Craving the classic peanut butter no-bake cookie but looking for something with a modern twist? No Vintage Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies ditch the traditional oats and cocoa in favor of a smooth, creamy texture and a simpler flavor profile that lets the peanut butter shine. These updated no-bake treats are quick to prepare, require no oven time, and offer a deliciously soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Perfect for after-school snacks, potlucks, or a late-night dessert, these cookies can be made in under 20 minutes with just a few pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 18 to 20 cookies.
- One cup creamy peanut butter
- One half cup unsalted butter
- One cup granulated sugar
- One third cup whole milk or plant-based milk
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- Two cups crushed graham crackers (or finely ground digestive biscuits)
- Pinch of salt
Optional:
- One quarter cup mini chocolate chips (for topping)
- One tablespoon honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 30 to 45 minutes
- Total time: 40 to 55 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Measure and organize all your ingredients before you begin. This recipe comes together quickly and is easier to manage when ingredients are ready.
Step 2: Heat the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, milk, and salt.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to boil.
- Allow it to boil for exactly one minute, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture
- Immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add the crushed graham crackers and mix until a thick, scoopable dough forms.
- If adding honey or maple syrup, stir it in at this stage for extra richness.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers to shape into cookies.
- If using, sprinkle with mini chocolate chips while still warm.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cookies for 30 to 45 minutes or until firm.
- Once set, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled for a firm texture, or let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes for a softer bite.
- Pair with cold milk or hot coffee for the perfect snack break.
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decorative and rich finishing touch.
- Stack and wrap as homemade gifts or school lunch treats.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 80 milligrams |
Nutritional Benefits:
- Peanut butter provides plant-based protein and healthy fats to support energy and satiety.
- Graham crackers offer a lightly sweet, whole-grain base that holds the cookies together without traditional oats.
- No cocoa or heavy syrups makes the flavor cleaner and more peanut-forward.
Tips for Success
- Do not overboil the sugar mixture; boiling for more than one minute may cause the cookies to harden too much.
- Use natural peanut butter for a slightly nuttier flavor, but stir it well to ensure consistency.
- If your mixture seems too dry, add a splash of milk or an extra spoon of peanut butter.
- For a crunchier version, mix in chopped roasted peanuts or sunflower seeds before scooping.
Variations to Try
- Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty profile.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a fruitier version.
- Stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed meal for added fiber and texture.
- Make a sandwich cookie by placing a square of dark chocolate between two no-bake cookies before chilling.
These No Vintage Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are a modern take on an old favorite — creamy, easy to make, and packed with nutty flavor. With no oats and no cocoa, the simplicity of the ingredients allows the peanut butter to take center stage, making them an ideal treat for kids, adults, and anyone looking for a quick dessert without turning on the oven.