Chocolate Peanut Butter Recipes: Sweet and Healthy Treats

By Candace Braun Zafirellis
Published 11/27/2025
Chocolate Peanut Butter Recipes: Sweet and Healthy Treats
Photo Credit: Adobe Stock
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Few flavor combinations are as universally loved as chocolate and peanut butter. The creamy richness of peanut butter pairs perfectly with the bittersweet taste of chocolate, creating a balance of salty and sweet that many of us find ourselves craving day after day. From candy cups to smoothies, chocolate peanut butter recipes work for desserts, snacks and even meals.

What makes this pairing even better is that it doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. Using natural peanut butter, dark chocolate, oats and other nutrient-rich ingredients, you can enjoy treats that are both delicious and better for you. These chocolate peanut butter recipes from our dietitians skip the excess sugar and unhealthy fats while still delivering this flavor classic.

Whether you’re in the mood for chocolate peanut butter balls, a smooth and creamy fudge, or a chocolate peanut butter cookie recipe, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this timeless combo. The recipes below offer healthier versions of classic sweets, so you can have the flavors you crave without the high calorie count.

Healthy Peanut Butter Cups
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
50 mins

This healthy peanut butter cups recipe uses just five ingredients and skips the processed candy fillers. With natural peanut butter and antioxidant-rich dark chocolate, these cups are a smarter way to enjoy a classic treat.

Heart Healthy Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
15 mins

A lighter take on a favorite fudge recipe, this healthier version blends cocoa, natural peanut butter and other heart healthy ingredients. With just 5 minutes of prep time, this peanut butter and chocolate fudge recipe is creamy and indulgent without weighing you down.

Heart Healthy Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Squares
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
30 mins

These chewy oat squares combine whole grains, peanut butter and dark chocolate into a simple make-ahead snack. This healthier twist on a peanut butter candy recipe is perfect for a lunchbox treat or kids’ party.

Heart Healthy Peanut Butter Protein Balls
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
30 mins

This no-bake healthy peanut butter balls recipe blends oats, protein powder and natural peanut butter for an energizing snack drizzled in chocolate. This easy recipe for chocolate peanut butter balls is the perfect protein boost before or after a workout.

Heart Healthy Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
45 mins

This holiday favorite is reimagined in a lighter way. The chocolate peanut butter cookie recipe swaps in heart-smart ingredients so you can enjoy the classic peanut butter base with its signature chocolate kiss on top.

Heart Healthy Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
10 mins

Blending banana, cocoa and peanut butter, this smoothie is like dessert in a glass. This peanut butter smoothie recipe makes for an energizing breakfast or post-workout snack.

Peanut Butter Truffles
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
120 mins

This peanut butter balls recipe uses just three simple ingredients: peanut butter, pretzels and dark chocolate. The result is a decadent chocolate peanut butter balls recipe that’s no-bake, lower in sodium, and perfect for parties or on-the-go snacking.

Heart Healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Quesadilla
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
30 mins

Craving chocolate and peanut butter for lunch? Then this recipe is for you! This creative recipe pairs whole wheat tortillas with thin-sliced banana, peanut butter, and dark chocolate chips, then warms them in a skillet to melt everything together. It’s a fun twist on dessert that also serves as lunch or a sweet and healthy snack.

Heart Healthy Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Ice Cream Popsicles
Photo Credit: Adobe Stock
10 mins

This recipe blends bananas, light coconut milk, natural peanut butter cocoa, and chocolate protein powder into creamy popsicles. The pops are easy to make (just blend and freeze), satisfy sweet cravings, and offer a protein-rich cool down after a heated workout or summertime swim.

Chocolate Peanut Butter FAQs

Why do chocolate and peanut butter taste so good together?

It’s all about balance. Chocolate brings a sweet, slightly bitter flavor while peanut butter adds saltiness and creaminess. Together, they hit multiple tastebuds at once, which makes the combo especially satisfying.

Are chocolate and peanut butter healthy together?

Yes — when you use natural peanut butter and dark chocolate. Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats, while dark chocolate offers antioxidants. Just keep an eye on portion sizes to enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.

What are some easy chocolate peanut butter snacks I can make?

Quick options include smoothies, no-bake protein balls, oat squares, or even a peanut butter chocolate quesadilla. These recipes come together in minutes and are much healthier than packaged candy.

Can I make chocolate peanut butter desserts ahead of time?

Definitely. Fudge, truffles, cookies and even homemade peanut butter cups can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for holidays or entertaining.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Recipes: The Ultimate Combination

From classic cookies to inventive quesadillas, these chocolate peanut butter recipes create comfort foods that are both deliciously sweet and healthy. Each dish shows how a beloved flavor combo can be transformed into snacks, desserts and drinks that fit right into a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, packing a school lunch, or just craving something sweet after dinner, these chocolate peanut butter recipes bring a little joy to everyday moments.

Here are more delicious dessert options to try:

Chocolate Desserts You’ll Fall in Love With

Our Best Low Calorie Peanut Butter Cookies

11 Recipes for Holiday Nuts: Healthy and Delicious

15 Heart Healthy Dessert Recipes to Enjoy on a Low Sugar Diet

Protein Packed Chocolate Snack Recipes

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