Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut butter no bake cookies are the perfect treat for those who crave a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors, all without the need for an oven. These rich, chewy cookies come together quickly, making them an effortless choice for a last-minute dessert or snack that everyone will love.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 140
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
There are several reasons why these peanut butter no bake cookies should find a place in your recipe collection. First, they are incredibly simple to make. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, even novice cooks can whip them up in no time. Second, they offer a delightful texture with a combination of creaminess from the peanut butter and chewiness from the oats. Lastly, they’re endlessly customizable. You can add chocolate chips, sprinkle them with sea salt, or even swap out peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
## Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups quick oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (optional)
## Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, and cocoa powder (if you’re using it). Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture constantly until it comes to a boil.
### Step 2: Mixing
Once it reaches a rolling boil, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a smooth consistency. The heat will help the peanut butter melt and blend effortlessly with the other ingredients.
### Step 3: Cooking
Next, add the quick oats to the mixture and stir until all of the oats are well coated with the peanut butter mixture. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
### Step 4: Finishing
On a sheet of wax paper, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the surface. Let the cookies cool until they set, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen as they cool!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience by pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They’re also great for parties or as lunchbox treats. You can even stack them in an airtight container for a lovely homemade gift.
How to Store Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Store your peanut butter no bake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they can last up to three months in the freezer.
Expert Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Measuring Peanut Butter: For easier measuring, lightly coat your measuring cup with cooking spray before adding the peanut butter.
- Consistency: If the mixture seems too runny, you may add a bit more oats. If it’s too thick, a splash of milk will help adjust the consistency.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For added indulgence, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies for a decorative touch.
- Nut Allergies: If you need nut-free options, try sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for a similar texture and flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to mix in mini chocolate chips, raisins, or dried fruits for a fun twist!
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Increase the cocoa powder to 1 cup and mix in chocolate chips for double the chocolate.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Oatmeal Raisin: Substitute half the oats for raisins to create a chewy oatmeal raisin-style cookie.
- Coconut Twist: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works well but may result in a slightly different texture. Make sure to stir it well before measuring, as it tends to separate.
2. How can I tell when the cookies are set?
Typically, the cookies will hold their shape and feel firm to the touch when they are set. This usually takes around 30 minutes at room temperature.
3. How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the wax paper?
To avoid sticking, ensure you use high-quality wax paper. Alternatively, use parchment paper for better results, as it is less likely to cause sticking.
4. Can I leave out the cocoa powder?
Absolutely! The cookies will still taste great without cocoa powder, offering a delicious peanut butter flavor.
5. What should I do if my cookies are too crumbly?
If your cookies are crumbling apart, it’s possible they did not have enough moisture. Try adding a bit more milk or peanut butter to the mixture next time.
Conclusion
Peanut butter no bake cookies are a fantastic treat that combines simplicity with satisfying flavors. Their delightful texture and rich taste make them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family snack or an unexpected gathering, these cookies are sure to leave everyone with smiles—and maybe asking for seconds! Give them a try, and enjoy the sweet, nutty goodness without even turning on your oven!
Print
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These peanut butter no bake cookies deliver a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors, made effortlessly without an oven.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups quick oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, and cocoa powder (if using). Place over medium heat and stir until it comes to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the quick oats and stir to coat.
- On wax paper, drop spoonfuls of the mixture and let cool for about 30 minutes until set.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
