Avalanche Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a no-bake cookie that feels like a fun, nostalgic treat wrapped up in a bite-sized morsel, you absolutely have to try this Avalanche Cookies Recipe. I love it because it combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet punch of white chocolate and the perfect crunch from rice krispies and mini marshmallows. It’s one of those recipes that’s quick to whip up but still delivers serious crowd-pleasing vibes.

When I first made these, I was honestly amazed at how easily the flavors meld together and how each bite has that unexpected avalanche of textures—you get chewy, crunchy, gooey, and chocolaty all at once. Whether you’re packing lunchboxes, throwing together a last-minute party snack, or craving something sweet without turning on the oven, this Avalanche Cookies Recipe fits the bill beautifully.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here come together in the most harmonious way—creamy peanut butter and melted white chocolate bind everything, while marshmallows and rice krispies give that playful chew and crunch. I like to keep extra mini chocolate chips on hand because topping each cookie with them adds a little extra flair and texture.

• Mini chocolate chips: I freeze mine ahead of time so they hold their shape when folded into the warm mixture and on top.
• White chocolate chips: Use good quality ones for a smoother, richer taste that really shines through.
• Creamy peanut butter: Skippy is my go-to because it blends well without being too oily or dry.
• Rice krispies cereal: The classic brand works best for light crunchiness and easy mixing.
• Miniature marshmallows: These melt just enough to add chew without making the cookies sticky.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Avalanche Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to tweak it to your own tastes. I encourage you to get creative—swap in different chips, add nuts, or even sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for contrast. It keeps things exciting and can cater to any dietary need or flavor craving.

• Chocolate Chip Swap: I once made these with semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer, less sweet twist, and my family was hooked.
• Nut-Free Version: Just replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to keep allergy-friendly but just as delicious.
• Seasonal Flavors: Around the holidays, I love adding festive sprinkles or a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy touch.
• Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped roasted peanuts or almonds for an additional nutty texture boost.

How to Make Avalanche Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Freeze the Chips

Start off by lining two large sheet pans with parchment paper or your preferred non-stick surface—this will make cleanup a breeze. Pop your mini chocolate chips into the freezer while you work on melting the white chocolate; freezing them ensures they don’t melt into the mix too soon and keeps their texture delightful, which is something I discovered after a few tries.

Step 2: Melt White Chocolate & Mix with Peanut Butter

Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat them in 25-second bursts. Stir well after each burst to avoid burning—white chocolate can be a bit finicky! Once silky smooth, blend in the creamy peanut butter until the mixture is fully combined and glossy. You’ll notice the peanut butter makes it wonderfully thick, perfect for holding everything together.

Step 3: Toss in Rice Krispies and Marshmallows

In a large bowl, pour your rice krispies cereal and add the warm chocolate-peanut butter mixture. Stir gently so all the crunchy cereal gets coated without turning soggy. Immediately fold in the mini marshmallows—they’ll soften just enough to add that chewy magic but won’t melt away completely, which is key for this recipe.

Step 4: Add Frozen Mini Chocolate Chips and Scoop

Let the mixture cool slightly, just until it’s only barely warm—that way, your frozen mini chocolate chips won’t melt right away when you fold them in. Using a 2-tablespoon scoop or measuring spoon, portion the dough onto the prepared pans. Don’t forget to sprinkle a few extra frozen mini chips on top of each cookie for that extra pop of chocolate—your friends will think you went the extra mile!

Step 5: Chill Until Set

Place the cookies in the fridge to chill for about an hour, or until firm. They’re best served cold straight from the fridge, so you get that perfect chewy, crunchy, cool texture. I always recommend keeping them chilled because the marshmallows and chocolate stay firm that way, creating an irresistible cookie experience.

How to Serve Avalanche Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishes, I stick with a handful of extra mini chocolate chips on top because they give a perfect pop and look super inviting. On special occasions, I’ve also sprinkled a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt or even a dash of edible glitter for a festive touch—a total crowd-pleaser that makes these cookies feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These Avalanche Cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of espresso if you want a little coffee kick. I also love serving them alongside fresh fruit or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a bit of temperature and flavor contrast—trust me, it’s a sweet and satisfying combo.

Creative Ways to Present

When I’ve brought Avalanche Cookies Recipe to parties, I like to display them stacked on pretty plates or arranged in small muffin liners for easy grab-and-go. They also look adorable tied up in cellophane bags with a ribbon as edible gifts. Another fun idea: serve them on a dessert board with other small sweets and nuts for a snack platter that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep any leftover Avalanche Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their chewy, cool texture. They stay fresh for up to a week, though honestly, mine rarely last that long—I always find myself sneaking one (or two) after dinner!

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully if you want to prep ahead. I freeze scooped cookie portions on a tray first, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature for a cushioned, chewy treat anytime.

Reheating

I actually don’t recommend reheating Avalanche Cookies since their charm lies in their chilled texture, but if you prefer them softer, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave does the trick—just watch closely so they don’t get too melty and lose that fun avalanche of textures.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Avalanche Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my baking repertoire because it’s such an easy way to whip up a deliciously nostalgic treat that everyone loves. It’s simple enough for a last-minute snack, yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your own favorite twists. Trust me—once you make these, you’ll find yourself coming back to the recipe again and again, just like my family does.

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