If you’re craving something sweet, rich, and indulgent but don’t want to turn on the oven, these No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are just what you need. They deliver that perfect harmony of smooth chocolate and creamy peanut butter with a satisfying texture and minimal effort. Best of all, they’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
These homemade treats are inspired by the classic peanut butter cup, but with a fresher, cleaner twist. They’re free from artificial ingredients and preservatives, and because there’s no baking involved, they come together quickly and easily.
No bake desserts are a lifesaver when you need a quick fix for your sweet tooth or want to make a crowd-pleasing treat without heating up the house. These peanut butter cups are great for summer, after-school snacks, or last-minute gatherings. Keep a stash in your freezer for anytime cravings.
What makes these stand out is their rich, velvety chocolate layer that pairs beautifully with the smooth, lightly salted peanut butter filling. A touch of coconut oil helps the chocolate set with a glossy, firm finish, while a little maple syrup adds just the right amount of natural sweetness.
This recipe is not only delicious but also customizable. You can make them with almond butter, sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version, or use dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor. Add a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed peanuts on top for an extra pop of taste and texture.
They’re also naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free and vegan by choosing the right chocolate and sweetener. Perfect for those with dietary preferences or allergies.
Making these peanut butter cups is a fun kitchen activity that even kids can help with. There’s no baking, no hot pans, and no complicated steps—just mix, layer, chill, and enjoy. Plus, they look so pretty in their little liners, you’ll feel like a pro baker without the sweat.
You can make these in standard muffin tins, mini muffin tins, or even in silicone molds for bite-sized versions. They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for make-ahead treats or portion-controlled desserts.
These cups are also great for gifting. Package them in a pretty box or jar and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade treat for friends, teachers, or holiday baskets.
Despite how decadent they taste, you’ll feel good about eating them. They’re made with real ingredients—no mystery additives—and satisfy sweet cravings without the crash of overly sugary desserts.
They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or just keeping in your freezer for whenever you want a little something sweet. Everyone loves them, from kids to adults, and they disappear fast.
This recipe also scales well. Make a small batch just for yourself or double it to feed a crowd. Either way, it’s a simple process that yields an impressive result.
If you’re a fan of the classic chocolate-peanut butter combo, these no bake cups are going to become a staple in your treat rotation. They’re nostalgic, comforting, and just plain delicious.
So whether you’re looking for an easy dessert, a healthier sweet snack, or something to satisfy your chocolate craving without much fuss, these No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are your go-to recipe. You’ll never go back to store-bought again.
Servings
Serves: 12 cups
Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Peanut Butter Layer:
- 3/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in 30-second increments, stirring in between until smooth.
- Spoon 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of melted chocolate into each liner and spread to coat the bottom. Place the tray in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
- Meanwhile, in another bowl, mix peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Once the bottom chocolate layer is firm, spoon about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter mixture on top and gently spread.
- Top each cup with another 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of melted chocolate to cover the peanut butter layer completely.
- Freeze for another 20–25 minutes until fully set.
- Store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to eat.
Tips
- Use mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
- For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed peanuts on top before the final chill.
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These no bake peanut butter cups are the ultimate combination of easy, delicious, and satisfying. They’re quick to make, customizable to your taste, and made with real, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for anytime you want a sweet treat without the guilt—or the oven.
Summary
No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a simple, healthier take on the classic candy favorite. With rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and just a few pantry ingredients, you’ll have a freezer full of sweet, satisfying treats in under an hour.