Imagine a dessert so irresistible, it combines the ultimate flavor duo of chocolate and peanut butter in a romantic heart-shaped treat that's guaranteed to melt hearts faster than the chocolate itself! These Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts are not just a Valentine's Day dessert; they're a declaration of delicious love that will make anyone swoon. Whether you're looking to impress your sweetheart or treat yourself to a decadent homemade delight, this recipe promises to be your secret weapon of culinary romance.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 hearts
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Heart-shaped cookie cutter
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside for easy cleanup and heart removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and fully incorporated, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the butter-peanut butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a firm, moldable dough forms. The consistency should be similar to play-dough and hold its shape when pressed.
- Transfer the peanut butter mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet and use your hands to flatten it evenly to approximately 1/2 inch thickness.
- Take the heart-shaped cookie cutter and carefully press it into the flattened peanut butter mixture, creating heart-shaped cutouts. Leave a small space between each heart.
- Place the baking sheet with peanut butter hearts into the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up and make chocolate coating easier.
- Meanwhile, prepare the chocolate coating by melting chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely smooth and glossy.
- Remove the chilled peanut butter hearts from the refrigerator and carefully separate them from the parchment paper.
- Dip each heart into the melted chocolate, using a fork to help coat evenly and tap off excess chocolate. Place back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Return the chocolate-coated hearts to the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.
- Before serving, let the hearts sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter and peanut butter are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Powdered Sugar Technique: Add powdered sugar gradually to control the dough's consistency.
- Chilling is Key: Refrigerate the hearts before and after chocolate coating for clean, professional-looking results.
- Chocolate Melting Hack: Use short microwave intervals and stir frequently to prevent chocolate burning.
- Coating Trick: Use a fork to dip and drain excess chocolate for a thin, even layer.
- Storage Tip: These hearts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them perfect for advance preparation.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the hearts sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 317kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 8mg
