For those following a ketogenic lifestyle or simply looking to reduce their sugar intake, these low-carb almond butter cups offer a delightful and guilt-free indulgence. These treats are simple to make, satisfyingly sweet, and incredibly addictive, making them the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Imagine creamy, rich chocolate cups filled with a luscious almond butter center, finished with a delicate sprinkle of coarse salt.
Why Almond Butter Cups?
If you're a fan of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, you'll find these almond butter cups to be a delicious alternative with their own unique flavor profile. This recipe uses sugar-free chocolate and almond butter, sweetened with a low-carb sweetener like Swerve, ensuring a treat that won't spike your blood sugar.
Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You'll only need a handful of ingredients:
- Sugar-free chocolate chips: These form the base and topping of the cups. Brands like Lily's or Bake Believe are excellent choices.
- Almond butter: Opt for creamy, natural almond butter with no added sugar or oils.
- Swerve confectioners (or other powdered sweetener): This sugar substitute provides the necessary sweetness without the carbs.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of both the chocolate and almond butter.
- Coconut oil: Adds a smooth texture and helps the chocolate to melt evenly.
- Water: A small amount helps to create a glossy chocolate mixture.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Maple syrup: My favorite sticky sweetener to pair with almond butter.
Equipment
- Muffin pan (standard or mini)
- Baking cups (paper or silicone liners) or silicone molds
- Small mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here's how to create these delectable keto almond butter cups:
- Prepare the Almond Butter Filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, vanilla extract, sweetener, and salt. Stir well with a spoon until everything is fully incorporated. If your almond butter is particularly oily, be mindful of adding too much of the oil to the mixture. Set the filling aside. It’s nice to get this step out of the way first, that way when it’s time to assemble the cups, the filling is ready to go.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the chocolate baking chips, whisking constantly to prevent burning. As the chocolate melts, whisk in the vanilla extract, sweetener, coconut oil, and water. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is completely melted, the ingredients are well incorporated, and a cohesive, glossy chocolate mixture forms.
- Assemble the Cups: Line a muffin pan with six standard-sized baking cups. I would not recommend assembling the cups directly in the muffin pan without a liner. Even if you oil the pan, it will still be difficult to get the almond butter cups to release. While the chocolate is still hot, pour a small portion into the bottom of each of the baking cups. Allow it to flatten and settle in the bottom. Place an even portion of the almond butter filling on top of the chocolate layer in each cup. Use the remaining chocolate mixture in the saucepan to pour into each cup and cover the almond butter filling.
- Chill and Set: Place the muffin pan in the refrigerator to set for approximately one hour, or until the cups are firm.
Variations and Tips
- Nut Butter Options: While this recipe focuses on almond butter, you can easily substitute it with peanut butter, macadamia nut butter, or any other nut butter you prefer. Just be sure to choose a variety without added sugar or unhealthy oils.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed.
- Chocolate Preference: Dark chocolate chips offer a richer, less sweet flavor, but you can use any sugar-free chocolate chips you enjoy.
- Molds: Silicone molds work best, like this mini-muffin silicone pan.
- Add a Chocolate Base Layer: For more chocolate flavor, add a thin layer onto the paper liners, followed by the almond butter, and top with the remaining chocolate. I know it’s an extra step, but it’s totally worth it.
- Storage: Store the cups in the fridge to keep them from melting. If you want to store them long-term, place them in an air-tight container in the freezer. Move them to the fridge when you are ready to consume them.
- Sandwich the chocolate: For more chocolate flavor, add a thin layer onto the paper liners, followed by the almond butter, and top with the remaining chocolate. I know it’s an extra step, but it’s totally worth it.
- Add Flaky Sea Salt: Top with flaky sea salt.
Healthier Indulgence
These almond butter cups are not only delicious but also offer several health benefits:
Read also: Decadent Keto Brownies
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Perfect for those following a ketogenic diet or watching their carbohydrate intake.
- Sugar-Free: Made with sugar substitutes, avoiding the negative effects of refined sugar.
- Healthy Fats: Almond butter provides healthy fats and nutrients.
- Customizable: You can adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and available ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these keto almond butter cups as a:
- Dessert after a meal
- Afternoon snack
- Sweet treat to satisfy cravings
- Homemade gift for friends and family
A Family Favorite
These almond butter cups are sure to become a family favorite. They are rich and fudgy with the perfect balance of almond and chocolate. Plus, they require just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Read also: Delicious Weight Loss with Almond Butter
Read also: Is Almond Milk Low FODMAP?