Introduction
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to express your love than with a delicious, homemade treat? These Reese’s Peanut Butter Valentines Hearts are the perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, making them an irresistible delight for anyone who has a sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking to impress your partner, surprise your kids, or treat yourself, these delightful hearts are sure to bring a smile to your face!
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Pink candy melts (optional for decoration)
- Heart-shaped silicone mold
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 hearts
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter. Whip them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, enveloping you with the inviting aroma of peanut butter.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until fully combined. You’ll notice the texture becoming beautifully sweet and velvety.
- Set your heart-shaped silicone mold on a baking sheet for added stability, making it easy to transport to the fridge later.
- Melt the milk chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until you’ve got a gorgeously smooth blend.
- Pour a layer of the melted chocolate into each heart cavity, ensuring that it coats the sides evenly, creating a delicious shell that’s just waiting to be filled.
- Using a spoon, gently push some chocolate up the sides of the mold to reinforce the shell. Chill the mold in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes until the chocolate is set to the perfect firmness.
- Once the chocolate firmed up nicely, remove the mold from the fridge and fill each chocolate shell with the peanut butter mixture, taking care to leave a little space at the top for sealing.
- Pour more melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter mixture to fully seal them, ensuring that each heart is generously coated and ready for its sweet reveal.
- Return the filled mold to the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully hardened, creating a delightful bite-sized treat.
- Once set, carefully pop the peanut butter hearts out of the mold. If you want to amp up the cuteness, melt some pink candy melts and drizzle them over the tops for a lovely finishing touch!
Notes or Tips
These hearts can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to get creative, feel free to add sprinkles or edible glitter on top for an extra festive flair! Also, while the pink candy melts are optional, they add a beautiful color contrast that can make your treats even more special.
Cooking Techniques
Don’t worry if you’re new to melting chocolate! Just remember to heat it slowly and stir frequently. If you find that the chocolate is too thick, a splash of vegetable oil will help achieve that luscious, pourable consistency you want for both the shell and sealing your hearts.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! If you love a bit of texture, crunchy peanut butter will work beautifully in this recipe.
What if I don’t have a heart-shaped mold?
No worries! You can use any silicone mold you have on hand or even a standard muffin tin – just adjust the proportions accordingly.
Conclusion
These Reese’s Peanut Butter Valentines Hearts are not just treats; they’re little bites of love that are perfect for sharing. With their rich, creamy filling and decadent chocolate shell, they’re guaranteed to be a Valentine’s Day hit. Whether you’re showering loved ones with affection or indulging in some sweet self-love, these hearts are a delightful way to celebrate this special occasion. Enjoy!