Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings back childhood memories. With their rich peanut butter flavor, chewy oats, and the fun crunch of Reese’s candy, these cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a tasty after-school snack, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Plus, there’s no baking required, making it a hassle-free option that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 14 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time.
- No Baking Required: Perfect for hot days or when you’re short on time—just mix and set!
- Versatile Treat: You can customize with different mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for varied flavors.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun activity for kids to help make, plus they’ll love eating their creations!
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 60 servings per batch, these cookies are great for gatherings or parties.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Two spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling ingredients together evenly without spilling.
- Mixing spoon: Helps combine the ingredients thoroughly for a smooth cookie dough.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy when setting your cookies.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a classic treat made with oatmeal, peanut butter, and Reese’s candy!
For the Base Mixture
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
For the Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 1/2 cups quick cook oatmeal
- 1 1/2 cups Reese’s Pieces candy
How to Make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large pot, add sugar, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for one full minute. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Add vanilla extract, salt, and creamy peanut butter to the pot. Stir until completely smooth.
Step 3: Combine with Oats and Candy
Fold in quick cook oatmeal until fully combined. Then gently fold in Reese’s Pieces candy.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on your counter. Using two spoons, drop cookie dough by large tablespoons onto the parchment.
Step 5: Allow to Set
Let the cookies sit until they set (about 20 minutes). Once set, store them in a covered airtight container. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful treat.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for the classic combination that enhances the flavors.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Add your favorite ice cream in between for a decadent dessert.
Topped with Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
As Party Favors
- Package individual cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbons. They make great party favors for events or gatherings.
Crumbled over Yogurt
- Crumble the cookies on top of yogurt for a tasty breakfast or snack option that adds crunch and flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas to balance the sweetness and add freshness.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
To ensure your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your sugar, peanut butter, and oats to guarantee the best flavor.
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Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for sugar and oatmeal. Even slight variations can affect texture.
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Stir well: Make sure to stir the mixture thoroughly after adding peanut butter, so it combines smoothly without lumps.
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Don’t skip the cooling time: Allow the cookies to set for at least 20 minutes. This helps them firm up properly before serving.
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Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add other mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
These delicious side dishes complement Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies wonderfully. Here are some great options:
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs nicely with the chewy cookies, making for a delightful dessert experience.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Serve a thick chocolate milkshake as a fun drink that matches perfectly with the cookie’s peanut buttery taste.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances out the sweetness of the cookies while adding savory notes.
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Carrot Sticks and Hummus: For a healthier side, crunchy carrot sticks served with hummus provide a satisfying crunch against the soft cookies.
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Hot Chocolate: Enjoying warm hot chocolate alongside your cookies creates a comforting treat on chilly days.
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Coconut Macaroons: These sweet treats add another layer of flavor while maintaining a similar texture profile.
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Popcorn with Peanut Butter Drizzle: A fun twist could be popcorn drizzled with melted peanut butter, creating an irresistible snack combo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Incorrect Boiling Time: Boiling the mixture for too long or too short can affect the texture. Make sure to boil for exactly one minute for the right consistency.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can lead to cookies that are either too dry or too gooey. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cookies to set properly is essential. Skipping this step can result in a runny mess instead of solid cookies.
- Using Old Oats: Old oats may not bind well with the mixture, leading to crumbling cookies. Always check the expiration date on your oats before using them.
- Not Storing Properly: If you don’t store your cookies in an airtight container, they can become stale quickly. Make sure you seal them well after they cool.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Keep in a cool area of the fridge to maintain freshness.
Freezing Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and warm covered for a couple of minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies and their answers.
Can I replace peanut butter with another nut butter?
You can use almond butter or cashew butter as alternatives, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
How do I add chocolate to my Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
You can mix in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before they set for an extra treat.
How long do Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies last?
When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week in the fridge and three months in the freezer.
Are there any gluten-free options for these cookies?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats anytime!
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 servings 1x
Description
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a nostalgic treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with chewy oats and the delightful crunch of Reese’s candy. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies require no baking, making them a hassle-free option for satisfying your sweet tooth. In just 14 minutes, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing an after-school snack or looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is versatile and fun. Customize it with your favorite mix-ins or enjoy them as they are—either way, you’ll love every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 1/2 cups quick cook oatmeal
- 1 1/2 cups Reese's Pieces candy
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine sugar, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat for one minute before removing from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and creamy peanut butter until smooth.
- Fold in quick cook oatmeal and then gently mix in Reese's Pieces candy.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper and let set for about 20 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container once set.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
