How to Make the Best Peanut Butter Cookie Dough (No Eggs, Heat-Treated Flour)

By Jason Griffith

Introduction

Let’s be honest: who hasn’t risked it all for a spoonful of raw cookie dough? That creamy, sweet, salty, and totally reckless moment of indulgence is one of life’s purest, albeit slightly naughty, pleasures. Well, I’m here to tell you that the risk is officially gone.

This recipe for Edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough is designed specifically to be eaten with a spoon, without the health worries. It’s safe, requires absolutely no baking, and captures the intense, comforting flavor of a classic peanut butter cookie in its most perfect, raw form. Forget the oven—this is a dessert ready in about 10 minutes.

Why I Love This Recipe

I’ve spent years perfecting baked goods, but sometimes, the craving hits, and you just don’t have the time (or the willpower) to wait for an entire batch of cookies. This edible dough recipe is my go-to for instant gratification.

  • It’s Safe: By omitting eggs and using a simple step to heat-treat the flour (we’ll cover that below), we eliminate the primary risks associated with raw dough.
  • Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of sweet brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, and a touch of salt is deeply satisfying.
  • Versatile: It’s fantastic straight from the bowl, but it also makes an incredible filling, topping, or mix-in for ice cream. For another great no-bake option, check out my favorite This edible cookie dough is my favorite no-bake treat for late-night cravings.

Ingredients

IngredientAmountNotes
Creamy Peanut Butter1 cupClassic creamy, not natural/runny.
Unsalted Butter, softened½ cupRoom temperature is key for creaming.
Brown Sugar, packed¾ cupAdds moisture and a deep molasses flavor.
Granulated Sugar¼ cupFor texture and sweetness balance.
Milk2 tablespoonsAny milk works: dairy, almond, or oat.
Vanilla Extract1 teaspoonDon’t skip this flavor booster.
Heat-Treated All-Purpose Flour1 ½ cupsCrucial for safety. See “Steps” below.
Salt½ teaspoonBalances the sweetness beautifully.
Mini Chocolate Chips (optional)½ cupMini chips mix in better than standard.

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Swaps and Notes

  • Peanut Butter: While creamy is best for texture, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you like the extra bite. Avoid natural, oily peanut butter.
  • Sugar: You can use all brown sugar for a chewier, darker dough, or slightly reduce the overall sugar if you prefer it less sweet.
  • Mix-ins: Get creative! Instead of chocolate chips, try chopped Reese’s Pieces, sprinkles, or even M&M’s.
  • Making it Vegan: Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) to make this entirely vegan-friendly.

Directions

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional) | Total Time: 40 minutes

Step 1: Heat-Treat the Flour (The Safety Step)

Do not skip this step! Raw flour can contain bacteria. To make it safe:

  1. Spread the 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour evenly on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds, stirring after 30 seconds. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 160∘F.
  3. Alternatively, you can bake the flour on a baking sheet at 300∘F for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Allow the flour to cool completely before using it in the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Fats and Sugars

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the milk and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is just well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Slowly mix in the cooled, heat-treated flour and salt until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, or the dough can become tough.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-ins

If you are using them, fold in the mini chocolate chips or any other mix-ins with a spatula.

Step 6: Serve or Chill

Enjoy immediately with a spoon! If you prefer a firmer texture for rolling into balls or using as a crust, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Tips for Success

  • Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened, not melted. It should give slightly when pressed. This is key for the light, fluffy texture when you cream it with the sugars.
  • Cool the Flour Completely: Adding warm flour to the dough will melt your butter and create a greasy mess. Make sure it’s fully cooled before moving to Step 4.
  • Don’t Overmix: Once the flour is added, mix only until the dough comes together. Overmixing will develop the proteins in the flour, making the dough less tender.
  • Adjust Consistency: If your dough seems too dry (perhaps you live in a very dry climate), add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This peanut butter edible dough is a dessert unto itself, but it can be elevated!

  • The Classic Scoop: Serve it in small bowls with a dollop of whipped cream and extra sprinkles.
  • Mix-In Master: Roll it into small balls and stir it into vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a homemade peanut butter dough ice cream.
  • Dip It: Serve it with apple slicespretzels, or graham crackers for a fun, shareable snack.
  • Dessert Layer: Press it into a small pan and top with melted chocolate for a no-bake candy bar effect.

For a great pairing drink, nothing beats a tall glass of cold milk! If you’re feeling fancy, try my recipe for The Slippery Drank is my favorite sweet sipper for dessert-inspired vibes for a sweet, grown-up accompaniment.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

ComponentValue
Kcal290 kcal
Servings8
Note: This information is an estimate based on ingredients and does not include optional chocolate chips.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

This dough is fantastic for making ahead!

  • Refrigerate: Store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It will firm up considerably when cold, so let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving for easy scooping.
  • Freeze: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months. Thaw for 10 minutes before eating.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a peanut butter fanatic, you’re in the right place. Give these other top-rated Chef Maniac recipes a try:

Final Thoughts

This Edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough is dessert freedom in a bowl. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgic flavor, easy prep, and zero-risk indulgence. Go ahead—eat that second (or third) spoonful. You’ve earned it.

If you try this recipe, please let me know what you think! Did you use chocolate chips or another mix-in? Tag us on social media!