Step 1

In a medium bowl, use a mixer to combine the peanut butter and 1/4 cup butter.

Step 2

Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and continue mixing until combined and smooth.

Step 3

Use your hands to shape 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture into a patty. Repeat with the remaining peanut butter mixture.

Step 4

Place the patties on a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 5

Melt the chocolate in a double boiler, or in the microwave in 30-second increments.

Step 6

Add 2 tablespoons butter to the chocolate, and stir until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 7

Spoon about 2 teaspoons of chocolate into the bottom of a cupcake liner.

Step 8

Place a chilled peanut butter patty on top of the chocolate.

Step 9

Spoon just enough chocolate on top to cover the patty. Repeat with the remaining chocolate and peanut butter patties.

Step 10

Allow the peanut butter cups to set for a couple of hours before removing the cupcake liner.