Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies: A Quick and Delicious Treat
Introduction to the Dish
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with the simplicity of a no-bake recipe. Perfect for those days when you crave something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven, these cookies are not only quick and easy to prepare but also irresistibly delicious. Ideal for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or just a simple afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients Overview
Peanut Butter
- Why This Ingredient? Peanut butter is the key ingredient that gives these cookies their creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Health Benefits: Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats, which can help maintain energy levels and support heart health.
Oats
- Why This Ingredient? Oats add a chewy texture to the cookies and help bind the ingredients without needing to bake.
- Health Benefits: Oats are high in fiber, which aids in digestion and can help manage cholesterol levels.
Sugar and Milk
- Why These Ingredients? Sugar adds sweetness, while milk helps to dissolve the sugar and bind the mixture together.
- Health Benefits: Milk provides calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health, though sugar should be consumed in moderation.
Cocoa Powder
- Why This Ingredient? Cocoa powder offers a hint of chocolate flavor that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
- Health Benefits: Cocoa is rich in antioxidants known as flavonoids, which can improve heart health and lower blood pressure.
Substitutions
To accommodate various dietary needs or preferences, consider these alternatives:
- Peanut Butter: For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter can be used as a replacement.
- Milk: Any non-dairy milk, like almond milk or oat milk, can be used for a vegan version.
- Sugar: To reduce the sugar content, substitute part of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Recipe
Yield: Makes about 24 cookies
Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Combine with Peanut Butter and Oats: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the oats until well coated.
- Shape Cookies: Drop tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or a silicone mat. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Cool and Set: Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature until set, about 30 minutes.
Nutrition
Each cookie approximately contains:
- Calories: 100
- Carbs: 12g
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 2g
Storage Instructions
Store Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying sweet treat. With their rich flavors and chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
FAQ
- Can I add other ingredients to these cookies? Yes, consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- How can I make these cookies healthier? Reduce the sugar and substitute half of the oats with rolled oats for more fiber
Ingredients
- 1 c. granulated sugar
- 3/4 c. packed brown sugar
- 1/2 c. (1 stick) butter, cut into cubes
- 1/2 c. milk
- 1 c. smooth peanut butter
- 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 2 1/2 c. old-fashioned oats
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugars, butter, and milk. Bring mixture to a boil and boil 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and salt until combined, then stir in oats.
- Drop tablespoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet and let set until cooled and hardened, about 30 minutes.