Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful and easy treat that brings the nostalgia of childhood back with every bite. These cookies combine creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, and sweet Reese’s candy for a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick dessert, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these no-bake cookies will surely impress with their rich taste and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: With just 14 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- No baking required: Enjoy the ease of making cookies without turning on the oven—perfect for hot days!
- Family-friendly: This recipe is fun for kids to help with; they’ll love mixing and dropping the cookie dough.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or swap in different candies for a personalized treat.
- Crowd-pleaser: These cookies are always a hit at parties and gatherings, making them great for sharing.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoons
- Parchment paper
- Two spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the sugar mixture evenly without spilling.
- Parchment paper: Keeps your cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for the best flavor.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a classic, childhood treat made with oatmeal, peanut butter, and Reese’s candy!
Sweet Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Cookie Base
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 1/2 cups quick cook oatmeal
Fun Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups Reese’s Pieces candy
How to Make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Step 1: Boil the Mixture
In a large pot, add the sugar, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
– Boil for one full minute.
– Remove from heat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add vanilla extract, salt, and peanut butter to the pot.
– Stir until smooth.
– Fold in the oats until completely combined.
– Gently fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on your counter.
– Using two spoons, drop cookie dough by large tablespoons onto the parchment.
Step 4: Set and Store
Allow the cookies to set for about 20 minutes.
– Store in a covered, airtight container once set.
ENJOY!
How to Serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as an afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to please everyone.
Pair with Milk
- A classic choice, milk complements the rich flavor of peanut butter and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Enjoy your cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.
Pack for Lunch
- These cookies make an excellent addition to lunch boxes. They’re easy to grab and provide a sweet treat during the day.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your no bake cookies on a platter with other desserts like brownies and fruit for an inviting display at gatherings.
Use as Topping
- Crumble the cookies over yogurt or ice cream for added texture and flavor in your favorite desserts.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Perfecting Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Measure accurately – Use proper measuring cups for both dry and liquid ingredients to achieve the best texture.
- Don’t skip boiling – Boiling the sugar mixture for one full minute is crucial; this helps the cookies set properly.
- Mix thoroughly – Make sure all ingredients, especially the oats and candy, are well combined for even flavor distribution.
- Cool completely – Allow the cookies to cool on parchment paper until fully set, ensuring they hold their shape.
- Store correctly – Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for longer periods.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or cheddar as a savory balance against the sweet flavors.
- Nut Mix – A combination of nuts adds crunch and complements the peanut butter flavor wonderfully.
- Veggies and Hummus – Fresh veggies dipped in hummus offer a healthy side that balances out the sweetness.
- Chocolate Milkshake – This indulgent drink pairs perfectly with the flavor profile of no bake cookies.
- Granola Bars – Homemade granola bars add another sweet treat option while being easy to prepare ahead of time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Incorrect Boiling Time: Boiling the mixture for too long or too short can ruin your cookies. Make sure to boil for exactly one minute for the right consistency.
- Skipping the Salt: A pinch of salt enhances flavor, so don’t skip it! It balances the sweetness and brings out the peanut butter taste.
- Overmixing Ingredients: Stirring too much after adding oats can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
- Not Using Quick Oats: If you use regular oats instead of quick-cooking oats, the texture will be off. Stick with quick oats for best results.
- Ignoring Storage Conditions: Improper storage can cause your cookies to become hard. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store 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 freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes. This method keeps them soft and chewy.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds. This method is quick and easy.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, flipping occasionally. This gives a nice warm texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
To make them, mix sugar, milk, and butter in a pot, boil for one minute, add peanut butter and oats, then drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper.
Can I customize my Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
Yes! You can add different types of candies or nuts to suit your taste preferences.
How should I store leftover Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
What is the best way to serve Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies?
These cookies are great on their own but pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or coffee!
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike. Their ease of preparation makes them perfect for any occasion, and you can easily customize them with various mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Try this recipe today and enjoy these delicious treats!

Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone seeking a quick and delicious dessert. With creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, and the sweet crunch of Reese’s candy, these nostalgic cookies bring back fond childhood memories with every bite. In just 14 minutes, you can whip up a batch that requires no baking—ideal for warm days when you want to avoid heating up the kitchen. These cookies are family-friendly, allowing kids to join in on the fun of mixing and dropping dough. Plus, their customizable nature means you can add your favorite nuts or candies for a unique twist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these no-bake cookies are sure to impress.
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-cooking oats
- 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. Fold in oats and gently mix in Reese's Pieces candy.
- On parchment paper, drop spoonfuls of cookie dough using two spoons.
- Allow cookies to set for about 20 minutes before storing them in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg