Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Oats

Name: Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Oats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these homemade peanut butter cups with oats! There's something so satisfying about combining simple ingredients to create a sweet treat that's both indulgent and nutritious. The crunchy oats add an unexpected texture that elevates the classic peanut butter cup experience. It's the perfect remedy for a sweet tooth, whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert. My friends rave about them, and I find that making these at home allows me to control the sweetness and flavors. Trust me, they’re a game-changer!

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:22:14.515Z

When I first tried making peanut butter cups, I wanted to create a version that was both healthy and satisfying. I experimented with adding oats to the mix, and it turned out to be the best decision. The oats provide a lovely crunch and a bit of fiber that balances the creamy peanut butter.

Another tip I learned along the way is to make sure to chill the cups thoroughly before removing them from the molds. This helps them hold their shape, and they taste even better when served cold. I can never make enough of these at home!

        Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cups
        Decadent peanut butter flavor with a wholesome twist
Crispy oats that add satisfying texture
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or chocolate

      

Mastering the Perfect Chocolate Layer

When melting chocolate for your peanut butter cups, it's crucial to do so slowly to avoid burning. Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat the chocolate chips in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. This gradual process ensures the chocolate remains smooth and glossy, vital for that beautifully appealing layer over your cups. If you notice it thickening too much, a teaspoon of coconut oil can help thin out the consistency without affecting the flavor.

Alternatively, you can use a double boiler for melting chocolate, which allows for more precise temperature control. Place your bowl on top of a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir continuously until melted. This method may take a bit longer but prevents overheating, yielding a shinier final product that will impress anyone who gets a taste.

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The combination of creamy peanut butter and oats not only makes these cups nutritious but also adds a unique twist to the texture. The oats provide a chewy bite, enhancing the overall eating experience. You can opt for rolled oats for a heartier texture or quick oats for a finer consistency, depending on your preference. Either way, they bind beautifully with the peanut butter, making every bite satisfying.

Honey or maple syrup serves as a natural sweetener and helps to bind the ingredients together. If you prefer a low-sugar alternative, consider using a sugar-free syrup or even unsweetened applesauce. Just note that adjustments to the quantity may be needed, as these alternatives have different sweetness levels. Balancing the flavors will still give you that rich peanut butter taste while maintaining the cups' delightful texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Peanut Butter Cups Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Make sure to have everything ready for the next steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious peanut butter cups:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter, oats, honey (or maple syrup), cocoa powder, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.

Assemble the Cups

Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner, spreading it evenly. Add a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture on top, then cover with more melted chocolate.

Chill and Set

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to let the chocolate set completely before serving.

Your homemade peanut butter cups are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add toppings like crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for an extra special touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These peanut butter cups are perfect for making ahead of time! Once they’ve set, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, but I doubt they’ll last that long once you and your friends get to them. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just layer parchment paper between the cups to prevent sticking, and they will keep well for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cups, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes to soften slightly before serving. This way, you’ll have a delightful snack on hand whenever the craving strikes, and it’s a great way to avoid the last-minute dessert rush.

Customizing Your Peanut Butter Cups

One of the best parts about these peanut butter cups is how easily you can customize them to your taste. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate layer for an extra flavor boost. You can also mix in some crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the peanut butter mixture for added crunch. If you enjoy a more decadent treat, try drizzling caramel on top before the chocolate sets.

For a chocolatey twist, consider substituting half the cocoa powder with finely ground chocolate or using milk chocolate chips instead of dark. You might also experiment with different nut butters if you're feeling adventurous—almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can all lend unique flavors, making these cups uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture.

→ How do I store these peanut butter cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make them vegan?

Yes! Use maple syrup as the sweetener and check for vegan chocolate.

→ What if I don’t have a muffin tin?

You can use silicone molds or even ice cube trays as a substitute.