Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves a quick, delicious snack. These cookies combine the rich flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of Reese’s candy, making them an instant favorite for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing school lunches, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies fit every occasion. Plus, they require no baking—just mix and set!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
No Baking Required: Perfect for hot days or when you want a hassle-free treat.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping to make these cookies; they’re fun to mix and drop!
Great for Sharing: Make a large batch to share at gatherings or as gifts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, gather all necessary tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups
Parchment paper
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ensures all ingredients mix well without spilling over.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps achieve a smooth mixture without damaging your pot.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

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 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: Combine 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 Flavorings

Add in vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and creamy peanut butter. Stir until smooth. Then fold in the quick cook oatmeal, mixing until completely combined. Finally, gently fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy.

Step 3: 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.

Step 4: Allow to Set

Let the cookies set for about 20 minutes. Once firm, store them in a covered airtight container. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your snack time or dessert experience.

As a Quick Snack

Perfect for a midday pick-me-up or an after-school treat, these cookies give you a boost of energy without the need for baking.

With Milk

Pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk enhances the creamy peanut butter flavor and makes for a classic combination.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other treats for parties or gatherings.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

For an extra special dessert, crumble the cookies over vanilla ice cream. The crunchy texture complements the smoothness of the ice cream.

With Fresh Fruit

Serve alongside fresh fruit like apple slices or bananas for a nutritious and tasty accompaniment.

In Lunchboxes

These cookies make a great addition to lunchboxes, providing kids with a sweet surprise that is also filling.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

To ensure your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use Quick Oats: Quick cook oats absorb moisture better, giving your cookies the right texture.
Boil Time Matters: Make sure to boil the mixture for exactly one minute to achieve the ideal consistency.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the cookies to set properly before serving; this helps them hold their shape.
Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or different candies for variety and extra flavor.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly without compromising texture.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

When enjoying Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your snack experience. Here are some great options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of cookies.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts well with the cookies.
Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy vegetables provide a savory counterpoint to sweet treats while offering healthy nutrition.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor contrast when served alongside the cookies.
Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts is a simple yet satisfying side that adds crunch and protein.
Chocolate Milkshake: Treat yourself by pairing these cookies with a rich chocolate milkshake—perfect for dessert lovers!
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the peanut butter flavor beautifully and offer a cozy beverage option.
Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars can provide an additional layer of texture and taste alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

measuring: Not measuring ingredients accurately can change the texture. Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients.
boiling time: Boiling the mixture too long can make cookies too hard. Stick to one minute for the perfect chewy texture.
ingredient mixing: Failing to mix all ingredients thoroughly can result in uneven flavors. Make sure everything is well combined before dropping onto parchment paper.
cooling time: Not allowing enough cooling time can lead to sticky cookies. Let them set for at least 20 minutes before enjoying.
using old oats: Using stale or old oats can affect taste and texture. Always check freshness when making no bake cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies in an airtight container.
They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they last up to three months.

Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies.

What are Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a simple dessert made from sugar, milk, butter, peanut butter, oats, and candy. They require no baking!

Can I substitute ingredients in Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?

Yes, you can use almond butter instead of peanut butter or add different candies like chocolate chips or nuts for variety.

How do I store leftover Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Why did my cookies turn out too hard?

Overboiling the mixture can cause cookies to become hard. Ensure you only boil for one minute for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or different nuts. These delightful treats bring back nostalgic memories and provide a satisfying snack that’s perfect any time of day. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the love of homemade sweets!

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Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

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Author: Ana
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies—an irresistible treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! These scrumptious cookies combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the fun crunch of Reese’s candy, creating a snack that appeals to both kids and adults. Perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings, this quick recipe requires no baking at all—just mix, drop, and set. With customizable options for mix-ins and an easy preparation process, these cookies are a favorite for lunchboxes, parties, or simply as a sweet indulgence any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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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 peanut butter until smooth. Fold in quick cook oatmeal and then gently mix in Reese's Pieces.
Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto parchment paper and let them set for about 20 minutes until firm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American