No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups,

Bright, cheerful, and impossibly easy, these No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups are the answer to your snacking dreams. Imagine creamy, salty-sweet peanut butter nestled inside a sturdy, oat-packed granola shell, all made in under an hour—without ever turning on your oven. Whether you need a quick midday pick-me-up, a healthy bite to keep you fueled on-the-go, or a treat to tuck into lunchboxes, this recipe is a surefire hit. The best part? You’re likely to have everything you need already in your pantry!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups pulls its weight, adding to the satisfying crunch, nutty richness, and subtle sweetness that makes these so craveable. You can even play around with the optional toppings to make them just how you like.

• Rolled Oats: These are the backbone of each cup, creating a hearty base that holds everything together and brings wonderful texture.
• Peanut Butter: Opt for creamy for smooth cups, or swap in chunky for added crunch—either way, it’s the star of the show.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and acts as a natural glue to bind the oats.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla makes the flavors sing, giving that classic, comforting aroma.
• Salt: Just a pinch to make the other ingredients pop and balance out the sweetness.
• Chopped Nuts or Granola Clusters (optional): Scatter these on top for a touch of nutty crunch and eye-catching presentation.

How to Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups

Step 1: Mix the Granola Base

Start by grabbing a roomy bowl and combining the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and that essential pinch of salt. Mix everything together until you have a sticky, cohesive mixture. The oats should be well-coated and the mixture easy to press between your fingers. If your peanut butter is very thick or your oats seem a little dry, feel free to add a touch more honey or a splash of milk to bring it together.

Step 2: Shape into Cups

Scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture into each well of a mini muffin tin. Use your fingers (or the back of a spoon) to gently press the mixture down and up the sides, creating a mini cup with a little well in the center. This sets the stage for that dreamy peanut butter filling!

Step 3: Firm Up in the Freezer

Place the muffin tin in your freezer and let the cups chill for about 15 to 20 minutes. This quick blast of cold helps the mixture firm up, ensuring your cups hold their shape when filled.

Step 4: Fill with Creamy Peanut Butter

Once the granola cups feel set, take them out and add a small dollop of peanut butter right into the center of each. Let that creamy richness settle in—don’t be shy with the filling!

Step 5: Top and Set Again

For a little extra crunch and fun, sprinkle each cup with chopped nuts or a pinch of granola clusters. Then, return the pan to your fridge or freezer for another 15 minutes, giving the peanut butter and toppings a chance to firm up and work their magic.

Step 6: Release and Store

Gently pop the No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups from the tin (a butter knife run around the edge makes this easy). Transfer to an airtight container and keep them chilled in the fridge. You’ll find yourself grabbing one every time you need a little pick-me-up!

How to Serve No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups

Garnishes

Dress up your No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups just before serving with a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of extra melted peanut butter, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a handful of fresh berries. These simple touches elevate each cup and make them feel like a special treat.

Side Dishes

Pair your granola cups with a tall glass of cold milk, a frothy cappuccino, or a bowl of fresh fruit for a balanced snack or mini breakfast. They’re also lovely alongside a fruit and yogurt parfait or as a sweet finish to a lunchbox spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these petite treats on a tiered dessert platter, arrange them in pretty cupcake liners, or box them up for edible gift-giving. For parties or brunches, try arranging them around a bowl of yogurt dip or whipped cream for an interactive snack table that always gets rave reviews!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week. Their texture holds up beautifully, and the cool temperature keeps the peanut butter filling just the right amount of firm and creamy.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, freeze the cups in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cups can last up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature for a few minutes.

Reheating

No need to reheat these treats—they’re meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you’d like a slightly softer texture, leave them out of the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut butter for these granola cups?

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter all work beautifully as substitutions for peanut butter, giving the classic No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups a unique spin while keeping them just as delicious.

Are these granola cups gluten-free?

As long as you choose certified gluten-free oats, these No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups are a naturally gluten-free snack, perfect for those avoiding wheat without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, you can make vegan No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups by using maple syrup instead of honey and ensuring your chocolate or granola toppings are plant-based. They’re every bit as scrumptious!

What’s the best way to get the cups out of the muffin tin?

Let the cups chill thoroughly until they’re firm, then use a butter knife to gently loosen each one from the tin. Silicone muffin pans also work wonders for effortless release.

How long will these cups last?

When stored in the fridge in an airtight container, No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups will stay delicious for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage without compromising taste or texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to whip up a snack that’s as easy as it is irresistible, give these No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups a go! They’re the kind of treat that ticks every box: satisfying, wholesome, quick to make, and just plain fun. Your future self will thank you every time you open the fridge and spot a batch ready to grab.

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