Make these Christmas Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies with peanut butter, marshmallow crème, buttery crackers, and rich melted chocolate. No oven is required, and best of all, they’re topped with sprinkles for that festive flair!
Ever have one of those “oh no, I need cookies right now” moments? That’s exactly how these little gems came to life in my kitchen. It was a busy December evening, the kind where everything feels rushed, and I still had a holiday party to prep for. Meanwhile, my oven was already stuffed with casseroles. I glanced at it and thought, Nope, not today.
So, I raided my pantry—because sometimes necessity is the mother of delicious invention. Ritz crackers? Perfectly buttery. Peanut butter and marshmallow crème? A dreamy combo. Chocolate? Always the answer. And just like that, these no-bake cookies were born.
Now they’re a family tradition. My kids love dunking them in chocolate (and sneakily eating the sprinkles). Plus, they’re a hit at every gathering. Honestly, it’s a recipe that saves me time and makes me look like I have my life together. Win-win, right?
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
What makes these cookies so special, you ask? Oh, let me count the ways:
- Sweet meets salty: That Ritz cracker crunch paired with creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate? Chef’s kiss.
- Zero oven time: These cookies are a lifesaver especially when your oven’s already working overtime.
- Totally customizable: You can use dark chocolate for a fancy vibe, or on the other hand, white chocolate for a snowy holiday look.
- Kid-approved: They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and the sprinkles? Let’s just say they make clean-up worth it.
Ingredient Notes
Alright, let’s talk ingredients—because every piece of this puzzle plays a part in making these cookies unforgettable.
- Ritz Crackers: These buttery little wonders are the backbone of the recipe. If needed, just swap them out for a gluten-free option!
- Peanut Butter: Creamy is key here for that smooth filling. Alternatively, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Marshmallow Crème: This adds a soft, fluffy texture that pairs so well with peanut butter. No marshmallow crème? Try whipped cream cheese instead.
- Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Dark chocolate for the purists, milk for the sweet tooths, and white if you’re feeling fancy.
- Holiday Sprinkles: Optional, but let’s be real—are they really optional? They’re like the glitter of the cookie world.
How To Make These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
This recipe isn’t just easy—it’s practically foolproof. Let’s break it down so you’re set up for success.
- Set the Stage: Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This way, you’ll save yourself from a sticky situation later.
- Spread the Love: Lay out 24 crackers. Mix peanut butter and marshmallow crème in a bowl until it’s smooth and spreadable. Then, spread a layer on each cracker like you’re buttering toast (but, you know, fancier).
- Sandwich Time: Top each cracker with a second one to make little sandwiches. Don’t squish them—just a gentle press will do.
- Melt the Chocolate: Pop your chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts (15-30 seconds), stirring in between. Otherwise, you risk burning the chocolate, which is nobody’s friend.
- Get Dipping: Now for the messy (and fun) part. Dip each sandwich in the melted chocolate, letting the extra drip off. Place them on your baking sheet.
- Sprinkle & Chill: Add sprinkles if you’re feeling festive. Then, pop the tray in the fridge or freezer. Once the chocolate hardens, you’re ready to dig in!
Pro Tip:
Here’s a handy tip to take your cookies up a notch. Consider tempering the chocolate you’ll use for dipping. While it may sound fancy, it’s actually doable at home. Tempering involves melting and cooling the chocolate to give it a glossy finish that breaks with a satisfying snap. The end result is a shine and a texture that won’t melt at room temperature.
When you dip your cookies in tempered chocolate they not only look more enticing with their crispy coating but they also hold up better. This makes them perfect for gifting or displaying on your table. Biting into one is a delight—the contrast, between the crunchy cookie, creamy filling, and crisp chocolate shell offers an amazing sensory experience. To ensure tempering every time rely on a digital thermometer to help you hit the right temperatures.
By taking this step you’ll give your homemade cookies that professional touch that is simply irresistible during the holiday season!
Storage Options
Wondering how long these no-bake Christmas chocolate peanut butter cookies will last? Here’s the scoop:
Want To Save This Recipe?
- At room temp, they’ll stay fresh for about 2 weeks (assuming they even last that long).
- Additionally, in the fridge, they’re good for a month—perfect if you’re in a warmer climate.
- Freeze them for up to 4 months. They’re lifesavers for unexpected guests or sudden cookie cravings.
Here’s how to freeze these no-bake chocolate peanut butter cookies, it’s quite simple:
- Prepare for Freezing: First, arrange your no-bake cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Initial Freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours. This step ensures the cookies are firm enough to handle without losing their shape.
- Transfer to Storage: Once frozen solid, transfer the cookies into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn.
- Storage Duration: Your cookies will keep well in the freezer for up to 4 months.
- Serving: When you’re ready to enjoy, just take the cookies out and allow them to come to room temperature. They’ll be just as delicious as when they were first made!
By following these steps, you can enjoy your no bake cookies even weeks after making them.
Variations & Substitutions
Let’s get creative! Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Swap the Chocolate: Try white chocolate for a snowy holiday look or dark chocolate if you’re feeling extra fancy.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pretzels or toffee bits on top before the chocolate sets.
- Change the Filling: Peanut butter isn’t your thing? You can substitute peanut butter with another type of nut butter in no-bake cookies, and they will still taste fantastic. Whether you’re dealing with peanut allergies or simply looking for a flavor change, there are plenty of options available.
Here are a few alternatives you might consider:
- Almond Butter: Offers a slightly nuttier and richer taste, adding depth to your cookies.
- Cashew Butter: Provides a creamy texture with a mild flavor, perfect if you’re seeking subtlety.
- Sunflower Seed Butter: Great for those looking for a nut-free alternative, with a taste similar to peanut butter.
These substitutes generally work in a 1:1 ratio with peanut butter, making the swap straightforward and maintaining the consistency of your cookies. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and creating your perfect no-bake treat!
What to Serve These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies With
These no-bake Christmas chocolate peanut butter cookies are fabulous solo, but they shine even brighter when paired with something complementary:
- Mini Christmas Trifles: Soft, creamy layers that balance out the crunch of these cookies. This pairing adds elegance to your dessert table and brings a variety of textures to the mix. (Trust me, this duo is chef’s kiss.)
- Hot Cocoa: Dunking these cookies into a warm mug of cocoa? Pure bliss.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble one of these bad boys over a scoop for a simple, decadent dessert.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use different types of chocolate for dipping?
A: Definitely! You can try using different kinds of chocolate for dipping, like milk, dark or even white chocolate.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Totally! Just swap the Ritz crackers for a gluten-free alternative.
Q: Do I have to use marshmallow crème?
A: Nope! Whipped cream cheese or even plain peanut butter works if you’re in a pinch.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: You bet! They’ll keep for up to 4 months in the freezer. Perfect for make-ahead treats.
Q: Any tips for getting the kids involved in the preparation?
A: To get the kids involved in the preparation encourage them to join in by spreading the peanut butter mixture and adding sprinkles. It’s a simple way for them to be part of the holiday baking experience!
Delicious No-Bake Cookie Alternatives to Try
If you love no-bake cookies but crave some variety, here are a few other delicious options that might hit the spot:
- No-Bake Thin Mints
These refreshing, minty delights are a perfect no-bake treat. With their chocolatey coating and crisp texture, they’re as effortless as they are irresistible. - No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cookies
Packed with a satisfying crunch and the classic combo of peanut butter and chocolate, these cookies are a quick and indulgent fix for any craving. - No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Sweet, nutty, and packed with coconut goodness, these praline-inspired cookies bring a tropical twist to the no-bake world.
Whether you bake them or not, these recipes offer the same convenience and mouthwatering flavor as classic no-bake cookies. They’re perfect for when you’re short on time but big on dessert dreams!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
No-Bake Christmas Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 48 Ritz Crackers Or any buttery golden round crackers for a crisp, savory base.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter The smooth texture provides a rich, nutty filling.
- ½ cup marshmallow crème Adds a sweet, fluffy contrast to the peanut butter.
- 1 lb chocolate (coarsely chopped and melted) Dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
- Holiday sprinkles (optional): For a festive finish and additional texture.
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Arrange 24 crackers evenly on the sheet as the base for the cookies.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and marshmallow crème. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Using a small spatula or butter knife, evenly spread the filling mixture onto each of the crackers. Place another cracker on top of each to form a sandwich, gently pressing to secure.
- Place the coarsely chopped chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 15 to 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Using a fork or dipping tool, submerge each sandwich cookie into the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing the dipped cookies back onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Optionally, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with festive holiday sprinkles. Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator or freezer and allow the chocolate to harden completely before serving.
Notes
Gluten-Free Adaptation
To make these cookies gluten-free, replace the Ritz crackers with your preferred gluten-free alternative. Choose crackers that maintain a similar buttery and crisp texture to ensure the cookies retain their signature crunch and balance of flavors.Nutrition
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
