Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups : Irresistibly Easy and No-Bake

If you’re craving a rich, sweet treat that hits all the right notes of creamy, gooey, and chocolatey, these Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups will win your heart. A clever twist on Reese’s Mallow-Top Cups, this no-bake dessert features layers of semi-sweet chocolate, velvety peanut butter, and fluffy marshmallow crème—made right in your kitchen with just five ingredients.

Whether you’re prepping for the holidays, hosting a party, or just need a freezer-friendly snack, this simple treat satisfies every sweet tooth. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and fun to make—even with kids. Don’t miss our Nutter Butter Trifle Dessert Recipe if you love peanut butter-based creations.

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What Are Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups?

A Sweet Spin on Reese’s Classic

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups are the perfect marriage of homemade charm and candy-aisle nostalgia. Inspired by Reese’s Mallow-Top Peanut Butter Cups, these no-bake bites deliver all the layers you love—only fresher and creamier. With a base and top of melted chocolate encasing a duo of peanut butter and marshmallow, the flavor combo is truly addictive.

Why This Treat Has Gone Viral

There’s a reason food blogs and TikTok feeds are filled with variations of this recipe. First, it’s a no-bake dessert that doesn’t skimp on indulgence. Second, it uses pantry staples you probably already have on hand. Most importantly, the end result is better than store-bought—more chocolate, more peanut butter, and a marshmallow center that’s irresistibly gooey.

Check out our No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles for another quick candy fix that doesn’t need an oven.

Perfect for All Occasions – From Holidays to Midnight Cravings

Because these marshmallow peanut butter cups are individually portioned, they’re perfect for gifting or party platters. You can dress them up for Valentine’s Day, add spooky toppers for Halloween, or make a double batch for your holiday cookie tray. They also freeze beautifully, meaning you can satisfy cravings anytime.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Rocky Road Candy Recipe for another chocolatey classic loaded with marshmallows.

Essential Ingredients for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

Choosing the Right Chocolate for Melting

The key to rich and glossy chocolate layers lies in your chocolate chip selection. For best results, use high-quality semi-sweet chips like Ghirardelli. Milk or dark chocolate works, too, but steer clear of budget chips—they often contain waxes and additives that resist melting smoothly. If you love layered chocolate desserts, don’t miss our Chocolate Lasagna Dessert Recipe.

Type of Chocolate	Flavor Profile	Best For
Semi-sweet (e.g., Ghirardelli)	Balanced sweet & rich	Traditional flavor lovers
Milk chocolate	Extra sweet & creamy	Kids and milk chocolate fans
Dark chocolate (60–70%)	Bold, intense chocolate	Adults or reduced sugar option

Peanut Butter Perfection: What Type Works Best?

For a perfectly smooth filling, use traditional peanut butter like Jif, Skippy, or Reese’s. Avoid natural peanut butter—it contains more oil and separates easily, which can make your cups greasy or cause the layers to slide. Want to explore more peanut butter recipes? Don’t miss our Classic Peanut Butter Cookies for a timeless baked treat.

Marshmallow Crème vs Fluff: What’s the Difference?

Both work just fine in this recipe. Marshmallow crème (like Jet-Puffed) is a bit stiffer, making it easier to scoop and layer. Marshmallow fluff tends to be lighter and airier. Whichever you use, just be sure to freeze the layer properly before adding the final chocolate topping to keep the layers neat.

Equipment and Prep Tips Before You Begin

Tools You’ll Need for Success

You don’t need fancy tools—just a few basics:

• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Microwave-safe bowls
• Spoons or mini cookie scoop
• Handheld electric mixer

These help you move quickly and cleanly through the layering process.

Pro Prep Tips to Avoid Sticky Situations

Before you even melt your chocolate, line your muffin tin with cupcake liners. This makes removal easy and mess-free. Also, have all your ingredients measured and ready before starting—things move fast once the chocolate is melted. Be sure to freeze each layer before adding the next to prevent the fillings from blending into each other.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

Melting and Molding the Chocolate Shell

Start by melting ¾ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth—this should take about 1½ to 2 minutes depending on your microwave.

Scoop about ½ tablespoon of melted chocolate into each cupcake liner placed in a standard muffin tin. Spread the chocolate evenly on the bottom without letting it climb up the sides too much.

Pro Tip: Use two spoons—one to scoop, one to scrape—to get a clean transfer and a smooth layer.

Place the tray in the freezer for 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.

Making the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling

While the chocolate base chills, prepare your peanut butter filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

Use a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This combo gives the filling a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right firmness.

Scoop about 2 teaspoons of the peanut butter mix onto each chilled chocolate base. Gently press and spread it into an even layer, leaving a small gap around the edges so it doesn’t touch the cupcake liner.

Freeze again for 10 minutes.

Layering with Marshmallow Crème

Next, top each peanut butter layer with 1 teaspoon of marshmallow crème. Keep it centered for that signature layered look.

Tip: Lightly dampen your finger and press the crème down gently to flatten it. This trick prevents sticking and keeps your layers smooth.

Return the tray to the freezer for another 10 minutes. Freezing between layers is crucial—it ensures each component sets properly and keeps the textures clean.

Finishing with a Chocolate Top

Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips the same way as before.

Scoop enough melted chocolate over each cup to cover the marshmallow and peanut butter layers. Use the back of your spoon to gently spread the chocolate out to the edges of the liner, fully sealing in the filling.

Freeze for a final 10 minutes or until the chocolate is completely hardened. At this point, your cups should be solid, shiny, and easy to peel from the liners.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Keeping the Layers Clean and Distinct

The secret to picture-perfect peanut butter marshmallow cups lies in freezing each layer completely before adding the next. Rushing this step can cause your marshmallow to mix with the chocolate or your peanut butter to sink.

Another tip? Always use room-temperature butter and sifted powdered sugar in the filling to prevent lumps and clumps.

Looking for more freezer-friendly desserts? Don’t miss our No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe.

Storage Tips: Fridge or Freezer?

These treats keep incredibly well:

Storage Method	How Long They Last	Tips
Fridge	Up to 2 weeks	Store in airtight container
Freezer	Up to 2 months	Thaw in fridge before serving

If storing for a party or gift-giving, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Easy Flavor Variations You’ll Love

Want to level up your peanut butter marshmallow cups?

• Add a crunch: Place a pretzel crisp or crushed graham cracker in the base before the peanut butter.
• Flavor twist: Use almond butter or cookie butter in place of peanut butter (same consistency is key).
• Holiday style: Mix in crushed peppermint, mini M&M’s, or drizzle with white chocolate for seasonal flair.

Discover great ideas like our Magic Brownie Cookies if you’re in the mood for something equally rich and festive.

FAQs About Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

Final Thoughts on These No-Bake Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cups are proof that simple ingredients can deliver irresistible results. With just 15 minutes of hands-on prep, you get a rich, gooey, chocolatey candy that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re making these for a dessert tray, gifting them during the holidays, or just indulging in an after-dinner treat, they’re bound to impress. No baking. No fuss. Just layer, freeze, and enjoy.

Don’t miss our Fireball Fudge Dessert Recipe for another bold, crowd-pleasing treat that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

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