These No-Bake Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies are a dream come true for anyone who loves quick, indulgent treats. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have soft, chewy cookies with a rich peanut butter base, topped with a creamy chocolate kiss. The combination of sweet and salty flavors, paired with the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, makes every bite irresistible.
Perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings, these cookies are packed with nutty richness and a hint of chocolate decadence. The velvety peanut butter dough contrasts beautifully with the firm, glossy chocolate center, creating a treat that’s as satisfying to eat as it is easy to make. Plus, they’re ready in no time—no oven required!
Simple No-Bake Peanut Butter Kiss Cookie Ingredients
- ▢ 1 cup Corn Syrup (light or dark, depending on your preference for sweetness)
- ▢ 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- ▢ 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (smooth works best for even texture)
- ▢ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure extract recommended for best flavor)
- ▢ 4 cups Rice Krispies Cereal (ensure it’s fresh for maximum crunch)
- ▢ 26 chocolate Kisses (unwrapped and ready to press into cookies)
Easy Steps to Perfect No-Bake Cookies
- Combine the corn syrup and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a full boil.
- Remove from heat immediately and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies Cereal in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Scoop the mixture by approximately 1 ½ inch balls onto a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper or parchment paper.
- Press a chocolate Kiss into the center of each cookie ball, then shape the cookie around the base of the Kiss to secure it.
- Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes to set before serving. Enjoy your delicious no-bake treats!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your No-Bake Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months. If frozen, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. These cookies don’t require reheating, but if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying.
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch things up by using dark chocolate or caramel-filled Kisses for a richer flavor. You can also swap Rice Krispies for cornflakes or crushed pretzels for a different crunch. For a nut-free version, replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use a nut-free chocolate alternative. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the cookies set for a sweet-and-salty twist!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
To speed up the process, measure all your ingredients before starting. Use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture quickly and evenly. If you’re short on time, skip forming the balls and press the mixture into a lined baking dish, then top with Kisses and cut into bars once set. This method saves time and still delivers the same delicious flavor!
Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion
These cookies are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat after dinner. Serve them on a festive platter with a side of milk or coffee for dipping. For a fun twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies or sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate sets. They’re also great as edible gifts—wrap them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful touch!
Common Questions Answered
Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and flavor. What if I don’t have corn syrup? You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but the texture may be slightly different. Why are my cookies too sticky? If the mixture is too sticky, try adding a bit more cereal to balance it out. Let the mixture cool slightly before forming the balls for easier handling.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup Corn Syrup
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 4 cups Rice Krispies Cereal
- 26 chocolate Kisses
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan mix together corn syrup and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a full boil.
- Then remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla.
- Have the cereal in a big mixing bowl and add the peanut butter mixture to the cereal. Stir until well coated.
- Drop by 1 ½ inch balls onto a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper or parchment paper.
- Push a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie ball and form the cookie around the base of the kiss.
- Let cool for a few minutes so they can set up.