A Sweet Childhood Memory
My Favorite is No-Bake Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies and I remember the first time I made these No-Bake Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies. It was a lazy summer afternoon, and I was just a kid craving something sweet. My mom wasn’t around to help me bake, so I had to come up with something quick and easy. Peanut butter was always a favorite in our house, and when I saw it in the pantry, I knew I could make something special. With no oven in sight, I decided to get creative with what I had. That’s how these little thumbprint cookies were born—simple, delicious, and made entirely without baking.
Simple and Fun to Make
What I love most about these cookies is how simple they are. With just five ingredients—peanut butter, powdered sugar, oats, vanilla, and jam—you can whip them up in no time. The fun part is rolling the dough into little balls and pressing your thumb right in the middle to create a perfect spot for the jam. When I make these now, I feel like that same kid, using my hands to mold the cookies and adding my favorite jam on top. It’s the kind of recipe that anyone can make, and it never fails to bring joy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cookies have become a go-to snack for so many occasions. Whether it’s a casual game day treat or a quick dessert after dinner, they never disappoint. I’ve made them for picnics, dinner parties, and even as a pre-workout snack because they’re filled with protein and fiber. The best part is that they’re super customizable. Sometimes I switch up the peanut butter for almond butter or change the jam to something more exotic like fig or apricot. No matter the variation, they’re always a hit.
A Recipe for Sharing
Over the years, I’ve shared this recipe with friends, family, and even strangers who’ve asked about them at gatherings. The look on their faces when they realize these cookies are no-bake is priceless! I always tell them that the key is to let the cookies chill in the fridge long enough to set. It’s such a rewarding recipe, both in taste and ease, and it always reminds me that the simplest recipes often bring the most joy. These No-Bake Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies aren’t just cookies—they’re little bites of happiness.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-No-Bake Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Ensure the peanut butter mixture is creamy and smooth before adding the oats. If it’s too thick, you can add a tablespoon of warm water to adjust the consistency.
- To get even-sized cookies, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough. This will help the cookies have a uniform look and ensure they set evenly in the fridge.
- Lightly wet or oil your hands before rolling the dough into balls to prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers.
- If you find it tricky to use your thumb, a rounded teaspoon or the back of a melon baller can help create even indentations.
- Be sure to let the cookies chill in the fridge for the full 30 minutes (or longer). This will allow them to firm up and hold their shape when serving.
- Swap out the jam with Nutella, chocolate hazelnut spread, or even caramel for a more decadent twist.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply let them thaw in the fridge for a few minutes before serving.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Get ready to indulge in these delightful No-Bake Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies! With just five simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats in no time. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these cookies are customizable with your favorite fruit preserves or jam. Plus, they’re a no-bake wonder, making them an easy and fun recipe to try. Store them in the fridge for a firm, delicious bite every time!
4
cookies15
minutes0
minutes250
kcal30
minutes45
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Peanut Butter Mixture
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup raspberry or strawberry jam
Directions
- Combine Peanut Butter Mixture – In a large mixing bowl, blend together the smooth peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Oats – Gradually add the rolled oats to the peanut butter mixture. Stir well until the oats are fully mixed in and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Add Jam Filling – Carefully spoon a small amount of raspberry or strawberry jam into each indentation, filling the center of each cookie.
- Serve and Enjoy – Once chilled and set, your no-bake peanut butter thumbprint cookies are ready to be enjoyed. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- silicone spatula set
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 250kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Potassium: 200mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 0IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 2mg
- Iron: 6mg
FAQ-No-Bake Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter (for a nut-free option) work well in this recipe. Just make sure the nut butter is creamy and not too runny.
Can I make these cookies sugar-free?
You can substitute the powdered sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just check the conversion to maintain the right level of sweetness.
How do I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months for longer storage.
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats or instant oats can be used. However, the texture will be softer compared to using old-fashioned rolled oats, which provide a chewier bite.
What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
These cookies are great straight out of the fridge or at room temperature. Pair them with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of tea for a perfect snack or dessert.
