Introduction

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Valentine’s Hearts are a delightful treat that perfectly balance creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re a sweet way to celebrate the season of love or any special occasion.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Valentine’s Heart Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter (room temperature)
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups powdered sugar
10-12 oz. chocolate, chopped into small pieces (half semi-sweet and half milk chocolate) or good quality candy coating

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8 x 8 inch dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Set aside.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together the peanut butter, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar dissolves. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully combined.
Step 3: Press the mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula or your palms to form about a ½ inch thick layer.
Step 4: Place the dish in the freezer until the mixture is firm enough to cut, about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Once firm, line a tray with parchment paper. Using a small heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out hearts and place them on the tray. Gather the leftover mixture, knead it gently, and cut out a few more hearts.
Step 6: Freeze the cut hearts until firm again.
Step 7: Melt the chocolate or candy coating in a microwave or double boiler. Line another tray with parchment paper.
Step 8: Using a fork, dip each heart into the melted chocolate to cover it completely. Gently tap the fork to remove excess chocolate and place the coated hearts on the lined tray.
Step 9: Refrigerate the chocolate-covered hearts until the chocolate has set.

Tips & Variations

Use candy coating instead of real chocolate if you prefer an easier dipping process and a smoother finish.
For a crunchy texture, add chopped peanuts to the peanut butter mixture before pressing it into the dish.
Work with only a few hearts at a time when dipping to keep the peanut butter mixture firm and easier to handle.
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle spicy twist.

Storage

Store these chocolate peanut butter hearts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, simply let them come to room temperature briefly for the best flavor and texture. Reheat chocolate slightly by warming in the fridge rather than at room temperature to prevent softening of the peanut butter filling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the hearts, but make sure it is well stirred and at room temperature for easier mixing.

What type of chocolate works best for coating?

Semi-sweet and milk chocolate both work well. Candy coating is a great alternative if you want a smooth, easy-to-handle finish without tempering chocolate.