Peanut Butter Eggs

Bring a touch of springtime to your kitchen with these peanut butter eggs. Whether you want a homemade version of a favorite candy or a sweet treat to share, these eggs will satisfy the craving of every peanut butter lover. A rich and creamy peanut butter filling meets a smooth dark chocolate coating—what could be better? Plus, they’re easy to personalize with decorations for an extra-festive touch.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Eggs

• Creamy peanut butter: This makes the filling rich and smooth, while delivering that beloved peanut butter flavor. You can use almond butter for a different taste or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Butter: Softened butter adds a creamy texture and helps bind the filling. You could try margarine if you need a dairy-free option, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the sweet, nutty flavor of the peanut butter. For a twist, use almond extract instead for a more aromatic note.
• Confectioners’ sugar: This sugar softens the filling while maintaining a silky consistency. If you need a substitute, powdered coconut sugar can work, although it will add a bit of color and a caramel-like taste. Or, try your hand at making homemade powdered sugar.
• Graham cracker crumbs: In this recipe for homemade peanut butter eggs, graham crackers add a slight crunch and help the mixture hold together. Use gluten-free graham crackers or substitute finely crushed rice cereal for a gluten-free option.
• Dark chocolate chips: Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter alternative, or use white chocolate for a different look and flavor.
• Shortening: Shortening helps the chocolate set smoothly. You could substitute coconut oil, though it may add a faint coconut flavor.
• Confectioners’ sugar icing and sprinkles (optional): You could also use melted white chocolate or food coloring to customize your decorations.

Directions

Step 1: Make the peanut butter filling

Dan Roberts for Taste of Home

In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, butter and vanilla until blended.

Dan Roberts for Taste of Home

Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and graham cracker crumbs, mixing until everything is combined.

Dan Roberts for Taste of Home

Shape the mixture into 16 eggs and place them on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the eggs are firm.

Editor’s Tip: If your mixture feels too soft to shape, add a little more confectioners’ sugar until it firms up.

Step 2: Coat the eggs

Dan Roberts for Taste of Home

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and shortening together, stirring until smooth. Dip each peanut butter egg into the chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Return the eggs to the baking sheets and refrigerate for another 30 minutes until the chocolate is set.

Editor’s Tip: Placing the eggs on a fork and spooning the chocolate over them can make coating easier and less messy.

Step 3: Decorate

Dan Roberts for Taste of Home

If desired, decorate the eggs with chocolate drizzle, confectioners’ sugar icing or sprinkles. Let them stand until the icing is fully set. Store the eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Dan Roberts for Taste of Home

Peanut Butter Egg Variations

• Add more peanut butter: Skip or reduce the graham cracker crumbs and add more peanut butter for an extra-creamy filling.
• Use different coatings: Instead of dark chocolate, coat the eggs with milk chocolate or white chocolate to match your flavor preference.
• Make mini eggs: Instead of shaping into 16 larger eggs, make smaller, bite-sized versions for easy snacking.

How to Store Peanut Butter Eggs

Place the eggs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. If you prefer a softer filling, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Can you make this peanut butter eggs recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the peanut butter filling and shape the eggs up to a week in advance. Store them, uncoated, in an airtight container in the fridge. Then, dip them in chocolate and decorate the eggs the day of or the day before you plan on serving.

Peanut Butter Egg Tips

Dan Roberts for Taste of Home

What kind of peanut butter is best for this recipe?

Stick to creamy, unsweetened peanut butter for the best texture. Natural peanut butter can work, but make sure to stir it thoroughly before using.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate is a great substitute for a sweeter coating. Just follow the same melting instructions.

How do I get a smooth chocolate coating?

Make sure to stir in the shortening while melting the chocolate. This helps create a glossy, smooth coating that sets nicely.