No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe

Quick No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe for Sweet Bliss

These delightful no-bake peanut butter granola cups are about to become your newest obsession.

Sweet meets crunchy in a magical blend that screams simplicity and flavor.

Just imagine crafting a treat so delicious it practically makes itself.

Minimal ingredients and zero oven time mean you can whip up these little miracles in minutes.

Chocolate chips add a luxurious touch that takes these cups from good to absolutely irresistible.

Perfect for afternoon snacking or a quick breakfast boost, they’ll vanish faster than you can say “seconds, please!” Get ready to become the snack hero among everyone you know.

Everything You’ll Need For No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups

Wet Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy base that provides rich, nutty flavor and helps bind ingredients together. Natural or unsweetened varieties work best.
  • Honey, Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that add moisture and help ingredients stick. Choose pure, high-quality options for best taste.
  • Coconut Oil: Helps create a smooth texture and provides additional binding. Refined or unrefined options work well.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor and subtle sweetness. Pure vanilla extract recommended.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Rolled Oats: Primary structure of the granola cups. Old-fashioned oats provide the best texture and stability.
  • Chia Seeds: Optional nutritional boost with added texture. Adds omega-3 and fiber to the recipe.
  • Mini Chocolate Chips: Provides extra sweetness and texture. Dark or milk chocolate work equally well.
Toppings and Garnish:
  • Chocolate: Melted chocolate for drizzling. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate recommended.
  • Peanuts: Crushed peanuts for added crunch and flavor. Roasted and unsalted preferred.

How To Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups Step By Step

Step 1: Melt Creamy Base

Grab a microwave-safe bowl and toss in:
  • Peanut butter
  • Honey
  • Coconut oil

Zap in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until everything transforms into a silky smooth liquid. Whisk the mixture until perfectly blended.

Step 2: Combine Crunchy Elements

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and add:
  • Rolled oats
  • Chia seeds
  • Mini chocolate chips

Step 3: Create Magical Mixture

Pour the warm liquid over the dry ingredients. Splash in vanilla extract. Stir with enthusiasm until every single oat gets a delicious coating.

Step 4: Shape Tasty Treats

Line a muffin tin with paper cups. Scoop the mixture into each cup. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon or your fingertips. Pack it tight to create perfect cup shapes.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Slide the muffin tin into the refrigerator. Let the cups firm up for at least one hour. They’ll transform into solid, delightful treats.

Step 6: Add Gorgeous Garnishes

Optional but totally recommended:
  • Drizzle melted chocolate
  • Sprinkle crushed peanuts

Step 7: Serve and Preserve

Pop the granola cups out of their liners. Devour immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and fabulous for up to one week.

Pro Tip: These portable snacks are perfect for quick breakfasts, afternoon energy boosts, or late-night cravings!

Pro Tips For Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups

  • Customize Sweetness: Adjust honey or maple syrup levels to match your preferred sweetness without compromising the binding texture of the granola cups.
  • Boost Nutrition: Experiment with adding seeds like hemp or flaxseed to increase protein and omega-3 content while maintaining the recipe's delicious profile.
  • Prevent Crumbling: Press the mixture firmly into muffin liners to ensure compact, stable granola cups that hold together perfectly when served.
  • Explore Variations: Swap chocolate chips for dried fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes to create unique flavor combinations and keep the recipe exciting.
  • Make Them Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips to transform these granola cups into a plant-based friendly snack.

How To Store No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups For On-The-Go

  • Refrigerate Carefully: Store these delightful peanut butter granola cups in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between each cup to prevent sticking.
  • Preserve Freshness: Keep refrigerated for up to 7 days, maintaining their perfect texture and preventing chocolate from melting.
  • Freeze for Later: Wrap individual cups in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 3 months for an easy grab-and-go snack.
  • Thaw Gently: Remove frozen granola cups from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying their delicious crunch.

What To Pair With No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups

  • Brew Bold Coffee Companions: Pair these nutty granola cups with a rich, dark roast coffee that complements the peanut butter's deep, creamy flavor. The coffee's robust notes will cut through the sweetness and enhance the chocolate chips' richness.
  • Smoothie Sidekick Strategy: Blend a banana and almond milk smoothie to accompany these granola cups. The smooth, cool drink balances the dense, chewy texture of the granola, creating a refreshing breakfast or snack combination.
  • Milk Pairing Magic: Choose cold whole milk or a creamy alternative like oat milk to drink alongside these cups. The milk's coolness and subtle sweetness harmonize perfectly with the peanut butter and chocolate, making each bite more enjoyable.
  • Yogurt Fusion Approach: Top the granola cups with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess. The tangy yogurt creates a delightful contrast to the sweet and nutty granola, elevating the overall taste experience.

Tasty Add-Ins For No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups

  • Almond Butter Adventure: Swap peanut butter with creamy almond butter for a nutty alternative. Add sliced almonds on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.
  • Tropical Escape: Replace chocolate chips with dried coconut flakes and chopped macadamia nuts. Drizzle with white chocolate for a Hawaiian-inspired treat.
  • Berry Bliss Cups: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped dried strawberries. Sprinkle freeze-dried raspberry powder on top for a vibrant, tangy flavor profile.
  • Protein Power Boost: Incorporate a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder into the dry ingredients. This transforms the granola cups into a post-workout snack packed with extra nutrition.

Common Questions About No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups

  • Are these granola cups healthy?

These no-bake granola cups are packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, chia seeds, and peanut butter. They’re a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a wholesome snack option.

  • Can I make these granola cups without chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can skip the chocolate chips or substitute them with dried fruits, nuts, or seeds to customize the recipe to your liking. The base recipe is flexible and forgiving.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these?

Not at all! You’ll just need a microwave-safe bowl, a regular mixing bowl, a muffin tin, and paper liners. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require any fancy kitchen tools.

  • Are these suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

They can be easily adapted. Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version, and replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. Just check your specific ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Why No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups Are A Handy Snack

  • Craft Quick Energy Bites: These no-bake granola cups deliver instant energy with minimal effort, perfect for busy mornings or post-workout snacks.
  • Enjoy Texture Bliss: Experience a delightful crunch from oats and chocolate chips combined with smooth peanut butter, creating a satisfying mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like different nut butters, seeds, or chocolate types to match your taste preferences, making these cups incredibly versatile and personalized.
  • Master Hassle-Free Preparation: Whip up these treats in under 15 minutes without turning on the oven, making them an ideal recipe for novice cooks or anyone seeking quick, delicious snacks.
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No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe

No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe


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4.8 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet dreams come true with these no-bake peanut butter granola cups, blending crunchy oats and creamy peanut butter into irresistible bite-sized treats. Chocolate drizzle and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate this quick dessert, making you crave more with each delightful mouthful.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 ml) rolled oats
  • ½ cup (120 ml) natural peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) coconut oil

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) mini chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chia seeds or flaxseeds

Toppings (Optional):

  • Melted chocolate for drizzling
  • Crushed peanuts for garnish

Instructions

  1. Melt the peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short bursts until fully liquefied and smoothly blended.
  2. Transfer the rolled oats into a spacious mixing bowl, incorporating chia seeds and mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
  3. Pour the warm liquid mixture over the dry ingredients, introducing vanilla extract to enhance the overall taste profile. Thoroughly mix until every oat is evenly coated and glistening.
  4. Prepare a muffin tin by lining each compartment with paper liners, creating a neat foundation for the granola cups.
  5. Carefully distribute the prepared mixture into each liner, using firm pressure from a spoon or fingertips to compress and shape the contents, ensuring a compact and sturdy structure.
  6. Refrigerate the muffin tin for approximately one hour, allowing the granola cups to solidify and develop a consistent, firm texture.
  7. Optional: Elevate the presentation by drizzling melted chocolate across the surface and sprinkling crushed peanuts for an additional layer of crunch and visual appeal.
  8. Gently remove the granola cups from their paper liners, ready to be savored immediately or stored in a sealed container within the refrigerator for up to seven days.

Notes

  • Customize the sweetness by adjusting honey or maple syrup to suit personal taste preferences.
  • Ensure the wet ingredients are thoroughly mixed to create a consistent binding for the granola cups.
  • Use fresh, high-quality rolled oats for the best texture and crunch in your no-bake treats.
  • Replace peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for nut-free or allergy-friendly variations.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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