The holidays may be the season of giving, but they’re also the perfect time for indulging in sweet treats. Recently, while reminiscing about festive gatherings, I was drawn to the simplicity and charm of No Bake Avalanche Cookies. Imagine creamy peanut butter mingling with a blanket of sweet white almond bark, crunchy cereal, and fluffy marshmallows—all without the fuss of an oven! These delightful bites come together in just 10 minutes, effortlessly transforming into a gooey, chewy treat that melts in your mouth.
Whether you’re looking for a last-minute dessert for a holiday party or a delicious snack to savor with loved ones, these cookies check all the boxes. Their playful textures and rich flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds, making them a sure hit. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s whip up these irresistible No Bake Avalanche Cookies that promise to sweeten your celebrations!
Why Are No Bake Avalanche Cookies a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 10 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute dessert for unexpected guests or holiday gatherings.
Deliciously Decadent: The mix of creamy peanut butter and sweet almond bark creates a rich flavor that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Family-Friendly Fun: With no baking involved, it’s a fun cooking project for kids and adults alike—perfect for creating memorable moments in the kitchen.
Texture Wonderland: Enjoy the delightful contrast of gooey marshmallows, crunchy cereal, and creamy chocolate that makes each bite an explosion of flavor.
Versatile Treat: These cookies can easily adapt to different toppings or mix-ins, so you can get creative based on what you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleaser: With their friendly flavors and playful textures, they’re bound to be a favorite that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!
No Bake Avalanche Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Almond Bark (or White Candy Melts) – This creamy coating adds sweetness and a smooth texture; can substitute with candy melts if desired.
- Peanut Butter – Rich and nutty, it gives the cookies their delightful flavor; you can use sunflower seed butter as a nut-free substitution.
- Puffed Rice Cereal – Essential for a crunchy texture; it provides the structure that defines these No Bake Avalanche Cookies.
- Mini Marshmallows – These sweet morsels contribute gooeyness and delightful flavor; always opt for fresh marshmallows for the best texture.
- Holiday Mini Chips (or Mini Chocolate Chips) – These are sprinkled on top for an extra touch of sweetness and festive flair.
How to Make No Bake Avalanche Cookies
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a lipped baking sheet with parchment or wax paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Melt Ingredients: In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine broken almond bark and peanut butter. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes until nice and smooth.
- Mix in Cereal and Marshmallows: Remove from heat and allow it to cool for 15 minutes. Fold in the puffed rice cereal and mini marshmallows gently until everything is well coated.
- Scoop and Set: Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to dollop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Top each scoop with a few mini chips. Let them set until hardened or pop them in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for No Bake Avalanche Cookies
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh almond bark and marshmallows to prevent a grainy texture in your No Bake Avalanche Cookies.
- Cool Properly: Allow the melted mixture to cool for 15 minutes before stirring in the cereal and marshmallows. This helps maintain their shape.
- Avoid Overheating: If melting on the stovetop or in the microwave, monitor closely to prevent burning. Stir frequently for even melting.
- Storage Solutions: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 2 months, layered with wax paper to avoid sticking.
- Easy Toppings: Customize your cookies with various toppings like crushed candies or chopped nuts for a unique twist that enhances flavor and texture.
Storage Tips for No Bake Avalanche Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent stickiness.
Fridge: These cookies can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks; chilling them enhances their chewiness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, separated by wax paper, for up to 2 months. This preserves the texture of your No Bake Avalanche Cookies.
Reheating: If you’d like your cookies to be a bit softer, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!
What to Serve with No Bake Avalanche Cookies?
Indulging in these delightful treats creates the perfect occasion for a cozy gathering or festive celebration.
- Chilled Glass of Milk: A classic pairing, cold milk complements the sweetness and richness, enhancing each gooey bite.
- Fresh Fruit Platter: Brighten your dessert table with vibrant berries and citrus, offering a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ indulgence.
- Hot Cocoa: The warm, comforting flavors of cocoa combined with marshmallows make for a delightful and cozy experience.
- Holiday Spice Tea: A fragrant blend of spices warms the palate and pairs beautifully with the sweet complexity of the cookies.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Add a creamy dip to enjoy alongside your Avalanche Cookies; it amplifies textures and tastes in every bite!
- Crunchy Nuts: Sliced almonds or pecans add a satisfying crunch that balances the chewy marshmallows—perfect for a delightful textural contrast.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A sweet, buttery caramel drizzle creates an enticing layer of flavor, making those cookies even more decadent.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Serve these cookies with bite-sized cheesecakes for an impressive, delectable dessert platter that will wow your guests!
- Christmas Cookie Platter: Combine these cookies with other holiday favorites for a festive dessert spread that will bring joy to everyone around the table.
Make Ahead Options
These No Bake Avalanche Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cookie mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the melted peanut butter and almond bark with the puffed rice cereal and mini marshmallows, and then refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy these indulgent treats, simply scoop the mixture onto your lined baking sheet, add the holiday mini chips, and let them set. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves you time but ensures your cookies are just as delicious and ready to be devoured whenever the craving hits!
No Bake Avalanche Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to add your personal touch to these scrumptious cookies—each variation brings its own charm!
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: Substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy for added texture and delightful bites of nuts.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate almond bark instead of white almond bark for a rich, chocolaty twist that will satisfy any chocophile’s cravings.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to ensure those with nut allergies can join in the fun without missing out.
- Add-Ins Galore: Toss in mini M&Ms, dried fruit, or chopped nuts to elevate flavors and create your unique cookie concoction.
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Mix in festive sprinkles for a pop of color, making these cookies perfect for any holiday gathering or celebration.
- S’mores Inspired: Incorporate graham cracker crumbs for a s’mores flair, giving that nostalgic campfire treat vibe in cookie form.
- Coconut Bliss: Add shredded coconut for a tropical touch that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for an unexpected hint of heat that layers complexity into every bite.
No Bake Avalanche Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select almond bark or white candy melts?
Absolutely! When choosing almond bark or white candy melts, look for a creamy texture and avoid any packaging that indicates a grainy finish. For the best results, I recommend using products from well-known brands. If the almond bark has been sitting on the shelf for a long time, it may not melt smoothly.
How do I store No Bake Avalanche Cookies?
Very simple! Store your No Bake Avalanche Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra fresh and prevent them from becoming sticky, I often refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature again before enjoying!
Can I freeze No Bake Avalanche Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for about 1 hour until solid. Once frozen, layer them with wax paper in an airtight container and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, let them sit out for a few minutes to soften.
What should I do if my mixture is too runny?
If you find your mixture is runny, create a thicker consistency by adding a bit more puffed rice cereal. Start with 1/4 cup at a time and mix gently until it thickens to your liking. Ensure that the almond bark and peanut butter are not overheated, as that can also cause a runny texture.
Are No Bake Avalanche Cookies safe for kids with peanut allergies?
For sure! You can easily adapt this recipe to be nut-free by substituting peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or any other nut-free alternative. Just double-check the packaging for allergy information and ensure there are no cross-contamination warnings.
What toppings could I use instead of mini chocolate chips?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with toppings; try crushed candy canes for a minty twist, seasonal sprinkles, or even drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for added richness. Mix and match based on your festive preferences!
Irresistible No Bake Avalanche Cookies for Easy Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a lipped baking sheet with parchment or wax paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine broken almond bark and peanut butter. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes until nice and smooth.
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool for 15 minutes. Fold in the puffed rice cereal and mini marshmallows gently until everything is well coated.
- Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to dollop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Top each scoop with a few mini chips. Let them set until hardened or pop them in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
- Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent touch.
