Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the nostalgia of childhood back to life. With their rich peanut butter flavor, chewy oatmeal texture, and colorful bursts from Reese’s Pieces candy, these cookies are perfect for various occasions—from casual snacks to festive gatherings. Best of all, they require no baking, making them an easy choice for anyone who loves sweets without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 14 minutes with minimal effort.
- No Baking Required: Say goodbye to preheating the oven; simply mix and set!
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out with mixing and dropping the dough.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or swap out candies based on your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a school event or a holiday party, these treats fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoons
- Parchment paper
- Cookie sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spillage.
- Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze when setting your cookies.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 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
How to Make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Step 1: Combine Sugar, Milk, and Butter
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: Mix in Vanilla and Peanut Butter
Add vanilla extract, salt, and peanut butter to the pot. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Fold in Oats and Candy
Fold in quick cook oatmeal until completely combined. Gently fold in Reese’s Pieces candy.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on the counter. Using two spoons, drop cookie dough by large tablespoons onto the paper.
Step 5: Allow to Set
Let the cookies set for about 20 minutes. Store them in a covered, airtight container. Enjoy!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, here are some fun serving suggestions.
For Parties
- Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a large platter with colorful paper liners for a festive look.
- Dipping Station: Serve alongside melted chocolate or caramel for guests to dip their cookies.
With Milk
- Classic Pairing: A tall glass of cold milk is the perfect companion for these cookies, enhancing their creamy peanut butter flavor.
As Dessert Toppings
- Ice Cream Topping: Crumble cookies over your favorite ice cream for an added crunch and flavor burst.
- Yogurt Mix-In: Stir crushed cookies into yogurt for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Gift Ideas
- Jar Gifts: Layer the ingredients in a mason jar as a fun gift, along with the recipe attached for friends and family to make their own!
How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
For the best results when making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, follow these tips to enhance flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and oats are fresh for optimal taste.
- Boil Properly: Let the mixture boil for exactly one minute; this ensures proper consistency.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow cookies to set at room temperature so they firm up perfectly without being gooey.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding nuts or dried fruits for additional flavors and textures.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly without affecting the structure of the cookies.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
When enjoying Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes to elevate your treat experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Milkshake: The creamy chocolate flavor complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A healthy option that adds crunch and nutrition alongside your sweet treats.
- Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like cream cheese can provide a contrasting flavor profile.
- Trail Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts and dried fruits pairs well with the soft texture of the cookies.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy bites add another layer of sweetness while sharing a similar texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Overboiling the mixture: Boiling for too long can make the cookies dry. Stick to one minute for the best texture.
- Using old oats: Old oatmeal can affect the flavor and texture. Always use fresh quick-cooking oats for optimal results.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can lead to poor consistency. Use proper measuring cups for both dry and wet ingredients.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing cookies to set is crucial for them to hold shape. Be patient; they need about 20 minutes to cool completely.
- Not using parchment paper: Skipping this step can cause sticking. Always line your counter with parchment paper for easy removal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to three months for best quality.
Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies made of?
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are made from sugar, milk, butter, peanut butter, oats, and candy like Reese’s Pieces.
How long do Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies take to set?
These cookies typically need about 20 minutes to set properly after being dropped onto parchment paper.
Can I customize Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
Yes! You can add nuts, swap candies, or use different nut butters based on your preference.
How do I know if my Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are done?
They should be firm enough to hold their shape but still soft when you touch them before cooling.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories while being incredibly easy to make. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite mix-ins, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these sweet, no-bake delights!
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are the ultimate nostalgic treat that combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with a chewy oatmeal texture and colorful bursts of candy. These delightful cookies come together in just 14 minutes and require no baking, making them perfect for busy days or spontaneous gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a festive dessert, or a fun treat to make with the kids, these easy-to-make cookies will bring smiles all around. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different candies for an extra special touch. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe that captures the essence of childhood sweetness!
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-cooking oats
- 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 and boil for one minute. Remove from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Fold in quick-cooking oats and gently mix in Reese's Pieces candy.
- Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto parchment paper.
- Allow to set for about 20 minutes before storing in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
