Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups (Lunchbox-Friendly & Better-for-You)
Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko

A creamy peanut butter center hugged by rich dark chocolate. No mystery ingredients—just the classic combo, made real.
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both satisfying and made from simple ingredients, these homemade dark chocolate peanut butter cups are about to become your new favorite. They’re no-bake, freezer-friendly, and take just minutes to make—perfect for busy parents, meal-preppers, or anyone trying to swap out ultra-processed snacks for something homemade and mindful.
Plus, they pack beautifully into a lunchbox—whether you’re making your kid’s school snack or building your own nourishing lunch for work.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cups:
- Made with just 5 wholesome ingredients
- Not super sweet, no additives, no stress
- Naturally gluten-free and easily dairy-free
- Keeps well in the fridge or freezer
- A perfect portion-controlled treat for kids AND grownups
- A fun after-school snack or sweet addition to a meal-prepped lunch
Ingredients (Makes 10–12 mini cups)
For the chocolate shell:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% or higher recommended)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (for shine + easier spreading)
For the peanut butter filling:
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (just peanuts + salt)
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- 2 tbsp coconut flour or oat flour (to thicken)
- Pinch of salt (if peanut butter is unsalted)
Instructions
1. Prep your mold
Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or use a silicone mold for easy release.
2. Melt the chocolate
In a small bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together (microwave in 20-second intervals or use a double boiler), stirring until smooth.
3. Make the peanut butter filling
In a separate bowl, stir together peanut butter, maple syrup (if using), coconut flour, and salt. Mix until it forms a thick, rollable dough. If too soft, chill for 5–10 minutes.
4. Assemble the cups
Spoon 1 tsp melted chocolate into the bottom of each cup. Roll ~1 tsp of peanut butter filling into a disc and gently press it on top. Cover with another spoonful of melted chocolate.
5. Chill until set
Place the tray in the freezer for 15–20 minutes, or until firm. Store in the fridge or freezer in a sealed container.
How to Pack in Lunchboxes
For Kids:
- 1 mini cup is the perfect size for a sweet bite in a bento-style box
- Pair with sliced apple or banana + cheese string for a balanced treat
- Tip: Keep a freezer stash and pack frozen—they’ll thaw by lunch!
For Adults:
- Add one to your meal-prepped lunch for the perfect midday pick-me-up
- Great with a coffee or tucked next to a protein-rich wrap or salad
Dietitian Notes
These peanut butter cups offer:
- Healthy fats from peanut butter and dark chocolate
- Less sugar than store-bought versions (you can even skip it!)
- Real, recognizable ingredients
- A mindful way to satisfy a chocolate craving
Nut-free option? Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make these school-safe.
Variations to Try
- Crunchy peanut butter for texture
- Add a thin slice of banana or raspberry in the center before sealing
- Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top for that sweet-salty combo
- Use almond butter, cashew butter, or even tahini for a twist
Made These? Tag Me!
If these made their way into your lunchbox—or your little one’s—I want to see it! Tag me @thefoodstylistrd so I can celebrate your peanut butter cup perfection.
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"I do not consider myself as anything special unless I am able to achieve success. I strive to keep moving forward, organizing my life, and facing challenges head-on."
Elis Halenko