These Classic No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are a quick and easy treat that combines rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats. With no oven required, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required – Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes, with minimal ingredients.
Rich & Chocolatey – The perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
Kid-Friendly – A great recipe for little helpers in the kitchen.
Classic & Nostalgic – A beloved childhood favorite.

Ingredients

1¾ cups white sugar
½ cup milk
½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups quick-cooking oats
Pinch of salt

Directions

Prepare the Cookie Mixture:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
Once boiling, let it continue to boil for 1 minute without stirring. This ensures the sugar dissolves properly and helps the cookies set correctly.

Add Remaining Ingredients:

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the peanut butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the oats and a pinch of salt, stirring until all ingredients are well combined.

Form the Cookies:

Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Set the Cookies:

Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
Once set, they are ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Setting Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 115 kcal per cookie

Variations

Crunchy Texture: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
Extra Chocolatey: Stir in chocolate chips after removing from heat.
Coconut Twist: Add ½ cup shredded coconut for extra flavor.
Healthier Option: Replace half the sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: Keep chilled for a firmer texture, up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Why didn’t my cookies set properly?

If the mixture doesn’t boil long enough, the cookies may not firm up. Ensure you let it boil for a full 60 seconds.

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, but the cookies will have a chewier texture.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes! Try using coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative, though the texture may vary.

Do I need to refrigerate these cookies?

No, but chilling them gives them a firmer consistency.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries make great additions.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter work well.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk.

How do I prevent the cookies from sticking?

Make sure to use parchment paper or a non-stick silicone baking mat.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, they store well for several days, making them a great make-ahead treat.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.

Conclusion

These Classic No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or sweet indulgence, they’re sure to be a family favorite!

Classic No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Classic No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies blend rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and oats for a quick, delicious, no-oven treat!

Ingredients

Scale

1¾ cups white sugar
½ cup milk
½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups quick-cooking oats
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Stir until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Let boil for 1 minute without stirring.
Add Ingredients:
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Add oats and salt, mixing until well combined.
Shape Cookies:
- Drop spoonfuls onto a lined baking sheet.

Set & Serve:
- Let cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Enjoy once firm.

Notes

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Can substitute almond butter for a peanut-free version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: Setting Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American