No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe

The Dreamiest No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe

Sweet and decadent no bake chocolate peanut butter pinwheels dance with rich, creamy flavors that promise pure indulgence.

These delightful treats blend smooth chocolate and nutty peanut butter in a simple, no-cook method.

Minimal ingredients create maximum satisfaction for dessert enthusiasts.

Each pinwheel swirls together classic flavors that melt in your mouth with delicate texture.

Chilled and sliced, these pinwheels offer a quick and elegant dessert option perfect for any occasion.

Chocolate and peanut butter lovers will absolutely adore this effortless recipe that delivers serious taste without turning on the oven.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.

  • How thin should I roll the peanut butter mixture?

Roll it to about 1/4 inch thickness for the best pinwheel texture and easy rolling.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these pinwheels?

No, just basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, parchment paper, and a knife are needed.

  • Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Why You’ll Like Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels

  • Whip Up with Ease: Perfect for novice bakers, this recipe requires minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients anyone can handle.
  • Zero Oven Drama: No baking needed means less hassle, quick preparation, and minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy home cooks.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Chocolate and peanut butter combination guarantees a universally loved dessert that appeals to kids and adults alike.
  • Versatile Party Snack: Excellent for potlucks, game nights, birthday parties, or casual gatherings where you want an impressive yet simple dessert.

What’s in No Bake Pinwheels

Base Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: A sweet ingredient that helps bind the peanut butter mixture together.
  • Peanut Butter: The primary flavor component that adds richness and nutty taste to the pinwheels.
  • Butter: Provides smoothness and helps create a creamy texture in the mixture.
Chocolate Coating:
  • Chocolate Chips, Coconut Oil: Creates a glossy and smooth chocolate layer that covers the peanut butter base.
Additional Ingredient:
  • Parchment Paper: Assists in rolling and shaping the pinwheels without sticking to the surface.

How to Make Pinwheel Cookies Easily

Step 1: Blend Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, whip together powdered sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter until the mixture becomes completely smooth and well-combined.

Use a hand mixer or wooden spoon to ensure no lumps remain.

Step 2: Create Flat Rectangle

Place a large piece of parchment paper on your work surface and put the peanut butter mixture on top.

Cover with another parchment paper sheet and gently roll out the mixture into a thin, even rectangular shape using a rolling pin.

Step 3: Prepare Chocolate Coating

Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt chocolate chips and coconut oil.

Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Layer Chocolate Topping

Remove the top parchment paper from the peanut butter rectangle.

Carefully pour and spread the melted chocolate evenly across the entire surface, ensuring full coverage from edge to edge.

Step 5: Roll Into Log

Using the bottom parchment paper as a guide, slowly and tightly roll the sheet into a compact log.

Press gently to seal the edges and maintain a consistent shape.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Transfer the rolled log to the refrigerator and let it rest for 1-2 hours.

The pinwheel log needs to become completely firm before slicing.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Remove the log from the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to cut into beautiful pinwheel slices.

Arrange on a serving plate and enjoy your delightful no-bake treat.

  • Use room temperature butter and peanut butter for easier blending and a smoother consistency.
  • Press the parchment paper gently while rolling to create an even, tight log without air pockets.
  • Microwave chocolate in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent burning and ensure silky texture.
  • Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to maintain its shape and prevent drying out.
  • Use a sharp, clean knife and wipe between cuts for neat, uniform pinwheel slices.
  • Almond Butter Alternative: Replace peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor and added nutrition, perfect for those with peanut allergies.
  • Vegan Chocolate Pinwheels: Swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips to create a completely plant-based version of the recipe.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, making this treat safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the dessert's delicious taste.

Pinwheel Cookies – Ways to Serve Them

  • Sweet Dessert Platter: Create an elegant display with the pinwheels arranged beautifully on a white marble serving board, garnished with fresh mint leaves and a light dusting of cocoa powder.
  • Party Snack Presentation: Cut pinwheels into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy sharing during gatherings, perfect for game nights or casual get-togethers with friends and family.
  • Coffee Companion: Serve these delightful pinwheels alongside a hot cappuccino or espresso for a decadent afternoon treat that balances rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter flavors.
  • Gifting Option: Wrap individual pinwheels in parchment paper with a ribbon, making them a charming homemade gift for neighbors, teachers, or holiday exchanges.

Storing Pinwheel Cookies the Smart Way

  • Wrap pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Layer pinwheels between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring they're completely sealed to prevent freezer burn.
  • Transfer frozen pinwheels to the refrigerator and let them slowly defrost for 2-3 hours. Avoid room temperature thawing to maintain texture and prevent potential bacterial growth.
  • Let chilled or thawed pinwheels sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor.
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No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe


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4.9 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet chocolate and creamy peanut butter dance together in these No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels, creating a delightful treat perfect for quick dessert cravings. Minimal ingredients and simple steps guarantee you can enjoy these irresistible swirls of indulgence in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Base:

  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon (1 tbsp) coconut oil

Peanut Butter Filling:

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Coating/Garnish:

(none)


Instructions

  1. Combine powdered sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter in a mixing bowl, blending until a cohesive and silky texture forms.
  2. Place the mixture between two parchment paper sheets and carefully roll into a uniform thin rectangle, ensuring even thickness.
  3. Microwave chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely smooth and glossy.
  4. Gently spread the melted chocolate across the entire surface of the peanut butter layer, creating an even, consistent coating.
  5. Using the parchment paper as a guide, carefully roll the sheet into a compact, tight log, pressing gently to ensure a secure seal.
  6. Transfer the rolled log to the refrigerator and chill for approximately 90 minutes, or until the pinwheel becomes firm and maintains its shape.
  7. Remove from refrigerator and slice into uniform rounds, revealing the beautiful chocolate and peanut butter swirl pattern.
  8. Arrange pinwheels on a serving plate and enjoy the cool, creamy treat immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Ensure butter and peanut butter are at room temperature for smooth, easy mixing without lumps.
  • Use high-quality chocolate chips for richer, more decadent flavor and smoother melting.
  • Chill the log longer for cleaner, more precise pinwheel slices that hold their shape perfectly.
  • Substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version suitable for allergies.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Rolling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 263
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 30 mg
  • Fat: 19 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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