Looking for an easy, no-bake treat that’s rich, satisfying, and secretly nourishing? These Peanut Butter Oat Cups are your answer. Made with just five everyday ingredients, these layered snacks combine a soft, chewy peanut butter oat base with a smooth chocolate topping — all without needing an oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required
- 5 basic ingredients — pantry-friendly
- Naturally gluten-free & vegan
- Ready in just 10 minutes of hands-on time
- Perfect for meal prep, snacking, or dessert trays
Ingredients
🥜 Peanut Butter Oat Base
- 1½ cups peanut butter
- 1½ cups oat flour (made from rolled oats in a food processor)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
🍫 Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
✨ Optional Toppings
- Flaky sea salt
- Mini chocolate chips
- Sprinkles
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Base
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
- 1½ cups peanut butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- Microwave for 40–60 seconds until warm and stirrable.
- Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
🌾 Step 2: Add the Oat Flour
- Gradually add in 1½ cups oat flour, stirring with a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon.
- The mixture should become very thick and dough-like. Switch to a stand mixer if needed.
- If too dry, add 1 teaspoon of extra peanut butter or maple syrup. For added softness, fold in ¼–⅓ cup pumpkin puree (optional).
🧁 Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners, or use a silicone muffin pan for easy release.
- Divide the peanut butter oat mixture evenly across the cups.
- Press the mixture firmly into each cup to create a level base, leaving a shallow dip in the center for the topping.
🍫 Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
- In a clean microwave-safe bowl, combine:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional for shine)
- Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.
🥄 Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
- Spoon melted chocolate over each peanut butter base, smoothing the top with the back of the spoon.
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with your favorite toppings (flaky sea salt, sprinkles, or mini chips).
❄️ Step 6: Set and Serve
- Place the tray in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours, or until completely firm.
- Once set, remove the cups from the liners and enjoy immediately or store for later.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use natural peanut butter stirred well before measuring.
- Make your own oat flour by blending rolled oats until fine — no need to buy pre-packaged.
- Allow cups to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before refrigerating to help chocolate set evenly without blooming.
- Use a cookie scoop for clean, uniform portions.
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Oat Cups are proof that indulgent and nourishing can coexist. They’re chewy, chocolatey, protein-packed, and endlessly customizable — no oven required. Whether it’s a quick dessert, an after-school snack, or a midday pick-me-up, these wholesome treats are guaranteed to satisfy.