Avalanche Cookies Recipe

If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just want a cookie that brings a little bit of everything — chocolate, peanut butter, marshmallows, and that fun crispy crunch. That’s exactly why the Avalanche Cookies Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to bake and share. It’s like a little edible celebration in every bite, perfect for casual afternoons, parties, or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up that feels homemade but comes together super easily.

What I love most about this Avalanche Cookies Recipe is how it manages to be both indulgent and straightforward. The combination of creamy peanut butter with melted white chocolate chips creates a rich flavor base, while the rice krispies add a satisfying texture. Also, those little mini chocolate chips frozen into the mix? They’re the cherry on top — literally a sweet surprise with every mouthful.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic happens with a handful of simple ingredients that complement each other perfectly — no complicated pantry raids necessary. When I shop, I look for good-quality peanut butter (creamy Skippy works great) and fresh white chocolate chips to ensure the best melting texture.

• Mini chocolate chips: Freezing these before adding really keeps them from melting completely and adds little bursts of chocolate in every bite.
• White chocolate chips: They melt down to a creamy base that pairs perfectly with peanut butter’s richness.
• Creamy peanut butter: I prefer Skippy because it’s smooth and blends effortlessly, but natural peanut butter can work if you’re mindful about texture.
• Rice Krispies cereal: The classic crisp crunch that gives these cookies their signature “avalanche” texture.
• Miniature marshmallows: These add a touch of sweetness and chewy softness, balancing the crunch beautifully.

Variations

I love personalizing the Avalanche Cookies Recipe depending on the season or who I’m baking for. You can switch things up depending on your mood — this recipe is a great foundation for creativity.

• Add nuts or dried fruit: Sometimes I toss in chopped pecans or dried cranberries for extra texture and a different flavor twist.
• Use dark chocolate chips: If you like your cookies less sweet, swapping mini or white chocolate chips for dark chocolate gives a more sophisticated edge.
• Try crunchy peanut butter: For an added crunch inside the cookie, chunky peanut butter works just as well.
• Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you pick gluten-free rice cereal, so it’s great for guests with dietary needs.

How to Make Avalanche Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Freezer Chocolate Chips

Start by lining two large sheet pans with parchment, foil, wax paper, or a silicone baking mat — it makes cleanup a breeze and helps the cookies release easily. While you get everything ready, pop the mini chocolate chips into the freezer; this little trick keeps them firm when you mix them later.

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate Chips

Grab a microwave-safe bowl and add your white chocolate chips. Microwave in short bursts of about 25 seconds, stirring in between for 20 seconds, until smooth and silky. Patience here is key—if you microwave too long at once, the chocolate can seize, and nobody wants that.

Step 3: Stir in the Peanut Butter

Once the white chocolate is melted, mix in the creamy peanut butter until it’s a perfectly smooth, combined mixture. I like this step because it’s like creating a luscious base that’s the heart of the Avalanche Cookies Recipe.

Step 4: Coat the Cereal and Add Marshmallows

Put the rice krispies cereal in a large bowl, then pour the warm chocolate-peanut butter blend over them. Gently fold the mixture until every bit of cereal is coated — be careful not to crush the cereal while stirring! Next, fold in your miniature marshmallows for a soft, chewy contrast that brightens each bite.

Step 5: Mix in Frozen Mini Chocolate Chips

Let the mixture cool a little so it’s just barely warm, then gently fold in the frozen mini chocolate chips. This step prevents the mini chips from melting completely, keeping that satisfying little chocolate burst intact.

Step 6: Scoop and Chill

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture onto your lined baking pans. Don’t forget to sprinkle a few extra mini chocolate chips on top for an added pop of chocolate — about half a teaspoon per cookie works perfectly. Place the pans in the fridge for about an hour or until firm, then enjoy! These cookies are best served straight from the refrigerator for that perfect chewy-crisp texture.

How to Serve Avalanche Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

When I serve these cookies, I love topping them with just a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It brings out all the sweetness in such a surprising way! Sometimes I’ll add a dusting of powdered sugar for a bit of winter magic, especially if I’m gifting them.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or even a sturdy cup of coffee if you want a grown-up twist. I’ve also brought them along with hot cocoa at cozy gatherings — they’re a hit every time.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re making these for a party, I’ve found they look adorable stacked in clear jars tied with colorful ribbons or nestled in small treat bags with a personalized tag. You can even press festive sprinkles on top for holidays, which makes them look extra special and ready to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Avalanche Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh. They usually last about a week, but honestly, they tend to disappear much faster in my house!

Freezing

If I ever want to save some for later, I pop the baked cookies into a freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper. They freeze wonderfully and can last for a couple of months without losing their texture or flavor.

Reheating

These Avalanche Cookies taste best cold, but if you want to soften them a bit, I gently warm them for about 10-15 seconds in the microwave. Just be careful not to heat too long or the chocolate will get messy!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The Avalanche Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s one of those all-in-one snacks that never fails to bring a smile. It’s simple enough for a last-minute treat but packed with layers of flavor and texture that make it feel like a true homemade indulgence. I can’t recommend trying it enough — once you do, these cookies will definitely become your go-to when you want something sweet, fun, and utterly delicious.

Print