Homemade Reese’s Cups with Vanilla Filling

Name: Homemade Reese’s Cups with Vanilla Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I absolutely love making my own Homemade Reese’s Cups with Vanilla Filling. There's something incredibly satisfying about creating this classic treat from scratch. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy vanilla filling brings back memories of childhood favorites while providing a fresh twist. Each time I take a bite, I find myself wanting to share these sweet delights with friends and family. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make! With just a few ingredients, you can impress anyone with your homemade candy skills.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:29:34.766Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to recreate my childhood favorites—Reese’s Cups—using a delicious vanilla filling instead of the traditional peanut butter. The balance of flavors is sublime, and I was amazed at how easily I could create such a satisfying treat. One tip I found particularly helpful was to chill the chocolate before pouring it into the molds for an even coating!

After sharing them with friends, the response was overwhelmingly positive! Everyone loved the creamy vanilla filling paired with the luscious chocolate exterior. This twist not only elevates the classic but also provides a delightful surprise in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try making them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy vanilla filling
Easy to make and customizable with different fillings
Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo on a sweet craving

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Cups

Achieving the ideal consistency for your chocolate cups is crucial. The blend of semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil not only enhances flavor but also ensures the chocolate remains glossy and firm after chilling. When melting, a double boiler is essential to control the heat and avoid scorching the chocolate. Aim for a smooth, pourable texture; if it seems too thick, add a touch more coconut oil. Pouring the chocolate into the liners should let it pool slightly at the bottom while you coat the sides.

Allowing the chocolate to set in the refrigerator for 10 minutes is vital to ensure it hardens correctly before adding the filling. If you're in a hurry, you can place them in the freezer for about 5 minutes, but keep an eye on them to prevent over-hardening. Once chilled, the chocolate should feel firm to the touch but not so hard that it cracks. This creates a sturdy shell that holds the filling without leaking.

Crafting the Vanilla Filling

The vanilla filling is the heart of these homemade treats, providing a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate. Be sure to soften the butter adequately before mixing; it should be at room temperature for easy creaming. This will help create a smooth filling that incorporates the powdered sugar evenly. If the filling seems too dry or crumbly, adding milk a tablespoon at a time will help achieve the desired creamy texture. Aim for a spreadable but not runny consistency.

For an added twist, consider infusing your filling with flavors like almond extract or a hint of sea salt. A pinch of salt can elevate the sweetness and balance the flavors beautifully. Additionally, if you're looking for a vegan option, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free milk alternative. This allows everyone to enjoy the treat while accommodating different dietary preferences.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Homemade Reese’s Cups are set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, making them a convenient sweet treat to have on hand. To maintain the best texture, avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods. If you want to make these ahead of time, they also freeze well! Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best taste.

For a fun serving idea, consider drizzling some melted chocolate or white chocolate over the top for added flair. You could also sprinkle crushed nuts or a touch of sea salt before the final chocolate layer sets for a gourmet touch. Whether serving at a gathering or enjoying solo, these cups can be presented in a decorative box or tray for that homemade charm that everyone will appreciate.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cups

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Vanilla Filling

1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk (as needed)

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth. Stir constantly to avoid burning.

Prepare the Molds

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Pour a tablespoon of melted chocolate into each liner, spreading it up the sides slightly. Chill the tin in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Assemble the Cups

Take the chilled chocolate cups out of the fridge. Spoon the vanilla filling into each cup, then cover with another tablespoon of melted chocolate. Smooth the tops and return to the fridge for 20 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once set, carefully peel the cupcake liners off and enjoy your homemade Reese’s Cups with vanilla filling!

Pro Tips

For a unique flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before chilling. It enhances the taste beautifully!

Adjusting Sweetness and Flavor

One of the joys of making Homemade Reese’s Cups is the ability to adjust the sweetness to your preference. If you find that the filling is too sweet for your taste, reduce the powdered sugar by 1/4 cup or add a splash more vanilla extract for a deeper flavor. Alternatively, you can opt for dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a more intense flavor profile, balancing out the sweetness of the filling beautifully.

You can also experiment with different flavored fillings. Try adding cocoa powder for a chocolate vanilla twist or even peanut butter for a nutty alternative that still captures that classic Reese's essence. Mixing in a bit of crushed graham crackers can also mimic a s'mores flavor if you're feeling adventurous!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the chocolate cracking when you peel off the liners, it may be due to not allowing the chocolate to set properly after the initial chill. Ensure your chocolate is adequately tempered and not too cold when adding the filling. If you notice the filling seeping out, it might be too runny; try using less milk in your filling mix to achieve a thicker consistency before topping with chocolate.

Another common issue is chocolate clumping when melted. This can happen if the chocolate overheats. Always stir continuously while melting over low heat and remove it from heat once it’s nearly fully melted. A few small lumps will continue to melt with residual heat. For any stubborn lumps, another quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave can smooth everything out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, dark chocolate will work beautifully and give a richer flavor.

→ How long do these cups last?

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

→ Can I substitute the filling with something else?

Absolutely! You can use nut butters, cream cheese, or even jam for different flavor profiles.

→ Is it necessary to use coconut oil?

Coconut oil helps to thin out the chocolate and give it a nice sheen, but you can skip it if you prefer.