13 Surprising Ways to Cook with Peanut Butter

That jar of peanut butter in your pantry is probably doing the culinary equivalent of sitting on the bench, waiting for its big moment. Sure, it’s great on toast or in cookies, but it’s capable of playing lead in a lot more dishes than most people realize. It brings creaminess to sauces, balance to spicy dishes, and a satisfying heft to breakfasts and snacks. The magic lies in using it for depth, not just sweetness. Think globally inspired noodle bowls, savory marinades, and even tangy dressings. The best part? You don’t need complicated recipes or rare ingredients. Here are thirteen clever ways to put peanut butter in the spotlight.

1. Thai Peanut Noodles

Peanut butter makes an excellent base for a quick, Thai-style noodle sauce. Blend it with soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili paste for heat. Toss with rice noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and your choice of protein – chicken, tofu, or shrimp all work beautifully. The sauce clings to the noodles, delivering savory, tangy, and spicy notes in every bite. Fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil add brightness, while crushed peanuts give crunch. You can prep everything while the noodles cook, making this a 20-minute dinner that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

2. Peanut Butter Banana Pancakes

Bananas and peanut butter are a flavor match that feels indulgent but still wholesome. Mash ripe bananas into your pancake batter, then whisk in a few spoonfuls of peanut butter. The peanut butter adds protein and a creamy richness, while the banana keeps the pancakes tender and naturally sweet. Stack them high, top with fresh banana slices, and drizzle with maple syrup for a breakfast that sticks with you. For a twist, sprinkle cinnamon or dark chocolate chips into the batter before cooking. They reheat well, so you can make extra for busy mornings.

3. Peanut Butter Chicken Skewers

For tender, flavorful grilled chicken, marinate bite-size pieces in peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. The peanut butter not only flavors the meat but also helps keep it juicy on the grill. Thread onto skewers and cook until lightly charred. Serve with a cool cucumber salad or a tangy dipping sauce to balance the richness. These skewers work for dinner or as a party appetizer, and the marinade can double as a sauce if thinned with a little lime juice or coconut milk.

4. Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate

Adding peanut butter to hot chocolate turns it into a decadent treat with a velvety texture. Stir a spoonful into the hot cocoa until fully melted, then top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder or crushed peanuts. The nutty flavor deepens the chocolate without making it overly sweet. You can spike it with a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for warmth. In summer, chill it and serve over ice for a cold version that still feels indulgent.

5. Peanut Butter Hummus

When you’re out of tahini, peanut butter steps in effortlessly. Blend it with chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for a hummus that’s creamy, slightly sweet, and subtly nutty. The peanut butter gives the dip a richer body, making it perfect with pita bread, crackers, or sliced veggies. Add paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for extra punch. It also makes a great sandwich spread, especially with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.

6. Peanut Butter Salad Dressing

This dressing works on far more than lettuce. Whisk peanut butter with rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey for a creamy, tangy blend. Thin it with water or coconut milk depending on whether you want it thick for dipping or light for drizzling. It’s excellent on grain bowls, shredded cabbage slaws, or as a sauce for cold noodles. Make a jar at the start of the week and you’ll find yourself using it on everything from roasted vegetables to wraps.

7. Peanut Butter Energy Bites

No-bake energy bites are a quick fix for portable snacks, and peanut butter is the perfect binder. Mix it with oats, honey, and add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chia seeds. Roll into bite-size balls and store in the fridge. They’re balanced with carbs, healthy fats, and protein, making them ideal pre-workout or mid-afternoon fuel. You can swap honey for maple syrup or change the mix-ins to keep things interesting. They freeze well too, so you can make a big batch.

8. Peanut Butter Stir-Fried Veggies

A peanut-based sauce can completely change your stir-fry game. Combine peanut butter with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a splash of water, then toss with broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, or green beans. The sauce coats the vegetables beautifully, adding a savory-sweet depth that’s different from standard stir-fry sauces. Serve over rice or noodles, and finish with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for texture. For spice lovers, a drizzle of sriracha makes it pop.

9. Peanut Butter Cheesecake

A swirl of peanut butter in cheesecake batter brings a nutty richness without overwhelming the creamy base. You can go all in with a full peanut butter filling or create marbled ribbons for a visual twist. A chocolate cookie crust pairs perfectly, and a topping of chocolate ganache or crushed peanuts adds texture. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent but still balanced enough for a second slice.

10. Peanut Butter BBQ Sauce

Peanut butter in barbecue sauce might sound unusual, but it works. It softens tangy vinegar notes, adds a creamy body, and helps the sauce stick to whatever you’re grilling. Stir it into store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce and brush it over ribs, pulled pork, or grilled vegetables. It’s a subtle twist that guests will notice but probably won’t be able to pinpoint ; the best kind of secret ingredient.

11. Peanut Butter Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are an easy breakfast, but peanut butter makes them feel more like a treat. Mix oats, milk, peanut butter, and a touch of honey, then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top with bananas, berries, or a sprinkle of granola. The peanut butter thickens the oats and adds staying power so you’re not hungry an hour later. For variety, stir in cocoa powder or cinnamon before chilling.

12. Peanut Butter Granola

Homemade granola gets an upgrade with peanut butter. Mix oats, nuts, and seeds with melted peanut butter, honey, and a pinch of salt, then bake until golden. The peanut butter helps bind the clusters and gives them a savory edge that balances the sweetness. It’s great over yogurt, with milk, or straight from the jar. Making it at home also lets you control the sugar level and mix in your favorite extras like dried cherries or coconut flakes.

13. Peanut Butter Frosting

Whipped peanut butter frosting is a game changer for cakes and cookies. Beat peanut butter with butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and fluffy. It’s rich but not cloying, pairing especially well with chocolate or banana cake. You can add cinnamon, espresso powder, or even a splash of bourbon for depth. Spread generously and watch it disappear.