Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful and nostalgic treat that everyone loves. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time. Perfect for parties, school events, or just a sweet snack at home, these cookies combine the rich flavor of peanut butter with the crunch of oatmeal and the sweetness of Reese’s candy. You’ll find that they are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires no baking, making it perfect for a last-minute treat.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and Reese’s Pieces gives these cookies an irresistible taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 60 servings, they’re great for parties or gatherings.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the candy or add nuts for extra texture.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love both making and eating these cookies!
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling ingredients together efficiently.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect cookies every time.
- Parchment paper: Makes it easy to drop cookies without 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
For the Cookie Mixture
- 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. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Mix in Flavorings
Add vanilla, salt, and peanut butter. Stir until smooth. Fold in oats until completely combined. Then fold in the candy.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on the counter. Using two spoons, drop cookie dough by large tablespoons onto the paper.
Step 4: Set and Store
Allow to set for about 20 minutes. Once set, store in a covered, airtight container. ENJOY!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having a casual gathering or a special occasion, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Enjoy these cookies with cold milk for the classic combination that enhances the flavors.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside fruits or other treats for an inviting presentation.
Crumbled Over Ice Cream
- Break the cookies into pieces and sprinkle them over your favorite ice cream for added texture and flavor.
Packaged as Gifts
- Place cookies in decorative bags and gift them to friends or family. They make a sweet homemade treat!
At Kids’ Parties
- Serve these cookies at children’s birthday parties. Their fun shape and sweetness will surely please any kid.
With Coffee
- Pair your cookies with a cup of coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up that satisfies your sweet tooth.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Creating the perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure delicious results every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Make sure your peanut butter and oats are fresh to enhance taste and texture.
- Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for sugar and oats to maintain the right consistency in your cookie dough.
- Boil just right: Ensure you boil the mixture for exactly one minute; too short may lead to gooey cookies, while too long may dry them out.
- Stir well: Mix until all ingredients are fully combined, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cool completely: Allow cookies to set undisturbed for about 20 minutes so they firm up properly before serving.
- Store correctly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft texture.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies pair well with several side dishes, enhancing your dessert experience. Here’s a selection of delicious options you can serve alongside these treats.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies nicely.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy contrast.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses that complement the cookie’s sweet flavors, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Blend chocolate ice cream with milk for a rich drink that pairs perfectly with these cookies.
- Peanut Butter Dip: Serve extra peanut butter mixed with honey as a dip for apple slices or pretzels on the side.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake adds another dimension of flavor that complements the cookies beautifully.
- Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and chocolate pieces provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoops of vanilla ice cream served on the side create a delightful dessert experience when enjoyed together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Timing: Don’t boil the mixture for too long. Boiling for just one minute is crucial. Overcooking can change the texture.
- Measurement Errors: Ensure you measure ingredients accurately. Even slight variations in sugar or peanut butter can affect the taste and consistency.
- Mixing Method: Mix in the oats and candy gently. Stirring too vigorously can break down the oats and make the cookies tough.
- Setting Space: Use parchment paper for setting the cookies. Not using it can lead to sticking and messy cleanup.
- Storage Missteps: Store cookies in an airtight container. Leaving them exposed can cause them to dry out or become hard.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your 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 parchment paper.
- Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds until soft. Be cautious not to overheat!
- Stovetop: Place a cookie on a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies.
What are Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful treat made without baking. They combine oatmeal, peanut butter, and sweet toppings like Reese’s Pieces.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter adds texture and extra flavor, making your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies even more enjoyable.
How do I customize my Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
You can mix in different candies, nuts, or even dried fruits to give your cookies a unique twist.
Are Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are not only easy to make but they also bring back warm memories of childhood treats. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various mix-ins. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how quick and satisfying it is!
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence, making them a beloved treat for both kids and adults. These cookies are incredibly quick to prepare, requiring no oven time. With just a handful of simple ingredients—creamy peanut butter, sweet oats, and delightful Reese’s Pieces—you can create a delicious snack that’s perfect for parties, school events, or just a cozy night in. Their chewy texture and rich flavor make them a satisfying dessert that can easily be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Get ready to enjoy these easy-to-make cookies that 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 boil for one minute before removing from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract and peanut butter until smooth. Gently fold in oats and then add the Reese's Pieces until evenly mixed.
- Drop spoonfuls of cookie mixture onto parchment paper.
- Let cookies set for about 20 minutes before transferring to an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
