Crispy Peanut Butter and Jelly Cups

Peanut Butter and Jelly Crisps in Cups

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Crisps are a sweet, crunchy delicacy that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with the sweetness of jelly, all in a convenient cup format. Perfect for a quick dessert, an energizing snack, or even as a delicious surprise for friends, these cups are easy to make and will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 cups

Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 cup jelly (preferably fruit)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, as preferred)
- 1/4 cup nuts (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt

Recipe History:
Peanut butter and jelly crisps are a classic combination inspired by the famous peanut butter and jelly sandwiches that gained popularity throughout the 20th century. This reinvented recipe brings a touch of modernity and elegance, perfect for serving at events or parties.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the muffin tin: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Line the muffin tin with parchment paper or grease it with a bit of coconut oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the peanut butter mixture:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Mix well with a spatula or a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth. It is important that all ingredients are well integrated to ensure a uniform texture.

3. Fill the cups:
- Using a spoon, take a portion of the peanut butter mixture and place it in each muffin cup. Fill each cup to about 2/3 full, making sure to evenly distribute the batter among all 12 cups.

4. Prepare the jelly:
- In a small bowl, place the chosen jelly and heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until it becomes a little more fluid.
- Mix the jelly well to smooth it out.

5. Add the jelly:
- Use a teaspoon to drizzle 1 teaspoon of jelly on top of each peanut butter cup.
- With a fork or a toothpick, gently swirl the jelly into the peanut butter, creating a marbled effect.

6. Finish with the topping:
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top of each cup, ensuring they are well distributed. These will add extra texture and crunch.

7. Freeze:
- Place the tray in the freezer for about 20 minutes or until the cups become firm and easy to remove.

8. Serve:
- Once they have set, you can remove the cups from the tray. They can be served immediately or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing the jelly: You can experiment with different types of jelly or jams – from raspberry to strawberry or even mixed berries for a more intense flavor.
- Variations: If you are looking for a healthier option, replace the maple syrup with honey or a natural sweetener alternative.
- For an intense flavor: Add a teaspoon of cocoa to the peanut butter mixture for a chocolate version.

Nutritional Benefits:
These crispy cups are not only delicious but also nutritious. Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, while the nuts provide essential minerals like magnesium and vitamin E. The jelly adds a touch of sweetness, but it's best to choose options with lower sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can the cups be frozen?
Yes, these cups can be frozen, but they store best in the fridge. If you freeze them, make sure to thaw them in the fridge to maintain texture.

2. Can I use other types of nut butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or even tahini for a different experience.

3. What drinks pair well with these cups?
These crisps pair perfectly with almond milk, iced coffee, or even a fresh fruit smoothie.

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Crisps are a simple yet flavorful dessert, ideal for any time of day. By experimenting with ingredients and variations, you can create a dessert that becomes a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy!