There’s something irresistible about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate—and this cocktail captures that magic in a glass. Creamy, sweet, and just a little bit indulgent, the Peanut Butter Cup cocktail is like dessert and a drink all at once. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re sipping it after dinner or mixing up a batch for friends, it’s simple to make and even easier to love.
Peanut Butter Cup
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Chilled martini glass or rocks glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) peanut butter liqueur
– 1 oz (30 ml) chocolate liqueur
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half)
– 1 oz (30 ml) vanilla vodka
– Ice
– Optional garnish: chocolate shavings or a mini peanut butter cup
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your martini or rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes to keep the drink cool longer.
- Fill your shaker. Add a handful of ice to a cocktail shaker. Pour in the peanut butter liqueur, chocolate liqueur, cream, and vanilla vodka.
- Shake it up. Shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds. You want the outside of the shaker to feel cold—that’s your sign it’s ready.
- Strain and serve. Strain the mixture into your chilled glass. For a little flair, garnish with chocolate shavings or perch a mini peanut butter cup on the rim.
Tips & Tricks
– If your drink feels too sweet, try cutting back on the cream or using a splash of milk instead.
– For an extra-smooth sip, fine-strain the cocktail to catch any ice shards or liqueur residue.
– Want a stronger peanut butter flavor? Add a tiny spoonful of creamy peanut butter to the shaker and shake extra well.
– Chill your glass ahead of time—it really does make a difference in how the drink tastes.
Substitutions
– Cream: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
– Vanilla vodka: Swap in plain vodka with a splash of vanilla extract, or try espresso vodka for a mocha twist.
– Peanut butter liqueur: If you can’t find it, mix peanut butter with a bit of simple syrup and vodka as a homemade alternative.
Storage
This cocktail is best served fresh, but if you’re prepping ahead, you can mix everything (except the cream) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, give it a good shake with cream and ice.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines as an after-dinner treat or a fun weekend indulgence. Pair it with:
– Chocolate desserts: Think brownies, chocolate torte, or chocolate mousse.
– Salted snacks: Salted peanuts, pretzels, or a nutty trail mix help balance the sweetness.
– Fresh fruit: Strawberries, bananas, or even sliced apples make a refreshing side.
Make-Ahead Note
Hosting a party? You can scale up the ingredients and pre-mix the cocktail (without ice or cream) in a pitcher. Just shake individual servings with cream and ice before pouring.
Fun Variations
Frozen Peanut Butter Cup
– Blend the ingredients with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a splash of milk. Serve in a tall glass with a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Peanut Butter Cup Martini
– Use chocolate vodka instead of chocolate liqueur, add a swirl of chocolate syrup in the glass, and garnish with a chocolate rim.
Spiked Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate
– Stir peanut butter and chocolate liqueurs into hot cocoa. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder—perfect for chilly nights.
Virgin Peanut Butter Cup
– Mix 1 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tbsp chocolate syrup, and 1 cup (240 ml) milk in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass. It’s creamy, sweet, and kid-friendly.
Peanut Butter Cup Q&A
Can I make it without alcohol?
Absolutely. Use chocolate syrup and a bit of peanut butter in milk for a mocktail version that’s just as tasty.
What if I’m allergic to peanuts?
Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead. Always check your ingredients for allergens.
Is it good for a party?
Yes! It’s a fun, sweet cocktail that’s easy to batch. Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher. Shake individual servings over ice for freshness.
How do I tone down the sweetness?
Use less chocolate liqueur or cream. You can also add a splash of milk or cold brew coffee to mellow things out.
When should I serve it?
It’s a great after-dinner drink, especially when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want a full dessert.
Can I store leftovers?
You can refrigerate the leftover mix (minus the ice) for up to a day. Shake it again before serving.
Why I Love It
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something sweet but still grown-up. It’s rich without being heavy, and that chocolate-peanut butter combo never fails. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, the Peanut Butter Cup cocktail is an easy win.
