I have to tell you about these Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies that have been a staple in my family for years. I still remember the first time my mom made them for me after a long day at school. The smell of melting butter and sugar filled our tiny kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. It was one of those days when I needed a little extra love, and those cookies delivered. They’ve since become a tradition, a simple treat that reminds us of home, comfort, and sweet moments shared together.

These cookies are perfect for any season, but I especially love making them in the summer when the last thing I want to do is turn on the oven. They’re quick, easy, and don’t require any baking at all! Whether it’s for a last-minute dessert, a picnic, or a cozy family gathering, these Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies always bring a smile to everyone’s face. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be adding them to your list of favorites too!

Quick and easy to make, taking just about 15 minutes of active time!
Minimal ingredients — you likely have everything you need in your pantry.
No baking required, making it perfect for hot summer days.
Family-friendly and loved by kids and adults alike!
Great for meal prep; store them in the fridge for a quick snack.
Freezer-friendly — make a double batch and save some for later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 cups quick-cook oats — make sure they’re the quick-cooking kind for the best texture.
¼ teaspoon salt — just a pinch to enhance the sweetness.
½ cup butter — unsalted is preferred, but you can use salted if that’s what you have on hand.
2 cups sugar — granulated sugar works best for that classic sweet crunch.
½ cup milk — whole milk is creamy and delicious, but any milk will do.
1 cup peanut butter — creamy or crunchy, it’s up to your preference!
2 teaspoons vanilla extract — always use pure vanilla for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Good news! This recipe is a no-bake delight, so there’s no need to preheat your oven. Just gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up some deliciousness.

Make the Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of milk.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Once it’s boiling, let it cook for exactly 1 minute. This is key for that perfect chewy texture!

Combine Ingredients

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in 1 cup of peanut butter and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until fully combined. It’ll be creamy and oh-so-inviting!
Add in 3 cups of quick-cook oats and ¼ teaspoon of salt, mixing thoroughly until the oats are completely coated.

Drop Cookies onto Wax Paper

Prepare a baking sheet or a large plate by lining it with wax paper.
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the wax paper. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little rustic charm is part of their appeal!

Allow to Cool

Let the cookies cool and set for about 30 minutes at room temperature. You can also pop them in the fridge for a quicker set if you're impatient like me!
Once they’re firm to the touch, they’re ready to devour. Enjoy the sweet success of your no-bake creation!

Variations

If you want to switch things up a bit, try adding a handful of mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for some extra crunch. You could also fold in some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist. For a lighter version, swap half of the peanut butter with Greek yogurt, or make them dairy-free by using coconut oil instead of butter. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These cookies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Serve them as a sweet treat after dinner or pack them in lunch boxes for a delightful snack. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for the ultimate comfort experience!

Storage

Store your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for up to three months, just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Helpful Notes

If you’re looking for a nut-free option, try using sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter. For a sweeter cookie, feel free to add a little extra vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you’re short on oats, you can substitute with crispy rice cereal for a fun texture. And remember, these cookies are super forgiving, so don’t stress if you need to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these cookies! Just layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for a bit before diving in.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

If you’re looking for a peanut-free option, sunflower seed butter or tahini are great alternatives. You can also use almond butter or cashew butter if you want a nutty flavor without the peanuts. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly!

How long do these cookies last?

These cookies can last up to a week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. If you keep them in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for about two weeks. And remember, freezing them is a fantastic way to save some for later!

Can I use sugar substitutes?

Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like Stevia or erythritol if you want a lower sugar option. However, the texture and sweetness may differ from the original recipe. Make sure to check the conversion rates on the substitute package to get the right amount!

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give these Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies a try! They’re not just quick and easy; they’re a little piece of nostalgia that brings joy and sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family gathering, a snack for the kids, or just treating yourself, these cookies are bound to bring smiles all around. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making memories, so don’t stress about perfection. Just enjoy the process, and I promise you’ll end up with a delightful treat that everyone will love!

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookie

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

No bake peanut butter cookies that are quick and easy to make.

Instructions

In a saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and milk.
Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla.
Add oats and salt, mixing well.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper.
Let cookies cool and set for about 30 minutes.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container.
These cookies can be refrigerated for longer shelf life.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Peanut Butter No Bake Cookie

Why You’ll Love "Peanut Butter No Bake Cookie"