy!