Peanut Butter Oat Cups


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

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
    • 1½ cups peanut butter
    • ¼ cup maple syrup
  2. Microwave for 40–60 seconds until warm and stirrable.
  3. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

🌾 Step 2: Add the Oat Flour

  1. Gradually add in 1½ cups oat flour, stirring with a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon.
  2. The mixture should become very thick and dough-like. Switch to a stand mixer if needed.
  3. 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

  1. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners, or use a silicone muffin pan for easy release.
  2. Divide the peanut butter oat mixture evenly across the cups.
  3. 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

  1. In a clean microwave-safe bowl, combine:
    • 1 cup chocolate chips
    • 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional for shine)
  2. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.

🥄 Step 5: Assemble and Decorate

  1. Spoon melted chocolate over each peanut butter base, smoothing the top with the back of the spoon.
  2. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with your favorite toppings (flaky sea salt, sprinkles, or mini chips).

❄️ Step 6: Set and Serve

  1. Place the tray in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours, or until completely firm.
  2. 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.