No-bake peanut butter delights: Bring bliss to taste buds

We’re going to give the oven a break today as we craft three delightful and affordable no-bake wonders featuring a classic duo that is always popular: peanut butter and chocolate. These easy recipes are perfect for getting the whole family involved.

Including children in baking creates lasting memories and teaches valuable skills, making the kitchen a place for sharing time together and learning.

These recipes bring bliss to your taste buds without breaking the bank. Whether you choose to indulge in high-end nut butters and imported chocolate or opt for budget-friendly store-brand peanut butter and candy coating, the magic lies in the simplicity of each delectable treat.

The recipes for Peanut Butter Truffles and No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies require melted chocolate. Melting chocolate in the microwave is a quick and easy process.

Break your chocolate into small, uniform pieces to ensure even melting. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval. This prevents overheating and maintains a smooth texture.

Typically, it takes around 1 to 2 minutes, depending on the quantity and type of chocolate. Just be patient, stir well and you’ll be rewarded with silky smooth chocolate.

The Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge

Servings: 40 pieces

Ingredients

4 cups granulated sugar

1 cup milk

2 cups peanut butter

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Procedure

Line a 9-by-13 baking pan with parchment paper and set aside. In a heavy bottomed saucepan, set over medium heat, slowly bring milk and sugar to a boil. Boil for exactly 4 minutes, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar into the milk. Overcooking leads to crumbly fudge. Remove from heat, stir in peanut butter, butter and vanilla until well incorporated and smooth. Pour into your prepared pan, let cool completely, then cut into delicious squares.

Peanut Butter Truffles

Servings: 90 pieces

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups sifted powdered sugar

1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter

8 tablespoons butter, softened

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon table salt

2 1/2 cups chocolate chips or chocolate candy coating

Procedure

Mix powdered sugar, peanut butter, butter, vanilla and salt until well combined. Shape into 1-inch balls, placing them on waxed or parchment paper. Let balls stand for 20 minutes until firm. Melt chocolate according to directions. Using a fork or skewer, dip each ball in the chocolate and let them dry. Store covered in a cool, dry place.

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Servings: 30 sandwich cookies

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter

60 buttery crackers (such as Ritz, 2 sleeves)

2 1/2 cups chocolate chips or chocolate candy coating

Procedure

Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper. Spread a generous 1 teaspoon peanut butter onto half of the crackers, then top with the remaining crackers. Put them on your prepared baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, 20 to 30 minutes. Melt chocolate according to directions. Dip each sandwich into chocolate to coat and refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.