Chocolate Hearts with Peanut Butter Centers

Chocolate Hearts with Peanut Butter Centers are a perfect indulgent treat, combining the rich taste of chocolate with a creamy, nutty filling. Here’s a simple recipe to make these delicious chocolates at home:

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Shell:

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate)
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil (to help with smooth melting and shine)

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

For Garnish (Optional):

• A pinch of sea salt
• Chopped peanuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:

• In a bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
• Chill the mixture in the fridge for about 15 minutes to firm up slightly. This will make it easier to form into small balls.

2. Melt the Chocolate:

• In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or vegetable oil) together. You can melt it using a double boiler method (placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth.

3. Form the Chocolate Hearts:

• If using a silicone heart-shaped mold, spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each cavity, using the back of a spoon to spread it around the edges. This forms the shell of the heart.
• Place the mold in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to set the chocolate layer.

4. Add the Peanut Butter Filling:

• Once the chocolate shell has hardened, scoop out small portions of the peanut butter mixture and roll them into balls (about 1 teaspoon in size).
• Place each peanut butter ball in the center of the chocolate molds.

5. Seal the Hearts:

• Spoon more melted chocolate over the peanut butter balls, covering them completely. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.
• Return the mold to the fridge for 20-30 minutes to allow the chocolates to fully set.

6. Unmold and Serve:

• Once set, carefully remove the chocolate hearts from the mold.
• Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or chopped peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
• Serve and enjoy your Chocolate Hearts with Peanut Butter Centers!

These treats are the perfect combination of creamy, nutty peanut butter and rich, smooth chocolate—great for Valentine’s Day, special occasions, or simply as a delicious homemade dessert!