Craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven? These Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are the answer. Rich, chewy, and full of nutty flavor, this quick and easy dessert is perfect for those busy days when you need a fast treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast snack, easy dessert, or fun food idea to share, these cookies deliver. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and ready in just minutes—making them an ideal addition to your list of breakfast ideas, healthy snack options, and no-fuss dinner desserts.
No bake cookies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of baking. The no-bake process means less time spent in the kitchen and more time enjoying the delicious results. These cookies combine the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter with rolled oats, creating a chewy texture that is irresistibly satisfying. Plus, they’re made with common pantry ingredients that you likely already have on hand, making them an ideal treat to whip up at a moment’s notice.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 15 minutes, these cookies are perfect for any occasion or last-minute cravings.
- Healthier Option: These cookies are gluten-free and contain wholesome ingredients, making them a more nutritious treat compared to traditional cookies.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, breakfast snack, or even an on-the-go energy booster.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins to cater to your taste preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your delicious Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen. Begin by clearing your workspace and gathering all ingredients so you won’t miss anything. You’ll need a saucepan, a mixing spoon, a baking sheet, and parchment or wax paper. Having everything pre-measured can make the process smoother and more efficient.
Next, ensure that your baking sheet is lined with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking. This simple step helps lead to a successful and stress-free cookie-making experience. You’ll also want to keep your ingredients close at hand; this recipe calls for butter, sugar, milk, peanut butter, vanilla extract, rolled oats, and salt, all of which should be ready to go. That way, you can focus on mixing and forming your cookies without any interruptions.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Start by preparing your baking sheet. Make sure your workspace is clear and ready for action. Line your baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to ensure easy removal of the cookies post-setting. It’s wise to measure all your ingredients beforehand to make the process smooth and uncomplicated.
Step 2: Cook the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, and milk. Place it over medium heat, stirring continuously until it reaches a boil. This step is crucial because you want to ensure that the butter has melted fully and the sugar has dissolved, contributing to the rich texture of the cookies.
Step 3: Boil and Combine Ingredients
Once the mixture reaches a boil, let it cook without stirring for exactly one minute. This timing is essential, as it activates the sugar’s caramelization and allows the buttery flavor to develop. After one minute, take the saucepan off the heat and quickly stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and combined.
Step 4: Add Oats and Salt
Once your peanut butter and vanilla mixture is smooth, add in the rolled oats and salt. Stir quickly to coat the oats evenly, making sure every bit of oats gets that delightful peanut butter flavor. This step helps form the base of your cookies, ensuring they hold together nicely once they set.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them a bit apart since they might spread slightly as they cool. If desired, you can shape them into neat rounds. This is where you can get creative with your cookie shapes!
Step 6: Let Them Set
Allow the cookies to set. You can either leave them at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes or place them in the fridge for about 15 minutes for quicker setting. They will firm up as they cool, becoming that perfect chewy texture.
Once set, transfer your cookies to an airtight container for storage, ensuring they stay fresh.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute half of the peanut butter with your favorite protein powder for a quick pre or post-workout snack.
- Vegetables: Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition, or incorporate unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Spices: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor kick.
Cooking Notes
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks for optimal freshness.
- You can freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container; they will keep for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination.
- Serve them alongside yogurt and berries for a delicious breakfast option.
Tips
- For extra flavor, use a crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
- To make them chocolatey, drizzle melted chocolate on top before they set.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 103 per cookie
- Protein: 2.5g
- Sodium: 45mg
FAQs
Can I make these cookies without peanut butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sun butter if you need a nut-free option.
How do I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months.
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, old-fashioned oats will work fine, but the texture may be slightly different.
Conclusion
In just 15 minutes, you can indulge in these delightful Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies. Their rich, nutty flavor and chewy texture will have you reaching for one more. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick breakfast snack, sharing them with friends, or having them as a dessert, everyone will love this effortless treat. Don’t hesitate to customize them to make them your own, and make sure to leave a comment below sharing your experiences or variations! Happy baking (or should I say no-baking?)!
Print
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: about 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in these delightful Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies. Rich, chewy, and naturally gluten-free, they’re a quick and easy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Start by preparing your baking sheet. Make sure your workspace is clear and ready for action. Line your baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to ensure easy removal of the cookies post-setting. It’s wise to measure all your ingredients beforehand to make the process smooth and uncomplicated.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, and milk. Place it over medium heat, stirring continuously until it reaches a boil. This step is crucial because you want to ensure that the butter has melted fully and the sugar has dissolved, contributing to the rich texture of the cookies.
- Once the mixture reaches a boil, let it cook without stirring for exactly one minute. This timing is essential, as it activates the sugar’s caramelization and allows the buttery flavor to develop. After one minute, take the saucepan off the heat and quickly stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and combined.
- Once your peanut butter and vanilla mixture is smooth, add in the rolled oats and salt. Stir quickly to coat the oats evenly, making sure every bit of oats gets that delightful peanut butter flavor. This step helps form the base of your cookies, ensuring they hold together nicely once they set.
- Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them a bit apart since they might spread slightly as they cool. If desired, you can shape them into neat rounds. This is where you can get creative with your cookie shapes!
- Allow the cookies to set. You can either leave them at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes or place them in the fridge for about 15 minutes for quicker setting. They will firm up as they cool, becoming that perfect chewy texture.
Notes
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks for optimal freshness. You can freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container; they will keep for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 103 per cookie
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Protein: 2.5 g