Classic Chocolate Peanut Butter Valentine’s Hearts
These delightful chocolate peanut butter hearts are the perfect treat for Valentine's Day, featuring a creamy peanut butter filling coated in a rich chocolate shell.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Heart-shaped silicone molds (or hands)
- Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler)
- Fork or dipping tool
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating & Topping
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil optional
- Pinch sea salt optional, for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until well combined and smooth, then stir in vanilla extract until the mixture holds its shape.
Shape and Chill Hearts
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and firmly press small portions of peanut butter mixture into heart-shaped silicone molds or hand-shape them into 1-inch thick hearts.
- Place shaped hearts on the baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm for easy dipping.
Melt Chocolate Coating
- Combine chocolate chips and optional coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
Dip and Final Chill
- Remove chilled hearts, dip each into melted chocolate using a fork, and return to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Optionally, sprinkle with sea salt or sprinkles, then refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate is completely set.
Notes
Ensure peanut butter hearts are thoroughly chilled before dipping to prevent them from falling apart in the warm chocolate. If the chocolate becomes too thick while dipping, gently reheat it for a few seconds.