Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are the perfect solution for those busy days when you crave a delicious treat but don’t have time to bake. These cookies combine the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and chocolate, resulting in a delightful snack that everyone loves. With just a few simple ingredients and no oven required, making these cookies is a breeze!
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 55mg
Why Make Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are not only quick to prepare, but they also allow you to enjoy a sweet treat without the hassle of cleaning up baking pans. They are slightly healthier than traditional cookies since they don’t require butter or oil to be baked. You can also customize them to suit your taste or dietary needs by swapping out ingredients or adding extras.
How to Make Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies Step by Step
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter,
2 cups granulated sugar,
1/2 cup milk,
4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder,
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter,
2 teaspoons vanilla extract,
3 cups quick-cooking oats,
Pinch of salt
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in sugar, milk, and cocoa powder, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Add the oats and mix thoroughly until all oats are coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or parchment paper and let cool at room temperature until set, about 30 minutes.
How to Serve Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies can be enjoyed as a quick snack on their own, making them perfect for lunches or after-school treats. Pair them with a glass of milk for a delightful contrast, or serve them alongside your favorite fruit for a wholesome dessert. They also make a fantastic addition to picnic baskets or party trays.
How to Store Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
To keep your Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for a few weeks or freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Expert Tips for Cooking Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
- Be sure to stir the mixture continuously while it boils to prevent scorching.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips after combining the oats.
- Let the cookies sit for a full 30 minutes to ensure they set properly before serving.
- Experiment with different nut butters, such as almond or cashew, for a unique flavor twist.
- Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference, as these cookies can be made less sweet.
Delicious Variations of Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Stir in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
- Mix in a tablespoon of orange zest or a few drops of citrus extract for a refreshing twist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
What can I do if my mixture is too runny? You can add a little more oats to help absorb the excess moisture.
Can I make these cookies vegan? Yes, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk.
How do I know when my cookies are set? They should feel firm to the touch after cooling for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are a fantastic treat that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Their lovable combination of peanut butter and chocolate will satisfy your sweet tooth while making them an easy addition to your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate—try making these delightful cookies today!
