When you’re craving something sweet, but don’t want to fire up the oven, these Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are here to save the day. Made with a handful of simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, these cookies are rich, chewy, and loaded with peanut butter flavor. They’re the perfect balance of creamy and hearty, and they’re great for everything from potlucks to lunchbox treats—or late-night cravings!
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a no-bake dessert that still hits all the comfort food buttons. These cookies remind me of childhood bake sales and after-school snacks. They’re super easy to make, totally fuss-free, and completely adaptable. Want chocolate? Add cocoa powder. Need a dairy-free version? Easy swaps are possible. Plus, they keep well, making them great for sharing or gifting.
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for the chocolate version)
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups quick oats
- Pinch of salt
🔄 Ingredient Swaps & Tips
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter.
- Make it chocolatey: Don’t skip the cocoa powder for a classic choco-peanut flavor.
- Add texture: Toss in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or mini chocolate chips.
- Use rolled oats if that’s what you have—just expect a slightly chewier texture.
👨🍳 How to Make It
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder (if using). Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, let the mixture boil for exactly 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add quick oats and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let cookies cool and set for about 30 minutes (or chill in the fridge to speed things up).
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week—or in the fridge for longer freshness.
💡 Tips for Success
- Boil for exactly 1 minute—too little and they won’t set, too long and they’ll be crumbly.
- Use quick oats for the best texture—they absorb the mixture perfectly.
- Let the cookies cool completely before storing to avoid stickiness.
- These are great for making ahead, and they travel well too!
🍽 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Enjoy these sweet treats with:
- A glass of cold milk or almond milk
- A side of No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls for a snack duo
- Add to a dessert tray with Easy Coconut Macaroons or
Brownie Batter Dip for a full no-bake dessert spread - Pair with Edible Cookie Dough for the ultimate spoonable treat night
- Want a baked option too? Try Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies for a soft-batch crowd favorite
🧊 Storage & Gifting Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer life, refrigerate or freeze the cookies—just thaw for a few minutes before serving.
- Stack in a festive tin or wrap in parchment and ribbon for sweet, homemade gifts!
🥘 More Recipes You’ll Love
If you love no-bake treats and sweet simplicity, don’t miss:
- This Brownie Batter Dip – instant chocolate cravings, solved
- No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls – healthy, satisfying, and snackable
- Edible Cookie Dough – spoon it straight or roll it into bites
- Easy Coconut Macaroons – chewy, sweet, and made with just 3 ingredients
📝 Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are the perfect balance of easy, nostalgic, and delicious. With no oven required and only one pot to clean, they’re a stress-free favorite you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking one straight from the fridge, this sweet classic is always a win.
👉 Made them? Tag @ChefManiac with your no-bake masterpieces and let us know—team chocolate or classic peanut butter? Don’t forget to follow for more no-fuss, big-flavor favorites!
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