No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups (4 Ingredients)

These no-bake peanut butter oat cups are a quick, wholesome, and utterly satisfying treat made with just four simple ingredients. A creamy blend of peanut butter and oat flour forms the soft, nutritious base, topped with a glossy layer of melted chocolate. With no oven time and minimal cleanup, these cups are ideal for busy weekdays, post-workout fuel, or guilt-free dessert cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a model of simplicity and flavor. You’ll appreciate how effortlessly it comes together, requiring only pantry staples and a few minutes of hands-on prep. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free (with certified oats), or just looking for a healthier snack option, these oat cups fit the bill. The combination of natural peanut butter, hearty oats, and a chocolatey finish makes each bite rich, satisfying, and energy-boosting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• peanut butter
• oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats)
• maple syrup
• chocolate chips
• Optional: coconut oil

Directions

1. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and maple syrup. Microwave for 40–60 seconds until warm and stir until smooth.
2. Gradually add the oat flour to the mixture, stirring well to form a thick, moldable dough. Adjust with additional peanut butter or syrup, 1 teaspoon at a time, if too dry.
3. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or use a silicone muffin pan for easy removal.
4. Divide the peanut butter-oat mixture evenly among the cups, pressing firmly with your fingers to create a flat base.
5. In a separate bowl, microwave the chocolate chips with the optional coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and fully melted.
6. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over each oat cup and smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
7. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles.
8. Refrigerate the cups for 2–3 hours or until fully set.
9. Once firm, remove from the pan and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per cup

Variations

• Nut-free version: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini in place of peanut butter.
• Lower sugar: Reduce the maple syrup slightly or use sugar-free syrup alternatives.
• Protein boost: Mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder with the oat flour.
• Crunchy texture: Add chopped nuts, seeds, or crispy rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture.
• Double chocolate: Stir cocoa powder into the oat mixture for an extra chocolatey base.

Storage/reheating

Store the finished cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before eating. These cups are meant to be enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

Can I use rolled oats instead of oat flour?

Yes, simply blend rolled oats in a food processor until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency.

Is there a substitute for maple syrup?

You can use honey or agave syrup, though the flavor profile will slightly change.

Can I make these in a different mold?

Yes, silicone ice cube trays or mini tart pans also work well for smaller servings.

Are these cups vegan?

They are vegan if you use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your maple syrup is pure.

Can I add mix-ins to the peanut butter layer?

Absolutely. Chia seeds, flax meal, or mini chocolate chips make great additions.

What if my mixture is too dry?

Add more peanut butter or maple syrup in small increments until the texture is pliable.

Do I have to use coconut oil with the chocolate?

No, it’s optional. Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and creates a glossy finish.

Can kids help make this recipe?

Yes, this is a kid-friendly recipe perfect for supervised kitchen fun—no sharp tools or heat beyond the microwave.

How do I keep the chocolate layer from cracking?

Allow the chocolate to set slowly in the fridge and avoid overfilling the cups to prevent breakage.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats or oat flour.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups are a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can produce a delightful, nutritious treat. Whether you’re prepping snacks for the week or satisfying a quick sweet craving, these cups provide the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and convenience. Keep a batch in your fridge or freezer and enjoy a wholesome bite anytime you need a delicious energy boost.

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