Peanut Butter Oat Cups
If you are looking for a no bake treat that feels indulgent but is made with simple pantry ingredients, these Peanut Butter Oat Cups are a great choice. They combine hearty oats, creamy peanut butter, crunchy peanuts, and a smooth chocolate topping into perfectly portioned bites. They work as an afternoon snack, post workout boost, or even a healthier dessert option. Best of all, they require minimal prep and no oven time.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 cups
Ingredients
Oat Base
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup lightly salted peanuts (or unsalted)
1/3 cup honey
1 cup creamy peanut butter, divided
5 tablespoons melted coconut oil, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
Chocolate Topping
1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Line a standard 12 cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with coconut oil.
In a food processor, pulse the rolled oats until they resemble a coarse flour.
Add the peanuts and pulse again until finely chopped but still slightly textured.
Transfer the oat mixture to a mixing bowl. Stir in honey, ¾ cup of the peanut butter, 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and chia seeds if using. Mix until well combined.
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into each muffin cup. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create a compact base.
In a microwave safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the remaining 2 tablespoons coconut oil in 20 second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Stir the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter into the melted chocolate for a richer topping.
Spoon the chocolate mixture evenly over each oat base, smoothing the tops.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Once set, remove from the muffin tin and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips
Use natural peanut butter for a cleaner ingredient list, but stir well before measuring.
Press the base firmly so the cups hold together after chilling.
If the mixture feels dry, add 1 to 2 teaspoons warm water or extra honey.
For easier removal, use silicone muffin liners.
Toast the oats lightly beforehand for a deeper flavor.
Chill fully before serving to keep the chocolate topping firm.
If using unsalted peanuts, add a small pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
Melt chocolate gently to prevent burning.
Store in the fridge, especially in warm climates, to prevent softening.
Double the batch and freeze extras for longer storage.
Variations
Almond Butter Swap: Replace peanut butter with almond butter.
Protein Boost: Add 2 tablespoons vanilla protein powder to the oat base.
Crunchy Version: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
Dark Chocolate Top: Use 70 percent dark chocolate chips.
Coconut Lover: Stir shredded coconut into the oat mixture.
Fruit Twist: Add chopped dried cranberries or raisins.
Salted Caramel Style: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before chilling.
Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
Mini Cups: Use a mini muffin tin for bite size portions.
No Nut Version: Substitute sunflower seed butter and pumpkin seeds.
Q&A
Do I have to grind the oats?
Grinding helps create a firmer texture, but you can leave them whole for more chew.
Can I make these gluten free?
Yes, use certified gluten free rolled oats.
How long do they last?
Up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer.
Can I skip coconut oil?
It helps firm the cups, but butter can be used as a substitute.
Why are my cups crumbly?
The base may not have been pressed firmly enough or needs more binding.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, reduce honey slightly or use dark chocolate.
Are chia seeds necessary?
No, they add nutrition but are optional.
Can I use quick oats?
Yes, though the texture will be softer.
Do they need to stay refrigerated?
Yes, especially in warmer temperatures.
Can kids help make these?
Absolutely. It is a simple and safe no bake recipe.
Nutrition
(Approximate per cup)
Calories: 260–290
Protein: 6–8g
Fat: 18–20g
Carbohydrates: 22–25g
Fiber: 3–4g
Sugar: 12–14g
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Oat Cups are a simple, satisfying treat made with wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand. The combination of hearty oats, creamy peanut butter, crunchy peanuts, and a smooth chocolate topping delivers both texture and flavor in every bite. They are easy to customize, store well, and require no baking, making them perfect for busy days. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or dessert, these oat cups are sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.