Craving something creamy, nutty, and packed with protein? Peanut butter isn’t just for sandwiches—it’s the star of so many easy, healthy recipes! Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a cozy dessert, these 18 delicious ideas will keep your meals exciting (and your spoon sneaking back into the jar). Let’s dive into the yum!
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
This creamy, dreamy smoothie tastes like a milkshake but packs in protein and potassium—perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout refuel.
Ingredients:
- 1 large ripe banana (frozen for extra thickness)
- 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened almond)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4-5 ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add the banana, peanut butter, milk, yogurt, honey (if using), and vanilla extract to a blender.
- Blend on high for 30 seconds until smooth and creamy.
- Add ice cubes and blend again for 10–15 seconds until frothy and well-chilled.
- Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
The magic here? Frozen banana replaces ice cream for a luscious texture without the sugar crash. Tip: For a vegan version, swap yogurt for silken tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Healthy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with protein—perfect for a guilt-free snack or a lunchbox treat!
- 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional)
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup peanut butter, 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup oats, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt until combined. Fold in chocolate chips (if using).
- Scoop 1-tbsp portions onto the sheet, flatten slightly, and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set (centers will look soft).
- Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
The cookies stay extra tender thanks to the peanut butter’s natural oils—no butter or flour needed!
Tip: For crunchier cookies, bake for 12–14 minutes and let them cool completely on the pan.
Peanut Butter Protein Balls
These no-bake peanut butter protein balls are the perfect grab-and-go snack—packed with energy and ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, stir together 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/3 cup honey, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
- Add 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup ground flaxseed, 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, and 2 tbsp chia seeds. Mix until fully combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 1 tbsp each) and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill for 30 minutes in the fridge to firm up. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
The chia seeds add a subtle crunch, while the honey keeps these bites irresistibly chewy—no protein powder needed!
Tip: For a firmer texture, freeze the balls for 15 minutes before transferring to the fridge.
Peanut Butter and Apple Sandwiches
This sweet, crunchy, and creamy sandwich is a nostalgic twist on the classic PB&J—perfect for a quick lunch or an after-school snack.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices whole wheat bread (or your favorite sandwich bread)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 medium crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Lay out the bread slices and spread 1/4 cup peanut butter evenly on two slices.
- Arrange a single layer of apple slices over the peanut butter, slightly overlapping.
- Drizzle 1/2 tbsp honey and sprinkle 1/8 tsp cinnamon over the apples on each sandwich.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, press gently, and slice diagonally.
The contrast of crunchy apples against velvety peanut butter makes every bite irresistible—plus, the hint of cinnamon ties it all together.
Tip: For extra crunch, lightly toast the bread before assembling.
Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Mousse
This dreamy, no-bake mousse is so rich and creamy, you won’t believe it’s dairy-free—perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
- ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Scoop the solid coconut cream from the chilled can into a large bowl (discard the watery liquid or save for smoothies). Whip with a hand mixer on high for 2 minutes until fluffy.
- Add the peanut butter, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whip again for 1–2 minutes until fully combined and silky.
- Divide into 4 serving glasses and chill for at least 30 minutes to set. Top with chocolate shavings if desired.
The magic here? Whipping the coconut cream creates a luxuriously light texture, while the peanut butter adds a salty-sweet depth that balances the cocoa perfectly.
Tip: For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate between layers before chilling!
Peanut Butter Granola Bars
These chewy, nutty granola bars are packed with protein and just sweet enough to feel like a treat—no baking required!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and salt until combined.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey, stirring until smooth (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until fully coated. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared dish, using the back of a spoon to compact it evenly. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, then slice into bars.
The magic here? The flaxseed adds a subtle nuttiness and helps bind everything without overpowering the peanut butter. These bars hold their shape beautifully in lunchboxes, too!
Tip: For extra crunch, swap half the oats with puffed rice cereal.
Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates
These sweet and salty bites are the perfect no-bake treat—ready in minutes and packed with rich, creamy flavor.
Ingredients:
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
- 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips, melted
- 1 tbsp crushed roasted peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Slice each date lengthwise to open it like a book, but don’t cut all the way through.
- Stuff each date with 1 tsp peanut butter, then gently press to close.
- Sprinkle each stuffed date with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the dates and immediately sprinkle with crushed peanuts (if using).
- Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes until the chocolate sets.
The contrast of chewy dates, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy salt makes these irresistible—no one will guess they took just 15 minutes!
Tip: For a twist, swap peanut butter with almond butter and top with toasted coconut.
Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip
This dreamy dip is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy—great for dunking fruit, pretzels, or even drizzling over pancakes!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (whole or 2%)
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.
- Add the honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk again until silky and well blended.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld (or serve immediately for a softer texture).
The secret here? The tangy yogurt cuts through the richness of the peanut butter, making it craveably light yet indulgent.
Tip: For a fluffier texture, whip the dip with an electric mixer for 1 minute before serving.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Chia Pudding
This Peanut Butter and Jelly Chia Pudding is a nostalgic twist on the classic sandwich—creamy, sweet, and packed with protein for a breakfast or snack that feels like a treat.
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam (or jelly of choice)
- 2 tbsp chopped peanuts (optional, for topping)
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond milk, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Stir in chia seeds and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes. Whisk again to prevent clumping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until thickened.
- Before serving, layer the chia pudding with strawberry jam in glasses or bowls. Top with chopped peanuts if using.
The magic here? The chia pudding thickens into a custard-like texture while the jam swirls add bursts of fruity sweetness—no cooking required!
Tip: For a smoother consistency, blend the pudding mixture after soaking if you prefer less texture.
Healthy Peanut Butter Pancakes
These fluffy peanut butter pancakes pack protein and flavor without the guilt—perfect for a wholesome weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup whole wheat flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.
- In another bowl, mix 1 tbsp honey, 1 large egg, 1 cup almond milk, 1/4 cup peanut butter, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (small lumps are okay).
- Heat a skillet over medium-low and melt 1/2 tbsp coconut oil. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake, cooking 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on top. Flip and cook 1–2 minutes more until golden.
- Repeat with remaining batter, adding more coconut oil as needed.
The peanut butter melts into the batter, creating pockets of nutty richness in every bite. Serve with sliced bananas for extra sweetness!
Tip: For crisp edges, avoid pressing down on pancakes while cooking—let them rise naturally.
Peanut Butter Energy Bites
These no-bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites are the perfect grab-and-go snack—packed with protein, naturally sweet, and ready in just 10 minutes!
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- In a large bowl, mix the oats, peanut butter, honey, flaxseed, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 1 tbsp each) and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
The flaxseed adds a subtle nuttiness while keeping these bites gluten-free, and the honey binds everything together without refined sugar. Store extras in the fridge for a quick energy boost anytime!
Tip: For a crunchier texture, toast the oats in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes before mixing.
Peanut Butter Hummus
This creamy, nutty twist on classic hummus is a crowd-pleaser—perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on toast for a protein-packed snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp tahini
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2–3 tbsp cold water (as needed)
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, peanut butter, lemon juice, olive oil, tahini, garlic, cumin, and salt. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- With the processor running, drizzle in cold water, 1 tbsp at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency (about 2–3 minutes total).
- Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed, then transfer to a bowl. Drizzle with extra olive oil and a sprinkle of cumin before serving.
The peanut butter adds a subtle sweetness that balances the garlic and lemon, making this hummus irresistibly snackable. Serve with pretzels for a salty crunch!
Tip: For extra creaminess, peel the chickpeas by gently rubbing them between paper towels—it’s worth the effort!
Peanut Butter and Banana Ice Cream
This no-churn ice cream is creamy, dreamy, and packed with the classic combo of peanut butter and banana—no fancy equipment required!
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen overnight
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp chopped peanuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Add the frozen bananas to a food processor and blend for 1–2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until crumbly.
- Add 1/3 cup peanut butter, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tsp vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Blend again for 3–4 minutes, stopping to scrape the bowl, until completely smooth and creamy (it’ll look like soft-serve).
- Transfer to a loaf pan or airtight container, swirl in extra peanut butter if desired, and freeze for 1–2 hours until firm.
- Scoop and serve topped with chopped peanuts for crunch!
The magic here? Frozen bananas create a luscious base without dairy, while peanut butter adds richness—no ice cream maker needed.
Tip: For a chunkier texture, fold in mini chocolate chips before freezing.
Peanut Butter Avocado Toast
This creamy, crunchy toast is the ultimate mash-up of rich peanut butter and buttery avocado—a breakfast game-changer that’ll keep you full for hours.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices thick-cut whole-grain bread
- 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
- 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts
Instructions:
- Toast the bread until golden and crisp.
- In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until slightly chunky. Spread evenly over the toast.
- Drizzle 1 tbsp peanut butter per slice over the avocado, then drizzle with 1/2 tsp honey per slice.
- Sprinkle each toast with 1/8 tsp flaky sea salt, a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using), and 1/2 tbsp chopped peanuts.
The contrast of creamy avocado with the nutty crunch of peanuts and a hint of heat makes this toast anything but basic. It’s a flavor adventure in every bite!
Tip: For extra texture, lightly toast the chopped peanuts in a dry pan for 1–2 minutes before sprinkling.
Peanut Butter and Spinach Smoothie
This creamy, nutrient-packed smoothie is a sneaky way to get your greens in while satisfying your peanut butter cravings—no fancy ingredients required!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 ripe banana, frozen
- 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach, packed
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 4-5 ice cubes
Instructions
- Add almond milk, frozen banana, peanut butter, spinach, honey (if using), and vanilla extract to a blender.
- Blend on high for 30 seconds until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add ice cubes and blend again for 10–15 seconds until frothy and fully incorporated.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately!
The peanut butter masks the spinach perfectly, while the frozen banana gives it a milkshake-like thickness—ideal for a post-workout refuel or a quick breakfast.
Tip: For extra protein, add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder with the almond milk.
Peanut Butter Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Start your morning with this creamy, protein-packed bowl that feels like dessert but fuels you like a champ.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
- 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together peanut butter, honey, almond milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and warm (about 3 minutes).
- Add cooked quinoa to the saucepan, stirring until fully coated and heated through (2–3 minutes).
- Transfer to a bowl and top with blueberries and chopped peanuts.
The magic here? The quinoa soaks up the peanut butter sauce like oatmeal but keeps a satisfying chew.
Tip: For a meal-prep twist, mix the sauce and quinoa the night before—just reheat and add toppings in the morning!
Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate Bark
This irresistible bark combines creamy peanut butter and rich dark chocolate for a sweet-and-salty treat that’s dangerously easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (about 2 cups) dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (60-70% cacao)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1/3 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
Instructions:
- Prep the pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted (about 1.5 minutes total).
- Spread the base: Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Add the peanut butter: Drop small spoonfuls of peanut butter over the chocolate, then gently swirl it with a knife or toothpick.
- Top it off: Sprinkle the flaky sea salt and chopped peanuts evenly over the bark.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Break into pieces and serve.
The magic here is in the contrast—crunchy peanuts, silky chocolate, and that salty-sweet peanut butter ripple make every bite exciting.
Tip: For cleaner breaks, let the bark sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before cracking it.
Peanut Butter and Coconut Bliss Balls
These no-bake energy bites are the perfect sweet-and-savory pick-me-up, packed with creamy peanut butter and toasted coconut for a tropical twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, plus 2 tbsp for coating
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, stir together oats, peanut butter, honey, 1/4 cup shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls (about 18 total). If the mixture is too sticky, chill for 15 minutes first.
- Spread remaining 2 tbsp shredded coconut on a plate. Roll each ball in coconut to coat lightly.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
The toasted coconut adds a delicate crunch against the chewy oats, while the peanut butter keeps these bliss balls satisfyingly rich without being overly sweet.
Tip: For extra coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before mixing.
Conclusion
With 18 tasty and nutritious peanut butter recipes to choose from, there’s something here for every craving and occasion! Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack or a wholesome meal, these easy recipes are sure to delight. Don’t forget to let us know which one you loved most in the comments—and share this roundup with fellow peanut butter fans on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.