If you are a peanut butter lover looking for a delightful frozen treat, this Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe is going to become your new obsession. It perfectly balances creamy Greek yogurt with rich peanut butter and the irresistible crunch and sweetness of mini peanut butter cups. This dessert is not only delicious but also feels a bit healthier than typical ice cream, thanks to the protein-packed yogurt and natural sweeteners. It’s a refreshing, creamy, and slightly tangy indulgence that’s sure to bring joy on any warm day or whenever you need a little pick-me-up with a nostalgic twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create this dreamy Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and a lovely creamy color to your frozen dessert.
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base packed with protein that gives this frozen yogurt its smooth texture and slight tanginess.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds rich, nutty flavor and luscious creaminess that peanut butter fans will adore.
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup: Natural sweetness to gently balance the tang of yogurt without overpowering the peanut butter flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes that round out the taste.
- 1/2 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped: These delightful bits bring bursts of chocolate-peanut butter goodness and fun texture contrast.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A tiny pinch that heightens all the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients
Start by whisking together the plain Greek yogurt, creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt in a medium bowl. Make sure to mix until everything is smooth and fully combined. This is where all your flavors get to mingle and create that luscious, creamy base.
Step 2: Churn the Frozen Yogurt
Pour your mixture into an ice cream maker and let it churn according to your machine’s instructions, usually between 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening into a soft-serve consistency that’s perfect before the final touch.
Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter Cups
In the last two minutes of churning, sprinkle in the chopped mini peanut butter cups. This ensures they get evenly distributed throughout without melting completely, preserving that wonderful texture and surprise bites of chocolatey peanut butter.
Step 4: Freeze to Set
Once the churning is finished, transfer your frozen yogurt to a freezer-safe container and gently smooth the top. Pop it in the freezer for at least two hours to let it firm up nicely. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes so it’s scoopable and creamy.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe, think about adding a few toppings like chopped roasted peanuts for extra crunch, a drizzle of melted peanut butter, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Each garnish adds a new layer of texture or flavor that complements the base beautifully.
Side Dishes
This frozen yogurt pairs splendidly with fresh berries or a warm brownie for those who love a contrast between hot and cold. You can also serve it alongside a crisp cookie or granola for some satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, serve the frozen yogurt in individual glass jars or clear cups layered with chopped peanut butter cups and drizzle chocolate syrup on top. You can even create a peanut butter cup frozen yogurt parfait layered with fresh banana slices for an extra tasty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store your Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent it from absorbing other flavors. It’ll keep well for up to two weeks without losing its creamy texture.
Freezing
This frozen yogurt can be made ahead, so feel free to prepare your base and freeze it as directed. When you want to enjoy it, just take it out and let it soften slightly before scooping for the perfect creamy consistency.
Reheating
Unlike many baked goods, this frozen yogurt is best enjoyed chilled or slightly softened. Avoid microwaving. Instead, let it sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to soften naturally without compromising flavor or texture.
FAQs
Can I use a non-dairy yogurt for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt and replace honey with maple syrup. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Do I need an ice cream maker to make this frozen yogurt?
You don’t necessarily need an ice cream maker. Simply freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and stir it every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until creamy. It takes a bit more elbow grease but the result is still wonderful.
How sweet is this Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe?
This recipe strikes a natural balance of sweetness thanks to honey or maple syrup, but you can adjust the amount based on your preference. Start with less, and add more if you prefer it sweeter.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
While creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smooth texture, crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and peanut chunks to your frozen yogurt. It’s a fun variation if you want more nutty crunch.
What can I substitute if I don’t have mini peanut butter cups?
If you can’t find mini peanut butter cups, just chop up regular-size peanut butter cups or even use chocolate chips mixed with crushed peanuts for a similar effect.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a homemade dessert that’s both indulgent and a little wholesome, and this Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re treating yourself on a sunny afternoon or impressing friends with a creative frozen delight, this recipe is easy, fun, and absolutely delicious. Give it a try and prepare to fall head over heels for this creamy, peanut-buttery frozen treasure!
Print
Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Peanut Butter Cup Frozen Yogurt is a creamy, delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with the refreshing tang of Greek yogurt. Perfect as a healthy frozen treat, it’s sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup and features chunks of mini peanut butter cups for added indulgence. Easy to make at home with or without an ice cream maker, this recipe offers a balanced combination of protein and sweetness for a satisfying dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, ensuring an even flavor throughout.
- Churn Mixture: Transfer this smooth mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes. The frozen yogurt should reach a soft-serve consistency.
- Add Peanut Butter Cups: During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chopped mini peanut butter cups to mix them evenly into the frozen yogurt.
- Freeze to Firm: Once churning is complete, transfer the frozen yogurt into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 2 hours so the dessert can firm up.
- Serve: Before serving, let the frozen yogurt sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop and enjoy.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes until the texture is creamy and frozen.
