If you’re craving a treat that perfectly balances earthy, nutty, and sweet flavors, you have to try this Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Recipe. These little bites of goodness combine the creamy richness of almond butter with the gentle, grassy notes of matcha and the tropical hint of shredded coconut, all wrapped in a luxurious dark chocolate shell. They’re delightfully satisfying, naturally sweetened, and offer a lovely twist on classic nut butter cups that will have you coming back for more. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your snack rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on a handful of simple ingredients that each play a key role in delivering that perfect blend of flavors and textures in your Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Recipe. From the almond butter’s creamy body to the bittersweet chocolate shell and that vibrant pop of green matcha, it all comes together effortlessly.
- Almond butter (1/2 cup): Choose smooth or crunchy based on your preference for texture—this is the creamy heart of the filling.
- Shredded unsweetened coconut (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle tropical flavor and a slight chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the almond butter.
- Honey or maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Honey brings floral sweetness while maple syrup keeps it vegan-friendly—both balance the bitterness of matcha.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor complexity, bringing warmth and aroma.
- Matcha powder (1 teaspoon): Your vibrant green star ingredient, giving a slight grassy, earthy note and an antioxidant boost.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to heighten all the flavors and keep them balanced.
- Dark chocolate chips (1 cup): 70% cocoa or higher recommended for that rich, slightly bitter finish that pairs wonderfully with the nutty filling.
- Coconut oil (1 tablespoon): Helps create a perfectly smooth and glossy chocolate coating that sets nicely.
- Sliced almonds (1 tablespoon, optional): For a crunchy topping that adds a bit of visual charm and an extra nutty kick.
How to Make Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining your creamy almond butter with shredded coconut, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, matcha powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Stir everything together until the matcha is fully blended in and you get a uniform, vibrant green mixture. This filling is the soul of your cups, so mix well for the best flavor.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Coating
Next, melt your dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth and glossy. Use a double boiler for gentle heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid burning the chocolate. Getting this silky coating just right ensures your almond butter filling gets the perfect chocolate hug.
Step 3: Prepare Molds and Add Base Chocolate
Line a mini muffin tin with paper cupcake liners to keep everything tidy and portable. Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate into each liner, creating a thin chocolate base. Pop the tray into the fridge or freezer for a few minutes so the chocolate can harden solid before the filling goes in.
Step 4: Add the Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Filling
Once the chocolate bases have set, add about one teaspoon of the matcha almond butter filling on top in each cup. Spread it evenly, making sure it doesn’t reach the edges so you’ll have a neat chocolate seal later on. This step makes sure every bite bursts with that creamy, green goodness.
Step 5: Top with More Chocolate and Optional Almonds
Cover the filling with another layer of your melted chocolate, completely sealing each cup. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a few sliced almonds on top before the chocolate has fully set. These will add a satisfying crunch and gorgeous finishing touch.
Step 6: Chill Until Firm
Place your tray back into the fridge or freezer for at least 30 minutes to fully harden the chocolate and firm up the filling. Patience here yields those perfectly set cups that hold together beautifully and slice cleanly if you want to share.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Remove your Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups from the liners and get ready to be delighted by this divine combination of flavors and textures. These sweet little treats are perfect to enjoy anytime you need a touch of indulgence with a wholesome twist.
How to Serve Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or a dusting of extra matcha powder on top can amp up the visual appeal and introduce complementary flavors. A light sea salt sprinkle is also stunning if you prefer a sweet-salty mix.
Side Dishes
Serve these cups alongside a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast, or pair them with fresh berries to brighten the palate. A cup of green tea or matcha latte completes the experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Place individual Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups in pretty mini cupcake liners or in a bamboo tray lined with parchment for an elegant party platter. You can also stack them in a mason jar as a thoughtful gift or party favor that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cups stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this helps maintain their shape and freshness for up to one week. Make sure they’re separated by parchment paper if stacking to avoid sticking together.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months and make for a quick, indulgent snack straight from the freezer.
Reheating
Because these are best enjoyed cool and firm, skip reheating. Instead, let frozen cups thaw in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before eating to get the perfect texture back.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy almond butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Crunchy almond butter adds delightful texture to the filling, making each bite even more interesting, though smooth results in a creamier consistency.
Is matcha powder necessary, or can I omit it?
While matcha is the key ingredient that gives these cups their signature flavor and color, you can skip it if needed. However, your cups will lose that unique, earthy brightness that matcha provides.
Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?
You can, but it will change the flavor profile considerably. Milk chocolate is sweeter and less intense, so the cups will be sweeter but less balanced compared to using rich dark chocolate.
Are these cups suitable for vegans?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free, these cups are completely vegan-friendly.
How do I prevent the chocolate from melting too quickly when eating?
These cups are best enjoyed chilled. Keep them refrigerated until right before serving, and avoid holding them too long in warm hands to prevent premature melting.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Recipe enough for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade snack that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether it’s for a treat to brighten your afternoon or a fun dessert to impress guests, these little cups never disappoint. Give it a whirl and watch them disappear fast!
Print
Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups, a perfect blend of creamy almond butter, vibrant matcha powder, and shredded coconut, all enveloped in rich dark chocolate. These no-bake treats offer a subtle sweetness with a hint of earthiness from the matcha, making them an elegant and nutritious snack for any time of the day.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1/2 cup almond butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- Pinch of salt
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, shredded coconut, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, matcha powder, and a pinch of salt until well mixed and the matcha is fully incorporated.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble the Cups – Base Layer: Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners and spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner. Refrigerate or freeze briefly to harden the chocolate base.
- Add the Filling: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the matcha coconut almond butter filling on top of the hardened chocolate base in each cup, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Chocolate: Cover the filling completely with more melted chocolate. Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added crunch before the chocolate sets.
- Chill to Set: Place the assembled cups in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes to solidify the chocolate and firm up the filling.
- Serve: Once fully set, remove the cups from the muffin tin and enjoy this luscious, creamy, and energizing treat.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the dark chocolate is dairy-free.
- Store these cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh for up to one week.
- Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or add-ins like dried fruit for variation.
- If you prefer a sweeter treat, adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup to the filling.
