Name: Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; 3 cups quick oats; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup cocoa powder

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These Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are a sweet, chewy treat that’s super easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients and no oven required, they come together quickly for a delicious dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time. I love how the peanut butter and chocolate blend perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying flavor with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and quick this recipe is. No baking, no fuss—just a few minutes of prep and you’ll have cookies ready to enjoy. The combination of peanut butter, oats, and chocolate makes these cookies irresistible. They’re perfect for when I’m craving something sweet but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Plus, they’re great for making ahead and sharing with friends or family!

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
3 cups quick oats
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup cocoa powder

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Let it boil for about 1 minute.
Once the mixture is boiling, remove it from heat and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the quick oats to the mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let them cool and set for about 30 minutes at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 18-20 cookies, depending on the size you make them. The total prep time is around 10 minutes, with 30 minutes of cooling time. So, in just 40 minutes, you’ll have these no-bake treats ready to go!

Variations

Add-ins: I like to mix in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch. You can also add some chocolate chips for an even richer flavor.
Vegan version: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk. Make sure the peanut butter is vegan-friendly too.
Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract can give these cookies a fun twist if you’re in the mood for something different.

Storage/Reheating

These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If I want to keep them longer, I’ll refrigerate them, where they’ll last up to two weeks. I usually don’t need to reheat them since they’re great straight out of the fridge or at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when the cookies are ready to set?

The cookies are ready when they feel firm to the touch and no longer sticky. Let them cool for at least 30 minutes to ensure they set properly.

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

I prefer quick oats for this recipe because they absorb the mixture better and set faster, but old-fashioned oats can work if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind the texture might be a little different.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! I’ve made these cookies with crunchy peanut butter, and it gives them a nice extra texture. It’s all about personal preference!

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe if you’re making cookies for a crowd. Just make sure you have enough space to cool the extra cookies on your baking sheet.

Why did my cookies turn out too soft?

If your cookies are too soft, it could be because the mixture didn’t boil long enough. Make sure to let the mixture boil for about a minute to allow it to thicken properly before dropping the cookies onto the baking sheet.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are a simple and satisfying treat that I can always count on when I need something sweet in a hurry. The combination of peanut butter, oats, and chocolate is a winner every time. Whether I’m making a batch for myself or sharing with friends, these cookies are always a hit!