These rich, chewy peanut butter no‑bake cookies are incredibly easy to make. No oven required, and they come together in just a few steps, making them the perfect treat for any time of year. Peanut Butter No‑Bake Cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love making these peanut butter no‑bake cookies because they come together so quickly and require minimal ingredients. They’re the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy peanut butter, and they set up nicely without needing an oven. Whether I’m craving a snack or need something to take to a gathering, these cookies always hit the spot. They also store well, so I can keep them on hand for whenever I want a treat.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup milk (whole milk is best for richness)
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups quick‑cooking oats

directions

First, I line a baking sheet or countertop with parchment paper to set the cookies on once they’re ready.
I combine the butter, sugar, and milk in a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
Once it reaches a full, rolling boil, I let it boil for exactly 60 seconds while stirring constantly.
After 60 seconds, I remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
I quickly fold in the oats until fully coated with the peanut butter mixture.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, I drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the parchment paper. I gently press them down to flatten them if I prefer a thinner cookie.
I let the cookies set at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes until they are firm enough to eat. If I’m in a hurry, I can place them in the fridge to speed up the process.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 to 34 cookies, depending on how large I scoop them.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Set time: 30–60 minutes

storage/reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If I want them chilled, I can refrigerate them, which will keep them fresh for up to a week as well. They also freeze beautifully—just store them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll last up to 3 months. To enjoy, I let them thaw at room temperature or place them in the fridge overnight.

Variations

Chocolate twist: I sometimes add 2 to 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the butter mixture for a chocolate-peanut butter flavor.
Nut-free: If I need a nut-free version, I can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or Biscoff spread.
Crunchy: I like to use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for an extra texture.
Vegan: For a vegan version, I swap the butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk.

FAQs

What if the cookies stay too gooey?

If the cookies aren’t setting properly, it might mean the sugar mixture didn’t boil for long enough. I make sure the mixture reaches a full, rolling boil and continues for 60 seconds to ensure it sets properly.

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

Yes, but I usually pulse old-fashioned oats a few times in a food processor to break them down a bit, as quick oats absorb the mixture better and result in a smoother texture.

What kind of peanut butter should I use?

I recommend using a creamy, commercial-style peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) for the best texture. Natural peanut butter can make the cookies a bit softer and may not set as well.

Can I refrigerate the cookies?

Yes, I can refrigerate the cookies to set them more quickly or simply to store them for later. Refrigerating them also makes them firmer and a little easier to handle.

How do I freeze these cookies?

To freeze the cookies, I let them set at room temperature first, then place them in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, I transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

These peanut butter no‑bake cookies are a must-try treat if I’m looking for something quick and easy to make. They have a deliciously chewy texture, a perfect balance of sweetness, and a satisfying peanut butter flavor. Best of all, they come together with minimal effort, and they’re perfect for any occasion or just to enjoy as a snack.