No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups are a quick and delicious snack or breakfast option that everyone will love. These bite-sized treats are packed with wholesome ingredients, providing a perfect balance of energy and indulgence. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a grab-and-go snack, these granola cups are a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Convenience: No oven required, making it perfect for any season.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Tailor the ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Kid-Friendly: A great option for school lunches or after-school snacks.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with natural, healthy components.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rolled oats
- Peanut butter (natural, creamy)
- Honey or maple syrup
- Mini chocolate chips
- Chia seeds (optional)
- Vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, mini chocolate chips, and chia seeds (if using).
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the peanut butter and honey together in 15-second intervals until warm and easy to mix.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the warm peanut butter mixture.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Scoop the mixture into a muffin tin lined with paper liners or lightly greased. Press the mixture firmly into each cup to ensure they hold their shape.
- Chill the muffin tin in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until the granola cups are firm.
- Remove the granola cups from the tin and store them in an airtight container.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 granola cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini in place of peanut butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup and ensure chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
- Fruity Twist: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the granola cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cups in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: These are meant to be eaten cold or at room temperature and do not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
2. How do I prevent the cups from crumbling?
Press the mixture firmly into the muffin tin and ensure you use enough sticky ingredients like peanut butter and honey.
3. Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds a delightful crunch.
4. Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re a healthy and kid-friendly snack. Just ensure there are no allergens for your child.
5. Can I skip the chocolate chips?
Yes, you can replace them with nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for a healthier alternative.
6. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, any nut or seed butter works well in this recipe.
7. How long do these last at room temperature?
They can be kept at room temperature for a day or two, but refrigeration is recommended for longer freshness.
8. Can I add spices like cinnamon?
Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, cozy flavor.
9. How do I make the cups easier to remove from the muffin tin?
Use paper liners or grease the tin well to prevent sticking.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles easily to make more servings.
Conclusion
No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups are a delightful and nutritious treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these cups are endlessly versatile. Customize them to your liking and keep a batch on hand for a healthy, homemade snack anytime!
PrintNo-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Cups are the perfect grab-and-go snack or treat! Made with wholesome ingredients, they’re simple to prepare, deliciously chewy, and naturally sweetened. Customize with your favorite mix-ins for a versatile and healthy snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 granola cups 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
Topping (Optional):
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
- Crushed peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and coconut oil.
- Microwave for 30–45 seconds until melted. Stir to combine.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, add the rolled oats, chia seeds (if using), and mini chocolate chips.
- Combine and Mix:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Add vanilla extract. Stir until all the oats are evenly coated.
- Shape into Cups:
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon the mixture into each liner, pressing down firmly with the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact the mixture.
- Set and Chill:
- Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the granola cups are firm.
- Add Toppings (Optional):
- Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peanuts if desired.
- Serve and Store:
- Remove from the liners and enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- You can add other mix-ins like dried fruit, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts for variety.
- These cups are freezer-friendly and can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.