When the afternoon slump hits and that craving for something sweet strikes, I find myself reaching for a special treat I can whip up in no time: Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups. Imagine vibrant green matcha paired with the warmth of roasted almond butter, all wrapped in a creamy, coconut embrace. That’s right—these little delights bring not just flavor but also a touch of luxury to your day without any of the guilt.
After being inundated with overpriced candy bars and uninspiring fast food, I decided to reclaim my snacking experience with a homemade twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, they’re completely customizable—choose honey or maple syrup for your sweetness, and feel free to make them vegan!
So, whether you’re gearing up for a cozy movie night or need an elegant treat to impress your friends at your next gathering, these Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups are your perfect go-to. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover just how effortless deliciousness can be!
Why are Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups so special?
Irresistible flavor awaits you with each bite, where the rich almond butter perfectly complements the unique nuttiness of matcha. Simple to make, you only need 30 minutes to whip up a batch, saving time without sacrificing quality. Customizable to fit your dietary needs, these cups can easily adapt to vegan preferences with just a simple swap. Creative presentation adds flair, making them an impressive treat for gatherings. Guilt-free indulgence is ensured by using wholesome ingredients, elevating your snacks from store-bought to homemade perfection!
Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Ingredients
Unlock the secret to these delightful treats with simple, wholesome ingredients!
For the Almond Butter Layer
• Honey – 3 tablespoons for natural sweetness; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Coconut oil – ¾ teaspoons to enhance creaminess; helps the almond butter blend smoothly.
• Creamy roasted almond butter – ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons brings a nutty richness to each bite.
• Kosher salt – ¼ teaspoon to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
For the Coconut Matcha Layer
• Unsweetened shredded coconut – 2.25 cups (215 g) for a tropical twist; this is key for the coconut flavor.
• Coconut oil, melted – 1 tablespoon adds richness and helps the mixture bind together.
• Granulated sugar – 1½ teaspoons for a touch of sweetness; coconut sugar makes a great alternative.
• High-quality matcha powder – ¾ teaspoons to infuse vibrant color and health benefits; it truly shines in these Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups!
• Pure vanilla extract – ¾ teaspoons for aromatic depth; a little goes a long way in enhancing flavor.
• Kosher salt – ¼ teaspoon to enhance all the sweet and nutty flavors.
For the Garnish
• Chopped toasted almonds – 3 tablespoons for a crunchy topping; this adds texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
How to Make Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups
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Prepare the Tray: Line a mini muffin tray with 16 paper liners, creating the perfect mold for your delightful bites.
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Mix the Almond Butter Filling: In a small bowl, combine honey (or maple syrup) with coconut oil. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until bubbling. Stir into almond butter until smooth, then freeze for 10-15 minutes.
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Blend the Coconut: Place the unsweetened shredded coconut in a high-powered blender or food processor. Blend on high for several minutes until it transforms into a creamy butter, which will serve as the base for your cups.
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Combine Ingredients: Add melted coconut oil, sugar, matcha powder, vanilla extract, and kosher salt to the blended coconut. Blend again until everything is completely combined and creamy.
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Layer the Cups: Spoon 1 teaspoon of the matcha coconut butter into each lined mini muffin tin. Add 1 teaspoon of the frozen almond butter filling, flattening it into a disc. Top with another teaspoon of matcha coconut butter.
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Garnish and Freeze: Sprinkle with chopped toasted almonds and freeze for 10-15 minutes until just firm. For a firmer texture, refrigerate, but be aware it might create ripples on top.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra matcha on top for a beautiful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups?
Elevate your snacking experience with a selection of delightful pairings that beautifully complement the vibrant flavors of these treats.
- Chai Latte: A warm, spiced drink that enhances the earthy notes of matcha, making it the perfect cozy companion.
- Fresh Fruits: Seasonal fruits like strawberries or mango add a refreshing twist, balancing the richness of the almond butter cups.
- Coconut Yogurt: Creamy and tart, it mirrors the coconut in the cups while adding a smoother texture to your snack.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of bittersweet chocolate enhances the sweetness while turning your treats into a gourmet dessert experience.
- Matcha Tea: For the true matcha lovers, sip on a cup of matcha tea to double down on those calming antioxidants in a harmonious way.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkle over yogurt or serve alongside for a crunchy texture that complements the soft almond bites beautifully.
- Vegan Ice Cream: Scoop a dish of coconut or vanilla ice cream beside your cups to create a dessert extravaganza that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Make Ahead Options
These Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the almond butter filling and matcha coconut butter up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix each component according to the recipe, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps their flavors fresh and prevents the almond butter from hardening too much. When you’re ready to put it all together, layer the ingredients in your mini muffin tins and freeze as instructed. This way, you’ll have delectable treats ready to impress your friends or family in no time—just as delicious and perfectly set, all while saving precious time on hectic days!
Helpful Tricks for Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups
Perfect Proportions: Always measure your ingredients accurately, especially the almond butter and coconut, to ensure the right balance of flavors in your Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups.
Avoid Overheating: When melting coconut oil and honey, don’t exceed 30 seconds in the microwave to prevent losing their natural flavors and properties.
Blend Thoroughly: Ensure your shredded coconut is fully blended into a creamy butter; chunky textures can disrupt the smoothness of the final product.
Layering Technique: When layering, make sure to pack the almond butter disc well; this prevents it from breaking apart while you’re enjoying your delicious treats.
Garnishing Touch: For the best presentation, toast your almonds right before using them as a garnish; the warm, nutty aroma will add an irresistible allure to your Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups!
Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will take your Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups to the next level!
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Vegan: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a plant-based treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
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Nut-Free: Replace almond butter with sunflower butter to enjoy this recipe free from nuts without sacrificing creaminess.
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Extra Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans to the almond butter filling, giving your cups an enticing texture that’ll enhance every bite.
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Sweetener Swap: Use agave syrup in place of honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness that perfectly blends with the rich ingredients.
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More Matcha: Increase the matcha powder to 1 teaspoon per layer for a bolder flavor, giving your cups an exciting green tea kick.
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Coconut Cream: Top each cup with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an indulgent finish that adds an airy texture to your treats.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the almond butter filling for an unexpected and delightful heat.
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Berry Burst: Drop in mini chocolate chips or dried berries between layers to introduce a burst of sweetness, making it a playful surprise with every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups
Room Temperature: Keep the Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days, away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cooler temperature helps them retain their shape and creaminess without freezing them completely.
Freezer: These cups freeze beautifully! Place them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge before enjoying for best taste and texture.
Reheating: No need to reheat these tasty treats—enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the perfect sweet bite any time!
Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my matcha powder is high-quality?
Absolutely! High-quality matcha powder should be vibrant green in color, not brown or dull. When you whisk it, it should produce a frothy layer of bubbles, showing that it has been finely ground. If your matcha powder has a grassy or fresh scent, that’s a great sign! Look for products labeled “ceremonial grade” for the best flavor and quality.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! For optimal freshness, store your Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a chilled snack, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember, the colder they are, the firmer they’ll become, enhancing that delightful texture!
Can I freeze these Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups?
Yes, indeed—you can! To freeze, place your cups in a sealed container or a freezer bag. They will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply transfer them to the fridge for a few hours or let them sit at room temperature until they soften slightly; this way, you’ll experience their creamy texture and rich flavors at their best.
What should I do if my almond butter filling is too runny?
No worries! If your almond butter filling isn’t thick enough, it may just need more time in the freezer. Place it back in the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes until it firms up. Alternatively, try adding a little more almond butter to the mixture and mix until smooth; this can help achieve a thicker consistency that holds up nicely in your Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups.
Are these cups suitable for everyone, including people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you or someone who will be enjoying them has a nut allergy, you can use sunbutter or soy nut butter in place of almond butter. Just be sure to select ingredients that are specifically labeled as allergy-friendly. Always double-check product labels to avoid allergens, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delicious treats safely.
Irresistible Matcha Coconut Almond Butter Cups for Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a mini muffin tray with 16 paper liners.
- In a small bowl, combine honey (or maple syrup) with coconut oil. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until bubbling, then stir into almond butter until smooth.
- Place unsweetened shredded coconut in a blender or food processor and blend on high for several minutes until creamy.
- Add melted coconut oil, sugar, matcha powder, vanilla extract, and kosher salt to the blended coconut and blend again until combined.
- Spoon 1 teaspoon of matcha coconut butter into each lined mini muffin tin, add 1 teaspoon of the frozen almond butter filling, then top with another teaspoon of matcha coconut butter.
- Sprinkle with chopped toasted almonds and freeze for 10-15 minutes until firm.