Bourbon, America’s beloved whiskey, has a knack for surprising the taste buds. Crafted from a simple mix of grains, water, and yeast, it transforms through fermentation, distillation, and aging into a spirit bursting with complex flavors. From hints of caramel and vanilla to notes of oak and spice, bourbon can taste like a dessert all on its own. But what happens when you pair it with an actual sweet treat? The result is pure magic, especially when that treat is a peanut butter cup. This classic candy, with its creamy, salty peanut butter and rich chocolate coating, elevates bourbon to new heights, creating a pairing that’s as indulgent as it gets.
Chris Blatner, a bourbon expert and the mind behind Urban Bourbonist on Instagram, is a big fan of this combination. He believes bourbon doesn’t just sit alongside a dessert—it can make it better. “Bourbon isn’t just there to complement your sweet treat,” Blatner explains. “It can bring out flavors you didn’t even know were there.” When asked for a go-to pairing, he didn’t hesitate: peanut butter cups. “It’s one of the all-time classic pairings,” he says, and it’s easy to see why.
The magic of this duo lies in how the flavors work together. The peanut butter’s rich, fatty texture and subtle saltiness enhance the bourbon’s smooth, creamy qualities. Meanwhile, the chocolate coating ties into the whiskey’s natural oak, spice, and brown sugar notes. If the bourbon has nutty or cocoa-like undertones, the pairing becomes even more harmonious, creating a seamless blend of flavors that dance on the palate. It’s the kind of combination that makes you want to grab a glass and a candy bar immediately.
But not all peanut butter cups are created equal, and the type of chocolate matters just as much as the bourbon you choose. With options like milk, dark, or even white chocolate coating the peanut butter, each brings something different to the table. Blatner breaks it down: “Milk chocolate softens the bourbon, highlighting its sweeter notes like caramel and vanilla. Dark chocolate, on the other hand, plays up the whiskey’s spicier, oakier, and slightly bitter qualities, adding depth and contrast.” White chocolate? He’s less convinced. “It’s usually too sweet unless you’ve got a really spicy or high-proof bourbon to balance it out.”
Choosing the right peanut butter cup can make or break the experience, and Blatner has a favorite brand in mind—though it might not be the one you expect. While he acknowledges that Reese’s, the iconic peanut butter cup named after its creator, is a solid choice, he suggests going a different route for a truly memorable pairing. His pick? Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups paired with Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon. “Russell’s has these rich vanilla, toasted nut, and spice notes that go so well with the peanut butter,” Blatner says. “The higher proof holds its own against the slightly bitter dark chocolate, and Trader Joe’s cups aren’t overly sweet, so they don’t overpower the bourbon. It’s a near-perfect match.”
The beauty of this pairing lies in its balance. The peanut butter cup’s creamy, salty core complements the bourbon’s warmth, while the chocolate amplifies its complexity. Whether you’re sipping a smooth, sweet bourbon or a bold, spicy one, the right peanut butter cup can elevate the experience, turning a simple snack into a moment of indulgence. For those new to bourbon or hesitant about pairing it with sweets, this combination is an approachable entry point. It’s familiar, nostalgic, and downright delicious.
To get the most out of this pairing, Blatner recommends experimenting. Start with a classic like Reese’s if you’re craving something reliable, or venture into Trader Joe’s territory for a darker, more sophisticated twist. Try different bourbons, too—each one brings its own personality to the mix. A bourbon with nutty or cocoa notes might lean into the peanut butter cup’s flavors, while a spicier one could add an exciting contrast. The key is to sip slowly and savor the way the flavors unfold.
This pairing also shines because it’s so versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a casual gathering with friends, or even a fancy tasting event. You don’t need to be a bourbon expert to appreciate how well these two go together—just a willingness to try something new. And with so many peanut butter cup brands and bourbon varieties out there, the possibilities are endless. Whether you stick with Blatner’s Trader Joe’s and Russell’s Reserve combo or mix and match your own, you’re in for a treat.
For anyone looking to impress their guests or simply treat themselves, bourbon and peanut butter cups are a no-brainer. It’s a pairing that’s as approachable as it is sophisticated, offering a little something for everyone. So next time you’re pouring a glass of bourbon, skip the usual snacks and reach for a peanut butter cup instead. You might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy America’s whiskey.
