If you’re looking for a treat that wraps up autumn’s richest flavors in a silky, chocolatey bite, these Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups are about to become your new obsession. Imagine everything you love about a classic peanut butter cup, but with a seasonal upgrade: silky dairy-free chocolate shells hugging a creamy, warmly-spiced pumpkin butter center sweetened with maple and perfumed with vanilla. Whether you’re searching for a unique homemade candy or a snack to impress guests, Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups deliver that perfect blend of rich, cozy indulgence and chocolate bliss in every single bite.

Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples to create a treat that feels downright magical. Each ingredient in Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups is there for a reason, from infusing cozy autumn flavor to making that chocolate shell irresistibly smooth. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters:

Pumpkin puree: The luscious base for your pumpkin butter, bringing creaminess and that classic fall taste.
Vanilla bean powder (or vanilla extract): Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic depth and rounds out the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness with a hint of caramel, keeping things refined-sugar free and giving lovely undertones.
Cinnamon: A must for any pumpkin treat, cinnamon supplies a cozy warmth that makes each bite fragrant and comforting.
Nutmeg (or mace for AIP): Just a touch amps up the fall flavors, adding complexity and spice.
Dairy-free chocolate chips: Rich and smooth, they form the dreamy outer shell and keep the recipe suitable for most diets.
Coconut oil: Helps make the chocolate glossy, snappy, and oh-so-easy to melt and pour.
Salt: Just a pinch sharpens all the flavors, making the chocolate and pumpkin taste even more dynamic.

How to Make Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups

Step 1: Mix Up the Pumpkin Butter

Start by making your irresistibly creamy pumpkin butter filling. In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, vanilla bean powder (or extract), maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is smooth, glossy, and deeply aromatic—this spiced mixture is the heart of your Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups. Set it aside so the flavors can meld together while you get the chocolate ready.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Set up a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water) and pour in your dairy-free chocolate chips, coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Gently stir as everything melts together into a silky, pourable chocolate―the coconut oil ensures the chocolate stays luscious and shiny. Don’t rush this step; low, gentle heat prevents any burning or seizing that could ruin that dreamy texture.

Step 3: Fill the Molds

Grab your silicone candy cup mold—these flexible molds make popping out the cups a breeze. Pour chocolate in to fill each cup about halfway. Swirl the chocolate around if you want to coat the sides for an extra-thick shell. Then, dollop in about half a tablespoon (or more, depending on your mold size) of that spiced pumpkin butter right in the center of each cup. You want a generous layer, but still some room at the top for the chocolate cap!

Step 4: Top and Chill

Spoon more melted chocolate over the pumpkin butter, filling each mold to the top. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula for picture-perfect edges. Transfer the molds to your fridge and chill for at least one hour—this is when the Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups set up into their signature biteable shape. Once they’re firm, gently pop them out and get ready to taste autumn at its finest.

How to Serve Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups

Garnishes

For the ultimate wow-factor, you can sprinkle your Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups with a bit of flaky sea salt, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a few toasted pumpkin seeds on top before chilling. These touches add crunch, color, and a gourmet finish—take your pick, or try all three for a show-stopping platter!

Side Dishes

Serve your Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups with a mug of hot spiced chai, bold coffee, or creamy oat milk for the ultimate cozy snack. On a dessert board, they pair deliciously with crisp fall apples, roasted nuts, or some dried cherries for a bit of tart contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cups in festive paper liners, stack them in a glass jar tied with ribbon for gifting, or nestle them among other seasonal treats on a wooden platter. For parties, set them with tiny forks or make a “build your own” station with extra garnishes—these playful ideas turn your Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups into the star of any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any extras into an airtight container and store them in the fridge. The chocolate shell stays firm, and the pumpkin butter remains creamy and fresh for up to a week—if you can resist them that long! They make an easy grab-and-go treat whenever you need a little sweet autumn pick-me-up.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, these cups freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container (with parchment between layers to prevent sticking), pop them in the freezer, and they’ll keep for up to two months. Just thaw in the refrigerator for half an hour before serving so the centers are irresistibly creamy.

Reheating

While these are best enjoyed chilly or at room temperature, taking them out of the fridge five to ten minutes before serving lets the flavors blossom and the centers soften just enough. Avoid microwaving or heating them, which could melt the chocolate and compromise that snappy shell.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

You’ll want to stick with plain pumpkin puree for Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups, since pie filling already contains sugar and spices that could throw off the delicate balance of flavors. Use puree and control the spices and sweetness yourself for the perfect result!

What if I don’t have a silicone mold?

No problem! You can line a mini muffin tin with paper liners and follow the exact same steps. The cups will pop right out and keep their shape.

Are these treats vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use dairy-free chocolate chips and check your other ingredients, Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups are both vegan and gluten-free, making them friendly for a wide range of diets and perfect for sharing.

Can I swap the sweetener or spices?

Absolutely! Try honey or agave instead of maple syrup, and if cinnamon or nutmeg aren’t your thing, experiment with ginger, cloves, or even pumpkin pie spice for a different autumn twist.

How do I prevent chocolate from sticking to the mold?

Using a silicone mold is your best bet since they naturally release the candies easily. If you’re using a different type, a quick spritz of neutral oil or lining with paper cups works wonders for easy removal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about making your own sweet treats, and Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups deliver pure joy with every bite. They’re easy, crowd-pleasing, and bursting with seasonal charm—so gather your ingredients and give them a try. Trust me, your taste buds (and your friends!) will thank you.