Peanut Butter Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Peanut Butter Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are a quick and delicious treat that require no oven time. These chewy, nutty cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort, making them a favorite for busy days or last-minute snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 3 cups old fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Cover a baking sheet with wax paper and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, stir together the brown sugar, butter, and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Once boiling, maintain a rolling boil for one minute while continuing to stir.
- Step 3: Turn off the heat and stir in the peanut butter until smooth. Then add the vanilla, oats, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until well combined.
- Step 4: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion 2-tablespoon amounts of the cookie mixture onto the wax paper-lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each portion to allow the cookies to set comfortably.
- Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for about an hour, or until the cookies are firm. Enjoy them chilled or bring to room temperature before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for added texture.
- For a chocolate twist, add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the sugar, butter, and milk mixture before boiling.
- Swap old fashioned oats for quick oats if you prefer a softer cookie.
- Press a few chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top before chilling for extra garnish and flavor.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To soften chilled cookies, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating. These no-bake cookies do not freeze well as they can become crumbly upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of smooth peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter works fine, but it may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to stir the peanut butter well before mixing, as natural versions often separate.
Do these cookies have to be refrigerated?
Yes, refrigeration helps the cookies firm up and hold their shape since they contain no flour or eggs. Leaving them at room temperature for too long may cause them to become soft and sticky.
PrintPeanut Butter Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies Recipe
Delicious and easy-to-make Peanut Butter Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies combining creamy peanut butter, rich brown sugar, and hearty oats. Ready in under an hour with no oven required, these classic treats are perfect for a quick snack or dessert that sets in the fridge for a chewy, satisfying bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 3 cups old fashioned oats
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Work Surface: Cover a baking sheet with wax paper and set aside to prevent the cookies from sticking after shaping.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and milk. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Maintain the boil and continue stirring for one full minute to ensure the sugar dissolves fully and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Peanut Butter and Flavorings: Turn off the heat. Stir the smooth peanut butter into the hot sugar mixture until completely smooth. Then add the vanilla extract and mix well to incorporate all flavors.
- Combine with Oats: Add the old fashioned oats and a pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture. Stir thoroughly until all oats are evenly coated and the mixture is uniform.
- Shape Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop 2-tablespoon portions of the mixture onto the prepared wax paper, spacing them apart to allow for minimal spreading.
- Chill Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least one hour or until the cookies are firm and set. Once chilled, enjoy them cold or allow them to reach room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Use natural, smooth peanut butter for the creamiest texture.
- Ensure to maintain the rolling boil for the full minute to properly set the cookies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a nuttier texture, you can use old-fashioned rolled oats or quick oats as per preference.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, adjust brown sugar slightly, but keep cooking times consistent.
Keywords: no-bake cookies, peanut butter cookies, oatmeal cookies, easy cookie recipe, quick dessert
