Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightfully quick and easy treat that brings back childhood memories. With their creamy peanut butter and chewy oatmeal combination, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from school lunches to family gatherings. Plus, the addition of colorful Reese’s Pieces candy makes them visually appealing and even more irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: These cookies require no baking, meaning you can whip them up in just a few minutes.
- Kid-Friendly: The fun colors of Reese’s Pieces combined with the taste of peanut butter make these a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an after-school snack, party favor, or holiday treat—these cookies fit any occasion perfectly.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe doesn’t require any fancy equipment or techniques.
- Great for Sharing: With about 60 cookies per batch, they are perfect for sharing at gatherings or giving as gifts.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Two spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: This is essential for combining all your ingredients over heat without spilling.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing the ingredients thoroughly while protecting your pot from scratches.
- Parchment paper: It provides a non-stick surface for your cookies to cool on, making cleanup easier.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a classic, childhood treat made with oatmeal, peanut butter, and Reese’s candy!
For the Cookies
- 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
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 creamy peanut butter to the mixture. Stir until smooth. Then fold in the quick-cook oatmeal 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 large tablespoons of cookie dough onto the paper.
Step 4: Set and Store
Allow the cookies to set for about 20 minutes. Once set, store them in a covered airtight container. ENJOY!
With just a few simple steps and minimal time required, you’ll have delicious Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies ready to share!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply snacking at home, these cookies can fit any occasion.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk complements the rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.
As Party Favors
- Wrap them in clear bags tied with ribbons for a sweet gift that guests will love.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies alongside other treats like brownies or fruit for an appealing dessert spread.
With Ice Cream
- Crumble cookies over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious topping.
As a Lunchbox Snack
- Pack these cookies in lunchboxes for a quick treat that kids will enjoy during school breaks.
For Movie Night
- Serve these cookies with popcorn and drinks for a cozy movie experience at home.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
To achieve the best Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, consider the following tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and oats are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Stir Quickly: Once off the heat, stir the mixture quickly to ensure everything blends well.
- Don’t Overcook: Boil the mixture just for one minute; overcooking can make the cookies too hard.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting them set in the fridge for about 10 minutes can enhance their texture.
- Customize Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor variations.
- Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness longer.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can elevate your snack time. Here are some tasty options that complement these treats well:
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses that provide savory contrast to the cookie’s sweetness.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries makes for a nutritious side dish.
- Veggie Sticks: Carrot, celery, and cucumber sticks offer a crunchy, healthy snack alongside cookies.
- Granola Bars: These chewy snacks pair well and offer extra energy when you need it.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Sweet and salty pretzels add another layer of flavor to your dessert table.
- Homemade Smoothies: Blend fruits with yogurt or milk for a creamy drink that goes perfectly with cookies.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances the cookie experience while providing comfort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can disrupt the process. Here are some to watch out for:
- Using the wrong type of oats: Quick cook oats work best for this recipe. Avoid using instant or old-fashioned oats, as they won’t give the same texture.
- Not boiling long enough: Be sure to boil the mixture for a full minute. If you don’t, the cookies may not set properly and could turn out too gooey.
- Overmixing: Once you’ve added the oats and candy, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie instead of a chewy one.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Laying out your cookie dough on parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Don’t skip this step!
- Storing improperly: Make sure to store your cookies in an airtight container. This helps maintain their freshness and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store 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 parchment paper.
- Freeze for up to three months before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; place cookies in the skillet and cover until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful treat made with oats, peanut butter, and chocolate candy. They require no baking, making them quick and easy to prepare.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works well in this recipe. Just ensure it’s creamy for the best consistency.
How can I customize my Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
You can add different mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to create your own version of these delicious cookies.
Why did my cookies not set properly?
If your cookies are too gooey, it might be because you didn’t boil the mixture long enough. Make sure to boil it for one full minute as instructed.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, these Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be gluten-free!
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only a nostalgic treat but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Try adding your favorite toppings or mix-ins for unique variations that everyone will enjoy!
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 60 cookies 1x
Description
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful throwback to childhood, combining creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, and colorful Reese’s Pieces for a treat that’s both quick and satisfying. These cookies require no baking, making them a perfect choice for busy days or spontaneous gatherings.
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 boil for one minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, salt, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Fold in the oatmeal until evenly combined, then gently fold in the Reese's Pieces.
- Drop tablespoons of the mixture onto parchment paper and let set for about 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 16g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: <1mg
