The Ultimate Guide to No-Bake Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

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Sometimes, you just want a quick, no-fuss dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without requiring an oven. That’s where no-bake chocolate and peanut butter cookies come in! These cookies are rich, chewy, and loaded with chocolatey goodness, balanced perfectly by creamy peanut butter. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these cookies are easy to make, delicious to eat, and guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Why No-Bake Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies Are the Perfect Treat

  • Quick and Easy: No oven required, and the cookies come together in less than 30 minutes.
  • Minimal Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry.
  • Customizable: Add-ins like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even a peanut butter drizzle make these cookies your own.
  • Great for All Ages: Kids can help shape the cookies, making it a fun family activity.

Ingredients for No-Bake Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:

Cookie BaseQuantity
Sugar1 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter1/2 cup
Milk1/2 cup
Cocoa powder1/4 cup
Creamy peanut butter1/2 cup
Vanilla extract1 teaspoon
Kosher salt1/4 teaspoon
Rolled oats (gluten-free, if needed)3 cups
Peanut Butter Drizzle (Optional)Quantity
Creamy peanut butter3 tablespoons
Coconut oil2 teaspoons

Step-by-Step Guide to Making No-Bake Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

1. Prep Your Workspace

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will make it easy to transfer and cool the cookies later.

2. Cook the Cookie Base

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder.
  2. Stir continuously until the butter and sugar are completely melted, creating a smooth mixture.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for exactly 1 minute. Be careful not to overcook, as this can affect the texture of your cookies.

3. Combine the Ingredients

  1. Pour the hot mixture into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the rolled oats and mix thoroughly until the oats are evenly coated in the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.

4. Scoop and Shape the Cookies

  • Use a medium cookie scoop or a tablespoon to scoop portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  • If desired, gently roll and flatten the dough between your palms to create uniform shapes. You can also leave them as-is for a rustic look.

5. Add the Peanut Butter Drizzle (Optional)

  1. Melt the peanut butter and coconut oil together in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Stir to combine.
  2. Use a spoon to drizzle the mixture over the cookies.
  3. Keep in mind: if you’re packing these cookies for travel or on-the-go snacking, it’s best to skip the drizzle, as it can soften at room temperature.

6. Chill the Cookies

  • Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes, or until the cookies are firm.
  • If you added the drizzle, make sure to store the cookies in the refrigerator so the topping stays intact.

Pro Tips for Perfect No-Bake Cookies

  • Timing Matters: Boiling the mixture for exactly 1 minute is crucial for the cookies to set properly. Under-boiling can make them too soft, while over-boiling can make them crumbly.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and peanut butter for the best flavor.
  • Customize to Your Liking: Add mix-ins like shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

NutrientAmount
Calories130
Total Fat6g
Carbohydrates17g
Protein3g
Sugar12g

FAQs About No-Bake Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter works just as well and adds a bit of texture to the cookies.

2. How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’ve added the drizzle, keep them refrigerated to maintain the firmness of the topping.

3. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk.

4. Are these cookies gluten-free?

As long as you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

5. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

6. What’s the best way to serve these cookies?

Enjoy them straight from the fridge for a firmer texture or let them sit at room temperature for a softer bite.

Why You’ll Love Making These Cookies

No-bake chocolate and peanut butter cookies aren’t just a dessert—they’re a stress-free solution to your sweet cravings. From their rich, chocolatey flavor to their chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies deliver everything you could want in a treat. Plus, the lack of baking means less time spent in the kitchen and more time enjoying the results.

Your Turn: Try These Cookies Today!

Now that you know how to make these no-bake chocolate and peanut butter cookies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get started. Share them with your family, pack them for a picnic, or keep them all to yourself (we won’t judge). If you loved this recipe, share it with friends and let them join in the fun!

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The Ultimate Guide to No-Bake Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 cookies

Description

Craving a sweet treat without turning on the oven? These no-bake chocolate and peanut butter cookies are the perfect solution! Rich, chewy, and loaded with chocolatey goodness, they’re quick to make and customizable with your favorite add-ins. Perfect for dessert, a snack, or anytime you need a little indulgence.


Ingredients

For the Cookie Base:

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 cups rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)

Optional Peanut Butter Drizzle:

  • 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

Instructions

  • Prepare the Workspace:
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
  • Cook the Cookie Base:
    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder.
    • Stir continuously until the butter and sugar melt completely, forming a smooth mixture.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for exactly 1 minute.
  • Combine the Ingredients:
    • Pour the hot mixture into a large mixing bowl.
    • Stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
    • Add rolled oats and mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
  • Shape the Cookies:
    • Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
    • Shape the cookies with your hands or leave them rustic, depending on your preference.
  • Add the Optional Drizzle:
    • Melt peanut butter and coconut oil together in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Stir to combine.
    • Drizzle over the cookies using a spoon.
  • Chill the Cookies:
    • Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes, or until the cookies are firm.

Notes

  • Boiling Tip: Boil the mixture for exactly 1 minute to ensure proper setting. Over-boiling can result in crumbly cookies.
  • Customization: Add shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or mini chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If drizzled, keep refrigerated.
  • Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Snack
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

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