DIY: Reese's Peanut Butter Hearts (V-Day)

Raise your hand if you like chocolate!  Now raise your other hand if you like peanut butter!  Now spin in a circle if you love Reese's peanut butter cups!  Okay, you don't really have to spin in a circle, but can you gather that I'm a tad in love with this wonderful candy?  Do you know what's better than Reese's peanut butter cups?  Homemade ones.  Of course.  I made these last year for Easter (egg shaped), and I had a practice session for some Valentine's ones this last week.  They were all gone after dinner, so I'd say it was a success (we did a small batch).  

Below is the full recipe, but just remember that it is a 2:1 ratio for the powdered sugar and peanut butter, so you can really adapt this recipe to any size very easily.

Reese's Peanut Butter Hearts 

*4 cups powdered sugar

*2 cups peanut butter

*2-4 TBS milk

*2-3 cups chocolate chips

*1 TBS shortening (optional)

In a bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and peanut butter.  If you are doing a smaller batch, remember to keep the ratio of powdered sugar and peanut butter at about 2:1.  Combine as much as possible, and then add milk, 1 TBS at a time, until the mixture comes together smoothly.  Once smooth, roll into a ball, and then flatten using your hand or a rolling pin.

Using a small heart shaped cookie cutter, cut the dough out into little hearts.  Place hearts on a plate and set in the fridge for about 30 minutes so they are easier to work with.

Place chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds at a time until melted.  If you want, add the shortening to the chocolate mixture as you melt it.  The shortening will help the chocolate stay more firm on the outside once cooled.  I don't typically use it, but if I'm making them for someone else, I usually add it.

Dip peanut butter hearts in chocolate and place on a plate lined with wax paper.  Place in the fridge to set.

Break off any excess chocolate pieces around the edges and enjoy!  We also like just the peanut butter insides :)  So yummy!  

Eat them yourself or pass them out on Valentine's Day as a special treat!

See all my Valentine's Day activities, crafts, gifts, and projects HERE!