Wowbutter Cups (Peanut-Free + Dairy-Free)

My kids have peanut allergies, and they've asked me before what peanut butter tastes like. I used to struggle to describe that rich, nutty flavor – until I discovered Wowbutter. Now I just tell them, "It tastes exactly like Wowbutter." That's how remarkably close this soy alternative comes to the real thing.

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward: melt chocolate chips with a bit of Wowbutter for added flavor, mix up a simple filling with more Wowbutter and powdered sugar, then layer everything in mini muffin cups. That dash of salt in both mixtures really makes the flavors pop.

Do I dare say these taste even BETTER than real peanut butter cups? I've had extended family members tell me they do and ask for the recipe. They're definitely proof that "free-from" doesn't mean "missing out" – sometimes it means discovering something even better.

Fair warning: you might want to make extras. They disappear quickly once word gets out.

Important Ingredients

• Wowbutter — The must-have ingredient! Wowbutter is by far the best-tasting peanut butter replacement I've discovered. I buy it by the six-pack on a regular basis.

• Chocolate Chips — You can use any chocolate chips you prefer for this recipe. If you need dairy-free chocolate chips, I like Whole Foods Market Dark Chocolate Baking Chunks.

• Sea Salt — A little sprinkle of sea salt goes a long way to elevating this recipe.

How to Make this Recipe

Melt the chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave chocolate chips for 1 minute at 20% power. Stir and repeat till fully melted. Always heat chocolate slowly at a low power or it will burn and sieze. Stir in 1/4 cup Wowbutter and a pinch of salt. Set aside.

Make the filling. In a separate bowl, microwave additional Wowbutter and vegan butter at a low power until melty and smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until a thick, scoopable consistency forms.

Assemble the cups. Line a mini muffin tin with paper wrappers. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the chocolate mixture into the bottom of each wrapper.

Add the filling. Place about 1/2 teaspoon of the Wowbutter filling on top of the chocolate layer. No need to refrigerate between layers.

Top with more chocolate. Spoon the remaining chocolate mixture over the filling to cover completely.

Chill to set. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Keep stored in the fridge for up to a week. At room temperature, the chocolate will soften, so serve chilled for best results.