Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies Recipe
Okay, friends, let’s talk about a cookie that has been my staple in life since I was knee-high. What is a time machine? I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen, the smell of peanut butter filling my mouth. What a win when you have zero oven time! You’re impatient (like I always was! )? If you’re anything like me and sometimes the idea of turning on the oven feels like climbing Mount Everest.What is a no bake peanut butter cookie recipe?Is your best friend about to become your friend? What’s like chocolate fudge cookie, but easier and with that irresistible peanut butter flavor? What makes everything better?
What is a peanut butter no bake cookie?
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are exactly what they sound like: a cookie that requires absolutely no baking. Think of it as a magical alchemy of oats, peanut butter, sugar, butter, and cocoa, all melted together on the stovetop and then dropped onto a baking sheet to firm up. It’s essentially a fudge-like cookie with a slightly chewy texture, thanks to the oats, and a rich peanut butter flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the cocoa. The name is pretty self-explanatory, right? No oven needed! It’s the perfect solution for those hot summer days or anytime you’re craving a sweet treat without the fuss of traditional baking. My grandma always called them “refrigerator cookies” because that’s where they ended up setting, and honestly, the name just fits.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
How do I start with this recipe? What I love about this is that it’s a hug in cookie form!What is a no bake peanut butter cookie recipe? is its sheer simplicity. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, and the entire process takes less than 30 minutes, start to finish. Seriously, this is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when my sweet tooth starts calling. But let’s not forget the flavor! The combination of peanut butter and cocoa is a match made in heaven – rich, decadent, and utterly addictive. The oats add a lovely chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.
Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. We’re talking about pantry staples here, so you won’t be breaking the bank to whip up a batch of these beauties. And talk about versatile! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth, a dash of sea salt to enhance the sweetness, or even some chocolate chips for extra indulgence. I’ve even tried it with different types of nut butter (almond butter works surprisingly well!), and it’s always a hit.
If you’re a fan of easy desserts, you might also enjoy my chocolate fudge recipe, but honestly, these peanut butter no-bake cookies are in a league of their own. They’re the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nostalgia, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time!
How do you make no-bake peanut butter cookies?
Quick Overview
What are some of the easiest cookies to make? You’ll melt butter, sugar, and milk in a saucepan, then stir in cocoa and peanut butter. After a quick boil, you’ll add in the oats and vanilla, drop spoonfuls onto an ungreased baking sheet, and let cool. How do you watch the mixture carefully while it boils to avoid burning, and to work quickly. Once the oats are added to the water, the mixture Is it easier than it sounds?
Ingredients Notes
For the Main Batter:
Butter: Unsalted butter is best, as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the cookies.
Granulated Sugar: This provides sweetness and helps to create the right texture.
Whole milk will give you the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even non-dairy milk if needed (I use whole milk for about a week). I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the cookies that classic chocolate flavor. What is the best cocoa powder?
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is the way to go for these cookies. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it tends to separate and can make the cookies greasy.
Quick-Cooking Oats: These are essential for the chewy texture of the cookies. Don’t substitute old-fashioned oats with modern-day wheat flour. They will not cook properly.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the other flavors and adds a hint of warmth.
How do I follow the
Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. How do I prevent cookies from sticking to my fingers? Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, and milk. Set aside. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 3: Add Cocoa and Peanut Butter
Stir in the cocoa powder and peanut butter until well combined. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
Step 4: Boil for 1 Minute
Once the mixture is at a rolling boil (meaning it’s bubbling vigorously even while stirring), set ice. Timer for 1 minute and continue to cook, stirring constantly. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency, so don’t skip it!
Step 5: Remove from Heat
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the oats and vanilla extract until well combined. Work quickly, as the mixture will start to thicken as it cools.
Step 6: Drop by Spoonfuls
What is the best way to prepare a baking sheet? Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. I like to use a cookie scoop to ensure that all the cookies are the same size, but I also like using my regular spoon. What is the best way to do it?
Step 7: Let Set
Let the cookies set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until they are firm. If you’re impatient (like me), you can pop them in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Once the cookies are firm, peel off the parchment paper and enjoy! These cookies are best enjoyed within a few days, but let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long.
What is the best way to serve it?
What are some great no bake cookies? Variety of accompaniments. For a simple treat, serve them with ice cold milk or hot coffee. What are some great additions to a cookie exchange?For Breakfast:Okay, maybe not *for* breakfast, but alongside! I love crumbling these over a yogurt parfait for extra sweetness and texture. What is better than a cookie with your morning coffee?For Brunch:What are some great Easter cookies to add to your brunch spread? Arrange them on a platter with other sweet treats like muffins, scones, and fruit for reminiscences. What a delicious display.As Dessert:After dinner, these cookies are the perfect ending to any meal. What’s a good dessert to serve with vanilla ice cream?For Cozy Snacks:What’s better than curling up on the couch with a good book and steamed rice? What’s a good snack to serve with hot chocolate? My family makes these cookies every year for Christmas, and we always serve them. With a big glass of eggnog. What is the best way to celebrate the holidays?
How do I make no bake peanut butter cookies?
What is the best way to take your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks that I have learned over the years?What is your favorite peanut butter flavor?What is the best peanut butter cookie recipe? Avoid natural peanut butter, as it tends to separate and can make the cookies greasy. If you absolutely must use natural peanut butter, make sure to stir it well before measuring and serving. What is the best way to bind ingredients together?Sugar Adjustment: WhatIf you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of sugar. How much sugar can I use in a day? Is it possible to reduce sugar too much?Oat Consistency: Quick-cooking oats are essential for the chewy texture of these cookies. Don’t substitute with old-fashioned oats, as they won’t cook properly. If you only have old-fashioned oats on hand, you can pulse them in a food processor a few times to break them down into smaller pieces.
Boiling Time: The boiling time is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Make sure to boil the mixture for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. If you don’t boil it long enough, the cookies will be too soft and sticky. If you boil it for too long, they will be dry and crumbly.
Cooling Time: Let the cookies set completely before peeling them off the parchment paper. If you try to peel them off too soon, they will fall apart. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the refrigerator to speed up the process, but be sure to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as they can be quite hard when cold.
I once accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted, and the cookies were way too salty. It was a total disaster! That’s why I always double-check my ingredients before starting.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause them to melt.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving, as they can be quite hard when cold.
Freezer Instructions: These cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Glaze Timing Advice: There is no glaze for this recipe.
I always make a double batch of these cookies and freeze half for later. It’s so convenient to have a sweet treat on hand whenever a craving strikes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies Recipe! It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations in my family, and it’s one that I know you’ll love just as much as we do. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious – what’s not to love? If you’re looking for other easy dessert recipes, be sure to check out my chocolate fudge recipe. Happy baking (or should I say, no-baking)! Can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Drop a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them too!
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Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter cut into pieces
- 0.5 cups whole milk
- 0.25 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups quick-cooking oats
- 0.25 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until butter is melted and mixture is smooth.
- Bring mixture to a boil and continue to stir frequently. Once boiling, let it cook for 1 minute.
- Remove saucepan from heat and immediately stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract.
- Add oats and salt to the peanut butter mixture; stir until fully combined.
- Drop tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or a silicone baking mat. Let cookies cool completely to set.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
