Sharing is caring!

Quick, easy, and delicious! These no-bake chocolate peanut butter cookies are perfect for busy days or holiday cookie exchanges. A must-try treat!

(This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Disclaimer for more information.)

Were you an 80’s or 90’s kid?

Then you may remember a childhood favorite from the cafeteria elementary school days! Today’s recipe is an easy peasy no-bake cookie recipe. These cookies remind me of simpler times—snacking on no-bake cookies during school days in the ‘90s.

When life gets busy, but you’re still craving something sweet, this no-bake chocolate peanut butter cookie recipe has your back. You can whip up these delicious treats with just a handful of simple ingredients in no time.

Whether you’re planning a holiday cookie exchange, a last-minute dessert, or just want to make something nostalgic for your family, these cookies are a great choice. Plus, no oven is required!

Delicious No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Baking Required: Skip the oven—just cook on the stovetop and let the cookies set in the fridge.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in about an hour, including cooling time.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of these pantry staples are probably already in your kitchen.
• Great for Beginners: Even first-time bakers will achieve the best results with this foolproof recipe.
• Perfect for Sharing: Make a batch to share at cookie exchanges or parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Butter: Unsalted is best, but salted works too.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar gives these cookies their sweet, classic flavor.
• Milk: Regular milk works well, but you can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• Cocoa: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the perfect balance of chocolate flavor.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Opt for the regular kind, not natural peanut butter, to ensure a smooth texture.
• Quick Oats: These mix easily and set quickly, making them ideal for this recipe.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor to the chocolate mixture. This one is my favorite for ALL recipes!
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness.

---

How to Make No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Prepare Your Workspace

Before you start cooking, line two cookie sheets with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pre-measure your ingredients, as the process moves quickly once you start cooking!!

Make the Chocolate Mixture

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, cocoa, salt, and milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil for exactly 1 minute—this is key for achieving the perfect texture.

Mix In Peanut Butter and Oats

Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully melted. Gradually add the quick oats, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a cohesive dough.

Scoop and Set

Use a medium cookie scoop or large spoon to drop even portions of the dough onto the prepared cookie sheets. Flatten slightly if desired.

Cool and Enjoy

---

Refrigerate the cookies for 30-60 minutes until firm. Serve at room temperature for a soft, chewy treat.

Adding These Cookies to Your Holiday Cookie Exchange

These no-bake chocolate peanut butter cookies are the ultimate addition to any cookie exchange. Here’s why:

• No Oven Time: Skip waiting for the oven to pre-heat!
• Perfect for Gifting: Package them in festive tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a sweet, homemade touch.
• Customizable: Add chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or sprinkles to make each batch unique.

Pair these cookies with other treats like our classic eggnog cookies, mini bundt cakes, or gingerbread cutouts for an irresistible holiday platter.

More Easy Holiday Treats You’ll Love:

• 15 Minute Christmas Rice Krispie Treats
• The Best Christmas Grinch Cake Pops Recipe
• Super Easy Holiday Gingerbread Cake (Pudding Cake)

Why This Recipe is Great for Beginner Bakers

If you say “But I’m not a baker…,” these cookies are a fantastic first recipe to try. The steps are straightforward, and there’s no worrying about oven temperatures or bake times. Plus, the forgiving nature of the chocolate mixture means you can adjust it slightly as needed.

For best results:

• Stick to Quick Oats: Other types like old-fashioned oats or steel-cut oats won’t set as well.
• Measure Carefully: Especially with the sugar and cocoa, to maintain the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
• Don’t Skip the Boil Time: Boiling for 1 minute ensures the cookies hold together properly.

How to Store Your Cookies

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. They’re best enjoyed slightly chilled or at room temperature.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Defrost in the fridge overnight.

Recipe Variations and Add-Ins

• Crunchy Texture: Use chunky peanut butter or add ¼ cup of chopped peanuts.
• Festive Touch: Mix in colorful sprinkles for holidays or special occasions.
• Extra Chocolatey: Drizzle with melted chocolate once set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Quick oats work best because they absorb the chocolate mixture evenly, but you can pulse old-fashioned oats in a food processor for a similar texture.

How do I prevent sticky cookies?
Let the mixture cool slightly before scooping, and refrigerate the cookies in a single layer on wax paper.

Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes! Try swapping granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener, keeping in mind it may alter the texture slightly.

What’s the best way to gift these cookies?
Place them in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper or stack in cellophane bags for a thoughtful gift.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your saucepan is large enough to hold the chocolate mixture and oats.

With their perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter, these no bake cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re adding them to a holiday spread or just looking for a quick sweet treat, they’re a simple recipe you’ll return to time and time again!

Happy (no) Baking!

Sharing is caring!