Easy No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe

Dreamy No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe

Whipping up these delectable no bake chocolate peanut butter pinwheels brings pure dessert magic to your kitchen.

Sweet and rich flavors dance together in a simple treat that requires zero oven time.

chocolate and peanut butter create an irresistible combination that melts hearts instantly.

Minimal ingredients mean maximum enjoyment for anyone craving a quick indulgence.

Cool and creamy textures promise a delightful experience with each bite.

Smooth layers of chocolate and peanut butter roll into perfect spirals that look professionally crafted.

You’ll become an instant dessert hero when serving these impressive sweets at any gathering.

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Treat

  • Craft with Ease: This no-bake dessert requires minimal kitchen skills, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone craving a quick sweet treat.
  • Quick Ingredient Magic: With just a handful of pantry staples like peanut butter, chocolate, and powdered sugar, you can create a stunning dessert without complicated shopping.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These pinwheels offer a classic chocolate and peanut butter combination that appeals to both kids and adults, making them ideal for family gatherings or potluck parties.
  • Chill and Serve Convenience: Prepare the recipe ahead of time, let it set in the refrigerator, and enjoy a make-ahead dessert that's ready whenever you need a delicious surprise.

Ingredients For No Bake Peanut Butter Pinwheels

Base Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: The sweet foundation that helps bind the peanut butter mixture.
  • Peanut Butter: Provides rich, creamy flavor and structure to the pinwheel.
  • Butter: Softens the mixture and adds smooth, rich texture.
Fat and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, complex depth to the overall dessert flavor.
Coating Ingredient:
  • Chocolate Chips: Creates a delicious chocolate outer layer for the pinwheels.
Optional Preparation Ingredient:
  • Wax Paper: Helps roll and shape the mixture without sticking.

How To Make No Bake Pinwheels

Step 1: Whip Together Creamy Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, smooth peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or whisk vigorously until the ingredients transform into a silky, uniform blend with no lumps.

The mixture should feel slightly stiff but pliable.

Step 2: Create Flat Rectangular Base

Place a sheet of wax paper on a clean countertop.

Transfer the creamy mixture onto the wax paper and gently roll it out using a rolling pin. Aim to create an even rectangular shape approximately 1/4 inch thick.

Ensure the edges are smooth and consistent.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate Coating

Select your preferred chocolate chips (dark, milk, or semi-sweet).

Place them in a microwave-safe bowl or use a double boiler. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent burning.

Continue until chocolate becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Spread Chocolate Layer

Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter rectangle.

Use a spatula or offset knife to create a uniform chocolate layer, covering the entire surface. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.

Step 5: Roll Into Tight Log

Carefully lift the wax paper’s edge and begin rolling the mixture into a compact cylindrical log. Move slowly and steadily, ensuring the chocolate and peanut butter layers remain intact.

Wrap the log tightly in the wax paper.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Place the wrapped log in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight.

The chilling process helps the pinwheels firm up and makes slicing easier.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Remove the log from the refrigerator.

Using a sharp knife, slice into 1/2-inch thick pinwheel rounds. Arrange on a serving plate and keep chilled until ready to enjoy.

These treats are perfect for parties, dessert tables, or midnight snacking.

Tips For Creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels

  • Chill the mixture thoroughly to ensure a clean, sharp pinwheel slice without crumbling.
  • Use room temperature butter for smoother blending and easier mixing of ingredients.
  • Select high-quality chocolate chips for richer, more decadent flavor in the pinwheels.
  • Opt for natural peanut butter to reduce extra sweetness and enhance nutty undertones.
  • Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to maintain perfect cylindrical shape.

Different Takes On No Bake Pinwheels

  • Vegan Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based version.
  • Almond Butter Alternative: Swap peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free powdered sugar and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Sugar Variation: Substitute powdered sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit for a diabetic-friendly treat.

Serving Suggestions For No Bake Pinwheels

  • Dessert Party Platter: Create a stunning dessert board with sliced pinwheels arranged beautifully alongside fresh berries, whipped cream, and mint leaves for a sophisticated presentation.
  • Afternoon Tea Treat: Pair these elegant pinwheels with hot tea or coffee, cutting them into smaller bite-sized pieces perfect for elegant gatherings or casual social events.
  • Gifting Delight: Wrap individual pinwheels in parchment paper with a ribbon, making them a charming homemade gift for friends, family, or holiday celebrations. Package them in cute boxes for extra charm.
  • Kid-Friendly Snack: Cut pinwheels into smaller rounds for children's lunch boxes or after-school snacks, creating a fun and delicious treat that's both nutritious and sweet.

Best Storage For No Bake Pinwheels

  • Store pinwheels in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days, keeping the container sealed to maintain freshness.
  • Wrap individually in plastic wrap before placing in the container for extra protection.
  • Freeze pinwheels by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, lasting up to 3 months.

FAQs

  • Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter works great and adds extra texture to the pinwheels.

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

No, just a mixing bowl, wax paper, and a knife are all you need to create these delicious treats.

  • How long will these pinwheels stay fresh?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.

  • Can I substitute the chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate chips depending on your preference.

Print
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Easy No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe

Easy No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pinwheels Recipe


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4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Chocolate peanut butter pinwheels deliver a creamy, no-bake dessert sensation from classic American kitchens. Sweet spirals of chocolate and peanut butter promise quick satisfaction for hungry snackers seeking simple indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened

Sweeteners and Flavoring:

  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine powdered sugar, peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl, stirring until the mixture becomes uniformly smooth and creamy.
  2. Lay out a sheet of wax paper and carefully spread the mixture into a thin, even rectangular shape using a spatula or rolling pin.
  3. Melt chocolate chips using a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, or use a double boiler until completely liquefied and glossy.
  4. Gently pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly across the entire surface with a spatula, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. Using the wax paper as a guide, carefully roll the sheet into a tight cylindrical log, pressing gently to maintain a compact shape.
  6. Place the rolled log in the refrigerator and chill for 12 hours or overnight to allow the pinwheels to set and firm up completely.
  7. Remove from refrigerator, unwrap from wax paper, and slice into thin pinwheel rounds using a sharp knife, creating uniform bite-sized pieces.
  8. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich, decadent chocolate and peanut butter treat.

Notes

  • Ensure butter and peanut butter are at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing.
  • Use parchment paper instead of wax paper for easier rolling and cleaner edges.
  • For a gluten-free version, verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially powdered sugar.
  • Experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate for different flavor variations and visual appeal.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 hours
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Rolling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 215 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 45 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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