Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
Old fashioned peanut butter no bake cookies bring back the nostalgia of classic childhood snacks. This vanilla version of the popular treat uses quick oats, butter, and sugar to create a tender, golden cookie that melts in your mouth. It is an ideal recipe for summer days or when you are craving a homemade dessert but are short on time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder optional
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups quick-cooking oats
Instructions
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or set out a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar, butter, and milk (and cocoa powder, if using). Stir until the butter melts and the mixture looks smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Once it reaches a full rolling boil, boil for 60 seconds.
- Remove from the heat. Stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the oats until fully coated and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Scoop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Let the cookies set at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes, or until firm.
Notes
For cookies that set reliably, keep the boil time consistent. If your kitchen is humid, you may need an extra 10 to 15 seconds of boiling.
Old-fashioned oats can be used, but the cookies will be chewier and more textured.
If cookies don’t set, chill them on the tray for 20 to 30 minutes.