Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that brings back memories of childhood. These cookies combine the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the chewiness of oatmeal and the colorful crunch of Reese’s candy. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to whip up and require no baking, making them an ideal choice for busy days or spontaneous gatherings. Their unique combination of flavors makes them irresistible to both kids and adults alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 5 minutes, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
- No Baking Required: Perfect for hot days when you want something sweet without turning on the oven.
- Fun and Colorful: The addition of Reese’s Pieces candy adds a fun twist that will delight everyone.
- Versatile Treat: Great for parties, school lunches, or as an after-school snack.
- Child-Friendly: Kids love making these cookies just as much as they enjoy eating them!
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making these delicious Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Two tablespoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for mixing all ingredients together while boiling.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring thick mixtures without scratching your pot.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a classic, childhood treat made with oatmeal, peanut butter, and Reese’s candy!
For the Base
- 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
To Add Texture and Flavor
- 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: Boil the Base Mixture
In a large pot, add sugar, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow it to boil for one full minute before removing it from heat.
Step 2: Mix in Flavors
Add vanilla, salt, and creamy peanut butter. Stir until smooth. Then fold in the oats, mixing until completely combined. Finally, fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy, ensuring an even distribution.
Step 3: Shape Your Cookies
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on your counter. Using two spoons, drop cookie dough by large tablespoon onto the parchment paper.
Step 4: Let Them Set
Allow your cookies to set for about 20 minutes at room temperature. Once set, store them in a covered, airtight container to keep them fresh. ENJOY!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are delicious and versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
Cookie Sandwiches
- Create delightful sandwiches by placing a scoop of ice cream between two cookies. This makes for a tasty dessert, especially during warm weather.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk. The creamy texture of the milk complements the rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.
Topped with Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over your cookies for an extra touch of sweetness. This adds visual appeal and enhances the chocolatey flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside fresh fruit, such as apple slices or bananas. The freshness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cookies.
As Party Favors
- Package cookies in decorative bags for party favors. They make for fun and tasty gifts that guests will appreciate.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies on a dessert platter with other treats. This creates an inviting spread that’s perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Perfecting your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions for consistently great results.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the peanut butter, are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
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Measure Accurately: Be precise with your measurements. Accurate ingredient amounts help achieve the right consistency in your dough.
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Stir Thoroughly: Mix well after adding oats and candy. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor from the peanut butter and Reese’s Pieces.
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Chill Before Serving: Let cookies set at room temperature but consider chilling them briefly in the fridge for firmer texture before serving.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for variation. This can enhance both taste and texture in each cookie.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
When enjoying Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, consider pairing them with delightful side dishes to create a complete snack or dessert experience. Here are some great options:
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a nutritious side that complements the richness of the cookies.
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Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses with crackers. The savory flavors contrast nicely with sweet cookies.
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Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix provides added texture and healthy fats that pair well with peanut butter flavors.
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These salty-sweet treats offer an enjoyable crunch alongside your cookies.
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Ice Cream Sundae: Top scoops of ice cream with crushed cookies for a fun twist on traditional sundaes.
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Carrot Sticks with Hummus: The crunchiness of carrots combined with creamy hummus offers a healthy balance to sweet indulgences.
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Trail Mix Bars: These chewy bars made from nuts, seeds, and dried fruit make a unique pairing while keeping energy levels high.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes might ruin your batch. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.
- Wrong Ingredient Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to cookies that are too dry or too gooey. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Skipping the Boiling Step: Failing to boil the mixture for a full minute may prevent the cookies from setting properly. Make sure to time it and keep stirring!
- Using Old Oats: Old or stale oats can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies. Check the expiration date for freshness before using them.
- Not Allowing Enough Time to Set: Rushing the setting process can result in messy cookies. Let them cool for at least 20 minutes on parchment paper.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding oats and candy can make your cookies tough. Stir just until combined for the best texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be stored frozen for up to three months.
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 about 10-15 seconds until soft.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can substitute crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture. Just note that it will change the overall consistency slightly.
How long do Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies last?
When stored properly, they last about one week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
You can easily adapt this recipe by using plant-based butter and dairy-free milk. The result will still be delicious!
What other mix-ins can I use?
Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Each addition will give your cookies a unique twist.
Why aren’t my cookies setting?
If your cookies aren’t setting, it might be due to not boiling the mixture long enough. Ensure you boil for exactly one minute next time.
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile! You can customize them with various mix-ins based on your preference. So, gather your ingredients today and enjoy these delightful treats!
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are the ultimate nostalgic treat that effortlessly combines creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, and colorful Reese’s Pieces. These delightful cookies require no baking, making them a quick solution for satisfying sweet cravings any day of the week. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these deliciously addictive cookies in under 10 minutes. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they make an excellent addition to school lunches, parties, or spontaneous gatherings. Enjoy them as a classic snack or transform them with fun toppings and pairings—these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around!
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 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 and let it boil for one minute before removing from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and creamy peanut butter until smooth. Fold in oats until fully combined, then add Reese's Pieces evenly throughout.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper using two spoons, forming cookie shapes.
- Allow cookies to set at room temperature for about 20 minutes before storing in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
