Introduction

These No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups are a quick and delicious treat that combines creamy peanut butter, wholesome oats, and rich chocolate. Perfect for a snack or a healthy dessert, they require no oven and come together with minimal effort.

A stack of five small round desserts sits on a wooden surface, each dessert with two clear layers: the bottom layer is a light tan, crumbly oat mixture with visible oat bits, and the top layer is a smooth, dark chocolate with uneven edges. Around the base of the stack, more of these desserts lie flat, showing the same two layers. Scattered nearby are loose oats and dark chocolate chips, adding texture to the scene. The background is a soft, white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 cups peanut butter
1.5 cups rolled oats (processed finely to make oat flour)
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 cup chocolate chips
1 tsp coconut oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the rolled oats in a high-speed blender or food processor until they form a fine oat flour.
Step 2: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and maple syrup. Microwave for 40-60 seconds, then stir thoroughly until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Gradually add the oat flour to the peanut butter mixture, stirring well. The mixture should be thick yet moldable; if too dry, add more maple syrup or peanut butter in small amounts. For extra moisture, you can add 1/4 to 1/3 cup pumpkin puree.
Step 4: Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners or use a silicone muffin pan. This helps with easy removal later. Mini muffin pans can also be used with liners.
Step 5: Evenly scoop the peanut butter oat mixture into each muffin cup and press down firmly with your fingers.
Step 6: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Step 7: Pour a layer of melted chocolate over each peanut butter cup and smooth the tops with the back of a spoon. Optionally, sprinkle flaky salt, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips on top before the chocolate sets.
Step 8: Refrigerate the cups for 2-3 hours to let them set completely. Once firm, carefully remove the cups from the muffin pan or liners.

Tips & Variations

Use natural or creamy peanut butter for the best texture and flavor.
Substitute the maple syrup with honey or agave syrup if preferred.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Try mixing in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the peanut butter mixture for added texture.
For a vegan version, ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Storage

Store the peanut butter oat cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Because these treats use fresh ingredients like maple syrup and are not baked, keeping them chilled prevents spoilage. Reheat slightly at room temperature before serving if desired, but they are best enjoyed cold.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a small round dessert held by a woman's hand, showing two layers: a thick, rough-textured light brown base that looks like nut or oat mixture, topped with a smooth, glossy dark chocolate layer. In the background, several more of these desserts are stacked and spread on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface, some with the chocolate layer facing up, creating a contrast in colors and textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats can work, but be sure to process them finely to achieve a smooth oat flour texture. Rolled oats yield the best consistency.

What can I do if the mixture is too dry?

If the mixture feels dry or crumbly, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or peanut butter at a time until it becomes thick but moldable. Pumpkin puree can also be added for more moisture.