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This no-bake Avalanche Cookies recipe is perfect when you want a quick and fuss-free sweet treat that still feels special. The combination of white chocolate, peanut butter, Rice Krispies, and marshmallows creates a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and chewy textures that satisfy any craving. I often make these when unexpected guests drop by or when I need a last-minute dessert to share.
I whipped these up after a surprise invitation to a friend’s house and they disappeared faster than I expected. They’ve since become my go-to cookie for easy entertaining.
Ingredients
- White melting chocolate: melts smoothly and holds the cookie together choose a high quality brand for the best flavor and texture
- Creamy peanut butter: adds richness and a nutty undertone make sure it is well stirred for even mixing
- Rice Krispies cereal: provides the signature crisp crunch pick the freshest box to keep them from going soft too quickly
- Miniature marshmallows: bring chewiness and a little sweetness their size is perfect for even distribution in each bite
- Mini chocolate chips: used both inside and on top for pockets of melty chocolate opt for a brand with a rich cocoa flavor
Instructions
- Prepare The Sheet:
- Cover a large cookie sheet with parchment paper this will make cleanup easy and keep your cookies from sticking
- Melt The Chocolate:
- Melt white chocolate according to package directions I usually do this gently in a double boiler to avoid scorching if using a microwave stir every thirty seconds
- Mix Peanut Butter And Chocolate:
- In a large bowl stir together the melted white chocolate and creamy peanut butter until completely smooth this creates the creamy base that holds everything
- Fold In The Mix-Ins:
- Add Rice Krispies, miniature marshmallows, and three quarters of the chocolate chips gently fold until everything is evenly coated without crushing the cereal or marshmallows
- Scoop Onto Sheet:
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared sheet I use a tablespoon for even sized cookies then sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top to finish
- Chill To Set:
- Place the cookie sheet in the refrigerator for about twenty minutes until the cookies firm up this step is key to getting the perfect texture
My favorite ingredient here is the peanut butter it lifts the cookies from just sweet bites to something that feels more indulgent and nutty. I have this memory of making these with my kids on a weekend the marshmallows got everywhere but seeing their faces light up when the cookies came out made the mess totally worth it.
Storage Tips
Store these cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh for up to a week. They lose their crunch quickly if left out so chilling is key. For best results bring them to room temperature for a few minutes before serving so the white chocolate softens slightly.
Ingredient Swaps
If you do not have white melting chocolate you can try using milk chocolate but it changes the flavor profile noticeably. Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different nutty twist. You can replace Rice Krispies with puffed quinoa or another puffed cereal if you want a grain-free option.
Serving Ideas
Serve these alongside a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee for an easy afternoon pick-me-up. They also work well crushed as a topping for vanilla ice cream or stirred into plain yogurt for a crunchy treat.
For summer parties add toasted coconut flakes and swap marshmallows for mini gummy bears to keep it playful.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What gives Avalanche Cookies their crunch?
The crunch mainly comes from the Rice Krispies cereal mixed throughout, balancing the softer marshmallows and chocolate.
- → Can I use other types of chocolate in these cookies?
While white melting chocolate is recommended for its smooth texture and sweetness, you can try alternatives like milk or semi-sweet chocolate, but it may change flavor and consistency.
- → How do the marshmallows affect the texture?
Miniature marshmallows add a light, chewy softness that contrasts nicely with the crispy cereal and firm chocolate coating.
- → Is refrigeration necessary for these no-bake treats?
Chilling helps the white chocolate and peanut butter mixture set firmly, giving the cookies shape and a satisfying bite.
- → Can additional mix-ins be added to the cookies?
Yes, chopped nuts or dried fruit can be folded in for extra texture and flavor variety.