These Healthy Peanut Butter and Jelly Cups are a fun twist on the classic combo! With a creamy peanut butter filling and sweet jelly center, they’re a tasty treat without the guilt.
Making these cups is super easy and perfect for snacks or dessert. I always keep a batch in the fridge—they’re great for when I’m craving something sweet! 🍇🥜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Natural Peanut Butter: Choose natural peanut butter with no added sugars or oils for the healthiest option. If you’re allergic to peanuts, try almond butter or sunbutter for a different flavor that’s still delightful.
Coconut Oil: It adds creaminess and helps set the cups. You can use unsalted butter or even avocado oil if you prefer. It may change the flavor slightly, but it’ll still work well!
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both provide natural sweetness. For a vegan option, stick with maple syrup. If you’re low on sweeteners, try using mashed bananas or dates blended into the peanut butter mixture for a different twist.
Fruit Jam or Jelly: Opt for a no-sugar-added variety for health benefits. Homemade jams work wonderfully too! If fresh fruit is available, mashing some berries would also taste great but might alter the texture slightly.
How Do I Make Sure the Peanut Butter Mixture Is Smooth and Creamy?
Getting the peanut butter mixture right is key to these cups. Here are some tips:
- Make sure the coconut oil is fully melted before mixing. This will ensure that everything blends nicely.
- Use a whisk or an electric mixer to combine ingredients. This breaks down any lumps and creates a smooth texture.
- Don’t skip the pinch of salt! It enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
Once your mixture is smooth, layering it in the muffin tins becomes so much easier and ensures great results!
How to Make Healthy Peanut Butter And Jelly Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or creamy, no added sugar)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup fruit jam or jelly (preferably no sugar added, like raspberry or strawberry)
- Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Plus, you’ll need an additional 30-45 minutes for the cups to set in the freezer. In just over 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well with a large spoon or a whisk until everything is smooth and creamy. This mixture will be the base of your cups!
2. Prepare the Muffin Tins:
Line a muffin tin with paper or silicone cupcake liners to make it easy to remove the cups later. This also helps to keep the cups from sticking. You can use regular-sized or mini muffin tins depending on your preference.
3. Create the Base Layer:
Spoon about one tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture into each liner. Spread it evenly across the bottom to create a solid base layer that will hold the jam.
4. Add the Jam:
Next, add approximately one teaspoon of your chosen fruit jam or jelly on top of the peanut butter layer in each cup. Make sure the jam is evenly distributed, and don’t be shy with it — this is where the fruity flavor shines!
5. Seal the Cups:
Top off each cup with another tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture. Spread it over the jam layer to completely cover the jam. This creates a delightful surprise inside when you take a bite!
6. Optional Finishing Touch:
If you’d like, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of each cup. This adds a nice contrast to the sweetness and enhances the flavors beautifully.
7. Freeze the Cups:
Place the muffin tin in the freezer for at least 30-45 minutes, or until the cups are firm. This setting time is crucial so they hold their shape when you remove them from the liner.
8. Enjoy Your Treat:
Once they are set, remove the cups from the muffin tin and allow to sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This will make them easier to bite into. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer — if they last that long!
These Healthy Peanut Butter and Jelly Cups are rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced between nutty and fruity flavors, making them a delicious and guilt-free treat for any time of day!
Can I Use Other Nut Butters?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be used as alternatives to peanut butter. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the nut or seed butter you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. You can also use avocado oil or other neutral oils, but melted coconut oil gives a lovely creaminess that’s hard to beat!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for about a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just allow them to thaw for a few minutes before enjoying!
Can I Make These Without Sugar?
Yes! You can omit the maple syrup or honey altogether and rely on the sweetness from the fruit jam or jelly. For a no-sugar-added option, look for fruit spreads without any added sugars or make your own jam at home using pureed fruits.
