18 Delicious Easy Peanut Butter Recipes for Beginners

Dive into the creamy, dreamy world of peanut butter with our roundup of 18 Delicious Easy Peanut Butter Recipes for Beginners! Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack, a cozy dessert, or a surprising savory dish, peanut butter is your secret weapon for adding richness and flavor in no time. Perfect for home cooks looking to spice up their routine, these recipes promise to delight your taste buds and simplify your cooking adventures. Let’s get spreading!

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Start your day with a creamy, dreamy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for busy mornings or a post-workout refuel!

Ingredients

• 1 large ripe banana, frozen
• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Ice cubes (optional, for thickness)

Instructions

1. Peel the banana and break it into chunks before freezing for at least 2 hours for optimal creaminess.
2. In a blender, combine the frozen banana chunks, 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter, 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. If you prefer a thicker smoothie, add a few ice cubes and blend again until smooth.
4. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

The magic of this smoothie lies in the frozen banana, which gives it an irresistibly creamy texture without any dairy. It’s a foolproof way to enjoy a healthy treat that feels indulgent.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the blender.

Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Who doesn’t love the classic peanut butter cookie? This easy version delivers all the nutty, sweet goodness with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined.
3. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are just starting to brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

These cookies are irresistibly chewy with a slightly crisp edge, thanks to the simple yet perfect balance of ingredients.

Tip: For an extra touch, press a few chocolate chips into the tops of the cookies right after they come out of the oven.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

There’s nothing quite like the classic Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich to bring back childhood memories with every bite. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of your favorite bread (white, wheat, or whole grain)
• 2 tablespoons smooth or crunchy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon grape jelly (or your preferred flavor)
• 1 teaspoon butter (optional, for toasting)

Instructions

1. Lay out the two slices of bread on a clean surface.
2. Spread 2 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly on one slice of bread.
3. Spread 1 tablespoon of jelly evenly on the other slice of bread.
4. Press the two slices together, with the peanut butter and jelly sides facing each other, to form a sandwich.
5. If you prefer a warm sandwich, heat 1 teaspoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.

The magic of this sandwich lies in the contrast between the creamy peanut butter and the sweet, fruity jelly, all hugged by soft or crispy bread. It’s a timeless combo that never fails to delight.

Tip: For an extra crunch, try using toasted bread or adding a layer of banana slices between the peanut butter and jelly.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Start your morning with these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Breakfast Bars, a perfect blend of nutty and sweet that’ll keep you fueled for hours.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/2 cup honey. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp salt until everything is evenly coated.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
5. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.

These bars are a game-changer for busy mornings, offering a chewy texture with a rich peanut butter flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of honey and chocolate.

Tip: For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet and salty flavor profile.

Simple Peanut Butter Fudge

Who knew that with just a few pantry staples, you could whip up a batch of creamy, dreamy peanut butter fudge that’s sure to impress? This no-fuss recipe is your ticket to sweet, salty bliss in minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt together 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/2 cup unsalted butter, stirring constantly until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until completely combined and the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it evenly into the corners. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
6. Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the dish, then cut into 1-inch squares.

The magic of this fudge lies in its melt-in-your-mouth texture, achieved by the perfect balance of peanut butter and butter. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling to elevate the sweet and salty flavors.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Muffins

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Muffins are the perfect blend of nutty and sweet, making them an irresistible treat for any time of the day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 large egg, 3/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed. Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips creates a moist, flavorful muffin that’s packed with just the right amount of sweetness.

Tip: For an extra chocolatey version, try using mini chocolate chips or adding a few on top of each muffin before baking.

Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls

These Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls are the perfect pick-me-up for busy days, combining rich peanut butter flavor with a satisfying chewiness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup honey, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp salt until well combined.
2. Stir in 1 cup old-fashioned oats and 1/2 cup ground flaxseed until the mixture is uniform.
3. Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
4. Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Chill the energy balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.

The combination of flaxseed and oats gives these energy balls a delightful texture that’s both hearty and smooth, making them a guilt-free snack any time of day.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture before rolling.

Peanut Butter Granola

Start your morning with a crunch and a smile with this homemade Peanut Butter Granola, packed with wholesome ingredients and a rich, nutty flavor that’s irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats and 1/2 cup chopped peanuts.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oats and peanuts, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. If using, sprinkle 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips over the granola while it’s still warm.
7. Once cooled, break the granola into clusters and store in an airtight container.

The magic of this granola lies in its perfect balance of sweet and salty, with the peanut butter creating clusters that are wonderfully crunchy yet tender. It’s a breakfast game-changer.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the peanut butter mixture before baking.

Peanut Butter Pancakes

Start your morning with a twist on the classic pancake by adding creamy peanut butter into the mix for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with maple syrup.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. In another bowl, mix 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with maple syrup.

The peanut butter not only adds a deep, nutty flavor but also gives these pancakes a wonderfully moist texture that’s hard to resist.

Tip: For an extra peanut butter kick, drizzle some warmed peanut butter over the top before adding syrup.

Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip

Looking for a quick, creamy dip that’s both sweet and tangy? This Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip is your go-to for snacking or dessert!

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter. Stir until smooth.
2. Add 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Serve with apple slices, pretzels, or your favorite dippers. Enjoy the creamy, dreamy texture with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness.

Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top before serving to enhance the dip’s warm flavors.

Peanut Butter and Apple Slices

Looking for a quick, healthy snack that combines creamy and crunchy in every bite? These Peanut Butter and Apple Slices are your go-to treat!

Ingredients

• 2 medium apples, any variety
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the apples. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds, removing the core and seeds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Spread a thin layer of the peanut butter mixture onto each apple slice.
4. Serve immediately for a crisp snack, or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes if you prefer a firmer peanut butter layer.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the juicy, crisp apples and the smooth, spiced peanut butter—a combo that’s irresistibly simple yet sophisticated.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or granola over the peanut butter before serving.

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a twist on the classic, adding a creamy, nutty flavor that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large pot over low heat, melt together 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/4 cup unsalted butter, stirring until smooth.
2. Add 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows to the pot, stirring constantly until completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
4. Quickly fold in 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
5. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish using a spatula or your hands (lightly greased to prevent sticking).
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

The addition of peanut butter not only enriches the flavor but also gives these treats a slightly chewier texture, making them a standout at any gathering.

Tip: For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before the treats cool.

Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates

These Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, offering a quick and healthy snack that feels indulgent.

Ingredients

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Using a small knife, carefully make a slit in each date to remove the pit if not already pitted.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt until well combined.
4. Stuff each date with the peanut butter mixture, using a spoon or piping bag for ease.
5. Drizzle 1 tablespoon honey over the stuffed dates and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts for added crunch.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, just until the dates are warm and the peanut butter is slightly melted.

The contrast between the soft, sweet dates and the creamy, salty peanut butter creates a snack that’s irresistibly satisfying. Perfect for when you need a quick energy boost or a sweet treat without the guilt.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try drizzling melted dark chocolate over the dates before serving.

Peanut Butter and Honey Toast

Start your morning with a sweet and satisfying crunch that takes just minutes to make. This Peanut Butter and Honey Toast is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of whole grain bread
• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 banana, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden and crisp.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of creamy peanut butter evenly on each slice of toast.
3. Drizzle 1/2 tablespoon of honey over each slice.
4. Sprinkle 1/8 teaspoon of cinnamon on each slice, followed by arranging the banana slices on top.
5. Garnish with chia seeds if using, for an extra crunch and nutrient boost.

The magic of this toast lies in the contrast between the warm, crispy bread and the cool, creamy toppings, making every bite a delightful experience.

Tip: For a twist, try swapping the banana for apple slices or a sprinkle of granola for added texture.

Peanut Butter Popcorn

Who says movie night can’t be both indulgent and easy? This Peanut Butter Popcorn is a game-changer, combining the crunch of popcorn with the creamy richness of peanut butter for a snack that’s irresistibly good.

Ingredients

• 10 cups popped popcorn
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup honey, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp salt.
4. Place the 10 cups popped popcorn in a large bowl and pour the peanut butter mixture over the top. Gently toss until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Spread the coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake at 250°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even drying.
6. Let the popcorn cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into pieces. The cooling process helps the peanut butter coating set, giving the popcorn its signature crunch.

The magic of this recipe lies in the way the peanut butter coating transforms in the oven, creating a delightfully crisp texture that clings to every piece of popcorn. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and salty, with a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the popcorn right after it comes out of the oven.

Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Who says you need an ice cream maker to whip up a batch of creamy, dreamy peanut butter ice cream? This no-churn version is a game-changer for peanut butter lovers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups heavy cream, cold
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip 2 cups cold heavy cream to stiff peaks.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until no white streaks remain.
4. Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or airtight container. Sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped peanuts on top if using.
5. Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm.

The magic of this recipe lies in its velvety texture and the way the peanut butter flavor intensifies as it freezes. It’s like biting into a frozen peanut butter cup, but creamier and more indulgent.

Tip: For an extra peanut butter punch, swirl in some melted peanut butter before freezing.

Peanut Butter and Chocolate No-Bake Bars

These Peanut Butter and Chocolate No-Bake Bars are the perfect treat for when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup honey, and 1/2 cup coconut oil. Stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups old-fashioned oats, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
6. Spread the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
7. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish, then cut into squares.

The contrast between the crunchy oats and the smooth chocolate topping makes these bars irresistibly textural. They’re a no-fuss dessert that feels indulgent without any baking required.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of the chocolate before chilling.

Peanut Butter and Banana Quesadilla

Who knew peanut butter and banana could get any better? Wrap them up in a crispy tortilla, and you’ve got a snack that’s both comforting and quick to make.

Ingredients

• 2 large flour tortillas (8-inch)
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 medium banana, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Spread 2 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly over one side of each tortilla.
2. Arrange banana slices in a single layer over the peanut butter on one tortilla. Drizzle with 1/2 tablespoon honey and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Top with the second tortilla, peanut butter side down.
3. Melt 1/2 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the quesadilla and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with remaining butter and quesadilla.
4. Cut into wedges and serve warm. The contrast of the crispy tortilla with the creamy peanut butter and sweet banana makes this a standout snack.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle a few chocolate chips inside before cooking.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious and easy peanut butter recipes has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen! Perfect for beginners, these recipes are sure to delight. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next cooking adventure. Happy baking and cooking!