No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups
Let’s talk about snack magic. You know—the kind that takes just a few pantry staples, doesn’t need an oven, and somehow turns into something ridiculously delicious? That’s exactly what these No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups are. They’re chewy, chocolatey, and loaded with all the nutty, sweet goodness you love.
Think of these little cups like peanut butter cups’ healthier, oat-studded cousins. They’re great for after-school bites, midday fuel, or straight-from-the-fridge dessert moments. And the best part? No baking, no fuss, just pure peanut buttery perfection.
Trust me, once you pop one of these in your mouth, you’ll be reaching for another before you finish chewing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required! Just chill and enjoy
- Sweet, salty, chewy, and chocolatey in every bite
- Perfect for kids and grown-up snackers alike
- Great for make-ahead treats and meal prep
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins (hi there, coconut and chia seeds!)
Ingredients
For the Oat Cups
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping
- ½ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (for smoothness)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, but highly recommended!)

Instructions
Step 1: Make the Base
In a mixing bowl, stir together oats, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined and sticky. If it feels too dry, add another spoonful of peanut butter.
Step 2: Press into Cups
Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease a silicone muffin tray. Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of the oat mixture into each cup and press down firmly to create a solid base. Chill in the fridge while you melt the topping.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and silky.
Step 4: Top and Chill
Spoon a layer of melted chocolate over each oat cup and spread gently. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if using. Pop the tray into the fridge or freezer for 20–30 minutes until set.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Once firm, remove the cups from the tray and devour! Store in the fridge for up to 1 week—or the freezer for longer (if they last that long!).
Tips for Snack Success
- Use natural peanut butter for a more wholesome flavor
- Want crunch? Stir in chopped nuts or puffed rice
- Add a tablespoon of chia or flax seeds for extra fiber
- Love coconut? Mix in some shredded coconut to the base
FAQs
Can I make these nut-free?
Yep! Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Do I have to use muffin cups?
Not at all—press into a small square pan, chill, then cut into bars.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
You can, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats give the best chew!
Conclusion
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups are the snack your fridge didn’t know it needed. They’re easy, satisfying, and just the right mix of wholesome and indulgent. Perfect for powering through the day or sneaking as a late-night treat.
Print
No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (chill time included)
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups are chewy, satisfying, and perfect for a quick snack or healthy treat! Made with simple pantry staples like oats, peanut butter, and a touch of sweetness, these bite-sized cups are naturally gluten-free and perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 3/4 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners or use a silicone muffin mold.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt together peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and coconut oil until smooth and combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine oats with the warm peanut butter mixture. Stir until fully coated.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips if using.
- Scoop the mixture into muffin cups, pressing down firmly with the back of a spoon.
- Refrigerate for 1–2 hours or until fully set.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for allergy-friendly versions.
- Add chia seeds, flaxseed, or chopped nuts for an extra nutritional boost.
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a fancier finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: no-bake oat cups, peanut butter oat cups, healthy snacks, gluten free treats, no bake energy bites