Creamy, crunchy, and utterly addictive, Chocolate Cookie Peanut Butter Bites are the small dessert that delivers big satisfaction in just minutes. These little sandwich-style treats combine smooth peanut butter filling with chocolate sandwich cookies and a sprinkle of candy-coated chocolate pieces for a fun, colorful bite. Fun fact: these are essentially the grown-up cousin of the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich—only faster and way more snackable. If you love quick sweets that feel homemade without fuss, this recipe is for you.
This recipe is special because it’s incredibly simple, takes almost no prep time, and is perfect for family gatherings or last-minute after-school snacks. If you enjoy playful mashups like our other cookie recipes, you might also like how this stacks up to other dessert bites on the site; I sometimes pair them with a soft-baked cookie plate for a varied dessert spread. Try this one and see why it disappears first at any party. For an extra comparison, check out this related take on cookie bites: Chocolate Cookie Peanut Butter Bites recipe page
What is Chocolate Cookie Peanut Butter Bites?
What exactly are Chocolate Cookie Peanut Butter Bites? Think of them as tiny sandwich cookies with a creamy peanut butter surprise inside and a candy crunch on top. Curious how they got the name? Maybe someone in the kitchen shouted “chocolate cookie” while another stirred peanut butter—voilà, a name was born. Or maybe someone whispered that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and a bite-sized treat followed. Either way, these are playful, portable, and built for sharing. Don’t overthink it—grab a tray and taste one (or five). Try the recipe and you’ll get it immediately.
Why You’ll Love This:
- Crowd-pleasing comfort: The rich peanut butter filling paired with familiar chocolate sandwich cookies hits nostalgic notes while also feeling a little indulgent. The candy-coated chocolate pieces add a textural pop and visual fun.
- Wallet-friendly and quick: You don’t need specialty ingredients—just cookies, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a handful of candy pieces. Making these at home saves money compared to store-bought gift boxes and you can stretch ingredients to feed more people.
- Flavor-packed simplicity: Sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite—these hit multiple taste receptors and are great for kids and adults alike.
If you like other peanut butter-chocolate mashups, be sure to explore similar ideas like Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites for more inspiration. Ready to make them? Let’s go!
How to Make:
Quick Overview
This recipe is effortless: minimal ingredients, no baking, and super fast assembly. You’ll get creamy peanut butter filling, a satisfying crunch from the cookie, and colorful candy pieces for interest. Prep time is about 10 minutes and there is no cooking time—perfect for a quick dessert or last-minute party treat.
Approximate time: Prep 10 minutes, Chill (optional) 10–20 minutes, Total 10–30 minutes
Ingredients
12 chocolate sandwich cookies, keeping the halves intact (store-bought cookie sandwiches)
1/2 cup peanut butter, room temperature and spoonable (smooth or crunchy as you prefer)
1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted if lumpy
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces (such as M&M’s), lightly crushed or whole depending on preference
Directions
- Prepare your workspace: set out a clean cutting board or plate for assembling and a small bowl for the peanut butter filling. If you want firmer bites, place a small baking sheet in the fridge to chill the finished sandwiches later.
- Make the filling: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Use a small spatula or spoon and scrape the bowl sides to incorporate all powdered sugar. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.
- Twist the cookies: Carefully twist apart the 12 chocolate sandwich cookies, keeping each half intact. Save one half from each cookie for the top. If a cream center comes off, scrape it off—these bites use the peanut butter filling instead.
- Assemble: Spread a generous layer (about 1 tablespoon) of the peanut butter mixture onto one half of each cookie. Be consistent so bites are even.
- Add candy pieces: Press a handful of the candy-coated chocolate pieces into the peanut butter layer. You can place them whole for color or lightly press a few so they sit flush with the filling.
- Close sandwiches: Place the other cookie half back on top, gently pressing to secure the filling and candies. Avoid squeezing too hard or the filling will spill out.
- Chill or serve: Enjoy immediately for a softer, gooier bite or chill on a lined plate or tray for 10–20 minutes for a firmer texture. Store as directed below.
What to Serve With:
These bites work well as a sweet finish or part of a dessert platter. Pair them with:
- A glass of cold milk or iced coffee to balance sweetness
- Fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices for brightness
- Vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert plate
- A cheese board that includes mild cheeses and crackers for a playful sweet-and-savory contrast
Top Tips for Perfecting:
- Peanut butter texture: If using natural peanut butter, stir well first; if too loose, add a touch more powdered sugar to firm the filling.
- Candy variation: Swap candy-coated chocolates for mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or crushed pretzels for different textures.
- Even assembly: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion filling consistently so bites are uniform.
- Storage timing: Chill assembled bites briefly before stacking to avoid sticking.
- Avoid sogginess: Don’t over-spread filling to prevent cookie sides from becoming too soft.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in a single layer or with parchment between layers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Chilling keeps the filling firm and candies crisp.
Freezing: Place assembled bites on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
No reheating required: These are best served cold or at room temperature; avoid microwaving as the candies may melt and texture will change.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes—crunchy peanut butter adds pleasant texture inside each bite. Adjust powdered sugar slightly if crunchy PB is thicker.
Can I make these nut-free?
Replace peanut butter with sun butter or a seed butter (like sunflower seed butter) and use candy without nut traces to make a nut-free version.
Do I have to chill the bites?
No, chilling is optional. Chilling firms them up and makes them easier to pack, but they’re delicious served immediately.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 12 sandwich bites—perfect for a small gathering or snack plate.
Can I prepare these ahead of time for a party?
Yes—assemble and chill them up to two days in advance; keep refrigerated until serving.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Cookie Peanut Butter Bites are a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat that marry creamy peanut butter with classic chocolate cookies and a candy crunch—easy to make, budget-friendly, and great for sharing. They’re perfect when you want a quick dessert with big flavor and minimal effort. For another delightful chocolate-peanut butter no-bake idea, check out this similar recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls and see which version becomes your new favorite. Give these bites a try, share them with friends, and enjoy the smiles they create.
Chocolate Cookie Peanut Butter Bites
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Small Baking Sheet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 pieces Chocolate sandwich cookies Keep the halves intact
- 1/2 cup Peanut butter Room temperature and spoonable (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup Powdered sugar Sifted if lumpy
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Candy-coated chocolate pieces Such as M&M’s, lightly crushed or whole
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace: set out a clean cutting board or plate for assembling and a small bowl for the peanut butter filling. If you want firmer bites, place a small baking sheet in the fridge to chill the finished sandwiches later.
- Make the filling: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Twist the cookies: Carefully twist apart the 12 chocolate sandwich cookies, keeping each half intact. Save one half from each cookie for the top.
- Assemble: Spread a generous layer (about 1 tablespoon) of the peanut butter mixture onto one half of each cookie.
- Add candy pieces: Press a handful of the candy-coated chocolate pieces into the peanut butter layer.
- Close sandwiches: Place the other cookie half back on top, gently pressing to secure the filling and candies.
- Chill or serve: Enjoy immediately for a softer, gooier bite or chill on a lined plate or tray for 10–20 minutes for a firmer texture.