These easy, no bake, freezer friendly Mocha Crunch Moose Paws are a dreamy mix of creamy peanut butter, rich cocoa, and bold espresso—coated in smooth dark chocolate with a satisfying crunch from cacao nibs.
Think homemade peanut butter cups meets frozen mocha bliss! Each bite delivers that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and coffee-kissed flavor, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels indulgent yet nourishing.
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt, honey, and peanut butter, these frozen chocolate bites are the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or healthy dessert alternative. The espresso powder deepens the chocolate flavor while the cacao nibs add a subtle crunch that coffee lovers will adore.
Whether you’re craving a freezer-friendly snack, a no-bake treat, or a make-ahead dessert, these mocha chocolate clusters check all the boxes. They come together in minutes, require no special equipment, and can be customized with your favorite nut butters or toppings.
Why you’ll love this recipe!
What ingredients do I need?
- Greek Yogurt: Adds protein and creaminess, keeping these frozen bites rich but balanced.
- Peanut Butter: Provides a nutty, satisfying base that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Honey: Naturally sweetens without refined sugar.
- Cocoa Powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor and enhances richness.
- Espresso Powder: Brings out the mocha notes and intensifies the cocoa flavor.
- Vanilla Bean Paste: Adds warmth and depth for a bakery-style finish.
- Dark Chocolate: A luscious coating that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Cacao Nibs: Add a natural crunch and a boost of antioxidants.
- Sea Salt: Optional, but elevates every flavor and adds that crave-worthy salty-sweet balance.
Recipe Variations
- Try some of my other variations:
- Not an espresso fan? No worries, just leave it out for a chocolate peanut butter version.
- Use almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower butter, etc.- adapt this recipe based on dietary preferences and allergies
- Feel free to use regular yogurt too, however this will change the amount of protein each piece has as well as the texture (would be a little thinner)
- Diary allergy or sensitivity? Try dairy alternative like coconut, soy, or almond based yogurts!
- Use other chocolate variations. I like dark best, but try milk, semi sweet, white!
- Don’t have honey? Use maple syrup instead
- Instead of cacao nibs, use chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts) or granola for a different crunch texture.
Pro Tips
- Use full-fat yogurt: It gives the mixture a creamier texture and richer flavor.
- Work in batches: Keep half the “paws” in the freezer while dipping to prevent melting.
- Move quickly! The chocolate will harden fast once the frozen disc is submerged.
- Place onto silicone mat or parchment paper to help with sticking.
- Customize the sweetness: Adjust honey to taste or swap for maple syrup if preferred.
- Not sure how to melt chocolate? Use my How To Melt Chocolate guide.
Can I Substitute?
Yes! Like always though, any substitutions made to the recipe can result in a change in texture and/or flavor.
- Peanut Butter: Swap with any other nut butter or sunflower butter (for a nut free option).
- Greek Yogurt: Coconut, soy, or almond yogurts would work for a dairy free option. Just avoid runny yogurts, which would change the texture.
- Honey: Just omit completely, or use maple syrup or agave.
- Don’t like espresso? Just leave it out!
- Don’t have espresso powder? Instant coffee or finely ground coffee works in a pinch; reduce slightly if using stronger coffee.
- Can’t find cacao nibs? Use chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts) or granola for a different crunch texture. Or grab Cacao nibs here.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Let them sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before eating for the perfect creamy bite.
- Avoid refrigerating, as they can become too soft and lose their texture.
But, I Still Have A Few Questions…
Are these healthy?
I would say yes. They are better for you than traditional ice cream bars and by making them at home you can choose the exact ingredients you want to use. These are made with protein-rich Greek yogurt, healthy fats from peanut butter, natural sweeteners, and dark chocolate. They’re a lighter alternative to many traditional sweet treats.
Do I need to bake these?
No baking required. Everything is mixed, shaped, dipped, and frozen.
What’s the best yogurt to use for the creamiest center?
Whole milk Greek yogurt works best because it freezes creamy instead of icy. Low-fat or nonfat yogurt will create a firmer, icier texture.
Can I make them dairy-free?
You can use coconut or almond yogurt and dairy-free chocolate for a fully dairy-free version.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Absolutely—almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well.
How long do they last in the freezer?
These keep well for up to two months when stored in an airtight container.
How long should the centers freeze before dipping?
At least 1 hour, or until fully hardened. If they’re even slightly soft, the chocolate won’t coat smoothly.
How do I keep the chocolate shell smooth?
If the chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil to help it melt smoothly and create a glossy finish. You can check out my guide for melting chocolate here.
Can I make these smaller?
Yes—1 to 1½ tablespoon scoops make perfect mini bites!
Other Recipes You’ll Love
Let’s engage!
Make sure to tag @thehomechefmomma on Instagram or Facebook, and leave a review or comment if you make these. I always get so excited to see your creations, variations of the recipe, and feedback! Just remember to be kind in your comments, there is still a person behind this screen! 🙂
Mocha Crunch Moose Paws
Ingredients
- 1 c. whole milk Greek yogurt plain
- 1/2 c. creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp espresso powder
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 12 oz dark chocolate melted
- 1/4 c. Cacao nibs
- Flaky sea salt optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together yogurt, peanut butter, espresso powder, cocoa powder, honey, and vanilla until fully combined.
- Spoon mix onto a parchment lined baking sheet (makes 7-8) and then flatten into a disc shape.
- Put in freezer for about an hour until fully hardened.
- While they are freezing, melt chocolate and add ground cacao nibs to it. Stir.
- Remove the paws from the freezer and completely coat in the melted chocolate. Place back onto parchment paper and sprinkle with sea salt, if desired. Return to freezer for a few minutes until hard and enjoy!
- Store in a freezer safe container in the freezer.
Notes
Mocha Crunch Moose Paws | Mocha Crunch Bites | Chocolate Peanut Butter Freezer Snacks | Healthy Mocha Dessert | Chocolate Mocha | No Bake Dessert | Frozen Sweet Treats | Espresso Chocolate Bites | Greek Yogurt Frozen Treats | Healthyish | Indulgent and Nourishing | High Protein Chocolate Dessert | High Protein Recipe | High Protein Dessert | Chocolate Peanut Butter | Chocolate Shell | Healthy Recipe | Easy Recipes | Dessert Recipe | Ice Cream Bar | Healthy Ice Cream Bar | Peanut Butter Recipes | Sweet Tooth | Indulgent | healthy Dessert | Refined Sugar Free | Frozen Yogurt | Dark Chocolate | High Protein
I’m a P.A and can’t wait to try these!!!
Can you omit any of the butters if you don’t like any kind of nut butter or do you need it for the texture?
Hello! It does need it for texture. Otherwise you get that icey, frozen yogurt texture. You can try sunflower butter! Or you can try cutting the butter in half. But it needs a little.
These are amazing!! I used sweetened condensed milk as the sweetener instead of honey since I know it does not freeze and I did not want them to be hard and icy. The filling turned out the perfect consistency! Not icy at all!
Thank you so much. I love the substitution!! Sounds delicious!
The same amount?
Hello! This isn’t part of my original recipe so I unfortunately do not have an answer for you.
I love your nutritional disclaimer! Makes perfect sense and I always believe that everything in moderation is a great way to do life!
I’m so glad this resonated with you. I am a firm believer in this!! <3