Ultimate Peanut Butter Cookie Dough: 1 Guilt-Free Treat

Peanut butter cookie dough has been my ultimate guilty pleasure for as long as I can remember. I’ve always loved the sweet, nutty flavor straight from the mixing bowl, but the worry of raw eggs always held me back. That’s why discovering this no-bake peanut butter cookie dough recipe was a game-changer! It’s unbelievably rich and creamy, with just the right balance of sweet peanut butter and brown sugar. The best part? It’s completely safe to eat raw, so you can dive right in with a spoon or freeze it into delicious peanut butter cookie dough balls. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth – let’s get cooking!

Hey, if you’re anything like me, you probably sneak bites of cookie dough straight from the bowl when no one’s looking. Well, get ready, because this no-bake peanut butter cookie dough recipe is going to be your new obsession! It’s so easy to whip up, and the best part is you don’t even need to turn on the oven. This edible peanut butter cookie dough is perfect for those moments when a craving hits hard and fast.

Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

* It’s incredibly quick: Seriously, you can be digging in within minutes.
* No oven required: Perfect for hot days or when your oven is already in use.
* Completely safe to eat raw: No worries about raw eggs here!
* Irresistibly creamy texture: It’s the perfect consistency for spooning or rolling.
* Packed with flavor: That classic peanut butter and brown sugar combo is divine.
* Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a dip, frosting, or delightful peanut butter cookie dough bites.
* Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love this edible peanut butter cookie dough.

Ingredients for Edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

Gather these simple peanut butter cookie dough ingredients and you’ll be enjoying a sweet treat in no time. This recipe relies on pantry staples for that classic cookie dough taste, but safe for eating raw! The combination of peanut butter and butter creates a rich, creamy base, while the sugars add that perfect sweetness. Don’t forget to heat-treat your flour – it’s crucial for making this peanut butter cookie dough safe to eat! Learn more about safe food handling practices.

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter – the star of the show, use your favorite brand!
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – makes the dough wonderfully creamy and rich
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed – for that classic moist cookie flavor
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – balances the sweetness and texture
• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
• 4 tbsp heavy cream – adds moisture and helps bind everything together
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, heat-treated – essential for safety, see instructions!
• 2 cups mini peanut butter cups, chopped – for those delightful pockets of chocolatey peanut butter goodness

How to Make Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

Ready to whip up some edible magic? Making this no-bake peanut butter cookie dough is a breeze, and I promise it’s worth every second. We’ll start with the most important step for ensuring your treat is safe to eat raw.

1. Heat-Treating Flour Safely

   First things first, we need to make sure our flour is safe to eat raw. Spread 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour evenly on a baking sheet. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until it’s hot to the touch. Let it cool completely before using. This step is crucial for eliminating any potential bacteria and making your peanut butter cookie dough recipe safe for everyone.

2. Creaming Peanut Butter and Sugars

   Now for the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Beat these together with an electric mixer on medium speed, or vigorously by hand, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and wonderfully smooth. This creaming process incorporates air, which gives our edible peanut butter cookie dough its delightful texture.

3. Incorporating Wet and Dry Ingredients

   Next, stir in the 1 1/2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract and 4 tablespoons of heavy cream into the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and the texture is smooth. Gradually add the completely cooled, heat-treated flour to the bowl. Mix on low speed or stir with a sturdy spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; we want a soft, doughy consistency, not a tough one. This is how to make peanut butter cookie dough that’s perfectly tender.

4. Folding in Mix-ins

   Finally, it’s time for the best part – the mix-ins! Gently fold in the 2 cups of chopped mini peanut butter cups using a spatula. Be tender as you incorporate them, distributing the chocolatey goodness evenly throughout the dough. This step transforms your basic dough into an irresistible peanut butter cookie dough dessert that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Once your mix-ins are incorporated, your delicious peanut butter cookie dough is ready to be enjoyed! For a firmer texture, perfect for rolling into peanut butter cookie dough balls or serving as a dip, cover the bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes.

Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

Want to elevate your edible cookie dough game? I’ve learned a few tricks that make this peanut butter cookie dough absolutely perfect every single time. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Always use creamy peanut butter; it blends much smoother and creates a better texture than crunchy for this recipe.
• Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This is key for achieving that light and fluffy texture we’re going for.
• Don’t skip the flour heat-treating step! It’s non-negotiable for safety and truly makes this a safe-to-eat raw treat.
• Chill the dough before rolling into balls. It makes them much easier to handle and prevents them from sticking to your hands.

What’s the secret to perfect edible peanut butter cookie dough?

The absolute secret is properly heat-treating your flour and using softened, not melted, butter. This ensures safety and gives you that wonderfully creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines the best peanut butter cookie dough. For more baking tips, check out the beauty of food.

Can I make peanut butter cookie dough balls ahead of time?

You absolutely can! Prepare the dough and roll it into balls up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re perfect for meal prep when a cookie dough craving strikes!

How do I avoid common mistakes with no bake peanut butter cookie dough?

A common pitfall is not heat-treating the flour, which is a safety risk. Another mistake is overmixing after adding the flour, which can make the dough tough. Finally, don’t try to roll the dough into balls when it’s too warm; chilling it first is essential! If you’re looking for other simple recipes, consider trying easy avocado toast.

Best Ways to Serve Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

This edible peanut butter cookie dough is incredibly versatile! My favorite way to enjoy it is simply by the spoonful, straight from the bowl. The rich, creamy texture and sweet peanut butter flavor are pure bliss. For a more decadent experience, try scooping it over a bowl of vanilla ice cream – it’s a match made in dessert heaven! You can also serve it as a delightful peanut butter cookie dough dip alongside pretzels or fruit for a sweet and salty combo. It’s the perfect way to satisfy any sweet tooth, no matter how you choose to serve it. For other sweet treats, explore our desserts category.

Nutrition Facts for Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

Let’s talk about what you’re indulging in with this delicious treat! A typical serving of this no-bake peanut butter cookie dough is incredibly satisfying. It’s packed with that classic peanut butter flavor and sweetness you crave.

• Serving Size: 2 tbsp
• Calories: 210
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: N/A
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: N/A
• Cholesterol: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

Once you’ve made this heavenly edible peanut butter cookie dough, you’ll want to know how to keep it fresh. Proper storage is key to enjoying this treat for days to come. After you’ve finished mixing and folding in those delicious peanut butter cups, let the dough cool down completely if it’s still warm from the heat-treating process. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out or absorbing other odors in your refrigerator.

For the best quality, store your peanut butter cookie dough in the refrigerator. It should stay delicious for about 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with more dough than you can eat within that timeframe, don’t worry! This peanut butter cookie dough freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For other make-ahead ideas, consider easy cinnamon rolls.

Reheating isn’t typically necessary for this no-bake treat, as it’s meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. However, if you prefer a slightly softer consistency straight from the freezer, you can let it sit on the counter for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy your perfectly stored and ready-to-eat peanut butter cookie dough!

Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

Why is peanut butter cookie dough safe to eat raw?

The main reason this peanut butter cookie dough is safe to eat raw is that we heat-treat the flour. Raw flour can sometimes contain harmful bacteria like E. coli. By baking or microwaving the flour until it reaches 165°F (74°C), we kill off any potential contaminants, making it safe for consumption. Plus, this recipe doesn’t use raw eggs, which is another common concern with traditional cookie dough.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free and vegan?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe! For a gluten-free peanut butter cookie dough, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. For a vegan version, use vegan butter sticks and ensure your peanut butter cups are dairy-free. The process remains the same, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs.

What happens if I don’t heat-treat the flour?

If you skip the heat-treating step for the flour, you risk consuming raw flour that may contain harmful bacteria. While it might seem like a small step, it’s the most critical part of making this edible peanut butter cookie dough safe. Always ensure your flour reaches at least 165°F (74°C) before mixing it into your dough to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.

Can I add other mix-ins to my peanut butter cookie dough?

Absolutely! This peanut butter cookie dough is a fantastic base for all sorts of additions. Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, M&Ms, sprinkles, or even chopped nuts along with the peanut butter cups. You can also experiment with different types of peanut butter, like natural or crunchy, though smooth and creamy is generally best for texture. Just be mindful of adding too many wet ingredients, which could alter the dough’s consistency.

Variations of Peanut Butter Cookie Dough You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic edible peanut butter cookie dough, the possibilities for delicious variations are endless! I love customizing this recipe to fit different needs and tastes. For those avoiding gluten, a gluten free peanut butter cookie dough is easily achieved by swapping the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for binding.

If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake, a keto peanut butter cookie dough is a fantastic option. You’ll want to use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit instead of brown and granulated sugar, and potentially swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or coconut flour. For a fun flavor twist, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to make a chocolate peanut butter cookie dough, or swirl in some caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat. You can even experiment with different types of chocolate chips or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top! For more dessert inspiration, check out berry crumble with fresh berries.

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