Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful cookies blend creamy peanut butter with chewy oats and sweet Reese’s candy, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. The best part? They require no baking! Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an easy snack, or wanting to indulge your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 14 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute cravings or gatherings.
- No Baking Required: Save energy and time with this no-bake recipe that requires no oven, perfect for hot days.
- Deliciously Nutty Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet Reese’s Pieces delivers a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Sharing: With a yield of 60 cookies, these treats are great for parties, potlucks, or simply to have on hand at home.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or other candies to make these cookies your own!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the sugar mixture evenly without splattering.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect texture and taste.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing ingredients thoroughly and preventing sticking.
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
For the Mix-ins
- 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 before removing from heat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add vanilla extract, salt, and peanut butter to the pot. Stir until smooth. Next, fold in the quick-cook oatmeal until completely combined. Finally, fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on your counter. Using two spoons, drop cookie dough by large tablespoons onto the paper.
Step 4: Allow to Set
Let the cookies set for about 20 minutes until firm. Store them in a covered airtight container. ENJOY!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are deliciously versatile and can be served in several fun ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night at home, these cookies can elevate any occasion.
As a Snack
- Perfect for mid-afternoon cravings, these cookies provide a quick energy boost without the need for baking.
With Milk
- Pairing your no bake cookies with a cold glass of milk enhances the flavor and adds creaminess to every bite.
At Parties
- Serve these cookies on a platter during gatherings. They’re sure to impress guests and bring back childhood memories!
With Ice Cream
- Crumble the cookies on top of your favorite ice cream for an extra crunchy texture that complements the creamy dessert.
As Dessert Bars
- For a fun twist, press the cookie mixture into a square pan. Cut into bars for easy serving at potlucks or family gatherings.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Making perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies is all about timing and technique. Follow these simple tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and oats are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the boil: Boiling the mixture for exactly one minute is crucial. This helps achieve the right consistency.
- Stir quickly: Once you remove the pot from heat, stir in the ingredients immediately. This helps blend everything smoothly.
- Cool on parchment: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy while allowing air circulation for proper setting.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
To complement the rich flavors of Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, consider serving them with delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and berries alongside your cookies for a satisfying treat that’s also nutritious. -
Chocolate Milkshake
A thick chocolate milkshake pairs perfectly with these cookies, creating a classic dessert experience. -
Cheese Platter
Include a variety of cheeses to contrast with the sweetness of the cookies, making for an interesting flavor combination. -
Chips and Salsa
A savory option like chips with salsa can offset the sweetness, offering guests a range of tastes. -
Nutty Trail Mix
A homemade trail mix featuring nuts and dried fruits can enhance snacking options while echoing the peanut theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Incorrect Cooking Time: Boiling the mixture for too long can make cookies hard. Stick to one minute of boiling for the right texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can ruin the balance. Always measure accurately for perfect results.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cookies to set properly is crucial. Don’t rush this step; let them cool for about 20 minutes.
- Using Old Oats: Old or stale oats can affect taste and texture. Always use fresh quick-cook oats for the best flavor and consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze 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 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a plate for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat; warm cookies briefly on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful dessert made with oats, peanut butter, sugar, and candy that require no baking.
How do I make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies firmer?
To achieve firmer cookies, reduce the cooking time or add more oats to absorb moisture.
Can I customize my Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for different flavors and textures.
How long do Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies last?
Stored properly, these cookies will last up to one week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not just a nostalgic treat; they are also simple and quick to prepare. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite mix-ins. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy these delightful bites of joy!
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 60 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgia of Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, a delightful treat that brings together creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, and sweet Reese’s Pieces. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also require no baking, making them an ideal choice for quick snacks or party desserts.
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 and let boil for one minute before removing from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and creamy peanut butter until smooth.
- Fold in the quick cook oatmeal until well mixed, then add in the Reese's Pieces candy.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper and let sit for about 20 minutes until firm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (15g)
- Calories: 74
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 4mg
