I’ve actually already written a beautiful recipe for Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies here if you love peanut butter recipes.
I love no-bake recipes because they’re less of a hassle.
There’s something absolutely magical about the combo of peanut butter, oats, and chocolate, it just works.
These no-bake peanut butter oat cups come together with just 4 simple ingredients and a whole lotta flavor.
They’re perfect when you’re craving something sweet but still want a protein boost, and they store beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
They’ve got that rich chocolate topping, a soft, peanutty base, and a little chew from the oats. Plus, you don’t even need to turn on the oven. Win-win.
(I have included variations and substitutes at the end of the recipe in case you want dairy-free options or want to make different variations)
It satisfies my cravings!
But even plain, these cookies are like a cozy hug in cookie form, lol.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the oat mixture for extra flavor.
- You can mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips into the oat base for double chocolate goodness.
- Swap peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different twist.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a lower-sugar version or try sugar-free chocolate chips like Lily’s Baking Chips.
- Want them sweeter? Use this maple syrup.
- For a crunchier version, try using crunchy peanut butter.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe!
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Oat Bars
Course: DessertDifficulty: Easy12
cups10
minutes25
minutesIngredients
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chunks)
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix the oats, peanut butter, and maple syrup until well combined. The mixture should feel sticky and thick, like cookie dough. Line a mini muffin tin with silicone or paper liners. Scoop about a tablespoon of the oat mixture into each cup and flatten it slightly to form the base. Place the tin in the freezer for 10 minutes while you prep the chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth and glossy. Remove the tin from the freezer and spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of melted chocolate over each oat cup. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out evenly across the top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you’d like an extra fancy touch.
- Pop the tray back into the freezer for another 15 minutes until the chocolate sets completely. Once they’re firm, transfer the cups to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to a week (or freeze for up to a month).
- I personally love these for tea time. It goes great with some lemon tea.
Variations and Substitutes:
Swap out oats for quinoa flakes or puffed rice cereal if you want a lighter texture.
You can use sunflower seed butter to make it nut-free.
Drizzle a little melted white chocolate on top for a layered look.
Use coconut oil with the chocolate if you want a softer top layer.
Add chia seeds to the oat mixture for an extra health boost.
Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead snack, an after-gym treat, or a dessert that doesn’t make you feel heavy, these peanut butter oat bars are here to deliver.
They’re a perfect balance of chewy, creamy, and chocolaty, with just the right amount of indulgence to make your taste buds happy.
Go ahead, make a batch (or three). You’ll want these on repeat in your freezer, trust me.
You Might Also Like:
- 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies – chewy, gluten-free cookies you can make in minutes.
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Balls – soft, high-protein bites perfect for post-workout or snack time.
- Cookie Dough Overnight Oats – a deliciously indulgent, ready-to-eat breakfast with peanut butter and chocolate vibes.
