Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that brings back fond childhood memories. With their rich peanut butter flavor, chewy oatmeal texture, and bursts of candy sweetness from Reese’s Pieces, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or craving something sweet, these cookies fit the bill. Plus, they come together in just minutes without the need for baking!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base Mixture
• For the Cookie Texture
• For Sweetness and Color
• How to Make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
• Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 2: Mix in Peanut Butter and Flavorings
• Step 3: Incorporate Oats and Candy
• Step 4: Shape the Cookies
• Step 5: Let Them Set
• How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
• With a Glass of Milk
• Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Fruit Slices
• Chocolate Drizzle
• Coffee or Tea
• How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
• Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
• Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
• How do I make these cookies healthier?
• What if my cookies aren’t setting properly?
• Can I add other mix-ins?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in under 15 minutes, making them perfect for when you’re short on time.
• No Baking Required: Skip the oven! You can enjoy these delicious cookies without any baking at all.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve your kids in the kitchen by letting them help mix ingredients and drop cookie dough onto parchment paper.
• Customizable Treats: Feel free to mix in your favorite candies or nuts to make these cookies your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their sweet peanut butter flavor and colorful candy pieces, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment will help you create these tasty treats effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Parchment paper
• Large spoon (for scooping)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is essential for combining all the wet ingredients and bringing them to a boil.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring and folding in ingredients without damaging the mixture.
• Parchment paper: It provides a non-stick surface for dropping your cookie dough, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

For the Base Mixture

• 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

For the Cookie Texture

• 2 1/2 cups quick cook oatmeal

For Sweetness and Color

• 1 1/2 cups Reese’s Pieces candy

How to Make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large pot, add sugar, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for one full minute before removing from heat.

Step 2: Mix in Peanut Butter and Flavorings

Add vanilla extract, salt, and peanut butter to the pot. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Oats and Candy

Fold in the quick-cook oatmeal until fully mixed. Then gently fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy until evenly distributed.

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 paper.

Step 5: Let Them Set

Allow the cookies to set for about 20 minutes at room temperature. Once set, store them in an airtight container. ENJOY!

How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not just delicious on their own; they can be paired with various treats to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful treat at any time.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Place two cookies around a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a fun and indulgent dessert.

Fruit Slices

• Serve with slices of apples or bananas for a refreshing contrast to the rich peanut butter flavor.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an added layer of sweetness and elegance.

Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.

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How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and oats are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for each ingredient to maintain the right consistency.
• Cool properly: Allow cookies to set at room temperature on parchment paper for optimal firmness.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Add nuts, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate to customize your cookies.
• Store correctly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from getting hard.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Chip Muffins: These sweet muffins create a fun contrast with the chewy texture of no bake cookies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the cookies.
4. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars provide an extra crunch alongside soft peanut butter treats.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
6. Homemade Milkshakes: Blend up some milkshakes using chocolate or vanilla ice cream for a decadent pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be simple, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Boil Time: Make sure to boil the mixture for a full minute. Skipping this step can lead to cookies that don’t set properly.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements. Too much sugar or too little oatmeal can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies.
• Using the Wrong Type of Oats: Ensure you’re using quick-cooking oats. Regular oats won’t absorb moisture in the same way, resulting in a different texture.
• Not Allowing Enough Time to Set: Patience is key! Letting your cookies set for at least 20 minutes ensures they firm up nicely.
• Overmixing the Cookie Dough: Stir just until combined. Overmixing can make your cookies dense instead of light and chewy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Cookies will last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on parchment paper before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.

Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes. This helps maintain their texture.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a non-stick pan over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies that might help you enjoy this treat even more!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and flavor. Feel free to swap it based on your preference.

How do I make these cookies healthier?

Consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and substitute half of the sugar with mashed bananas for added nutrition.

What if my cookies aren’t setting properly?

If they’re too soft, it could be due to insufficient boiling time. Try boiling them longer next time, as this helps them set correctly.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts can enhance the flavor and texture of your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different mix-ins or adjust sweetness levels according to your taste. Give this delightful recipe a try—you’ll love how simple it is to make these nostalgic treats!