Easy No-Bake Cookies

Name: Easy No-Bake Cookies
Prep time: PT-482806H9M8S
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: PT-482806H4M8S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 3 cups quick oats; Pinch of salt

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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These Easy No-Bake Cookies are a quick and satisfying treat that require no oven and minimal effort. They combine chocolate, peanut butter, and oats into soft and chewy bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something sweet, this recipe is a go-to option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly quick and easy to make—no baking required!

Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth in under an hour.

Combines classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with a hearty texture from oats.

Great for making ahead or when you need a last-minute dessert.

Made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup peanut butter

3 cups quick oats

Pinch of salt

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This will be where the cookies set.

Make the Cookie Mixture:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Stir in the sugar, milk, cocoa powder, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Once it starts boiling, continue cooking for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Combine with Peanut Butter and Oats:

Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.

Add the oats and mix until fully combined and coated.

Form the Cookies:

Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You can leave them in their natural shape or smooth them into rounds.

Set and Serve:

Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once firm, they’re ready to enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 20-24 cookies, depending on the size.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Set Time: 30-60 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 40-70 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

Add-ins: Stir in mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Oat Variations: Use rolled oats instead of quick oats for a chewier texture.

Healthier Version: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey and use unsweetened cocoa powder.

Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for a unique flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: No need to reheat! These cookies are best enjoyed as-is straight from the container or after defrosting at room temperature.

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FAQs

How do I make sure the cookies set properly?

Cooking the sugar mixture for the correct amount of time (1-2 minutes after boiling) is key. If undercooked, the cookies may not set, and if overcooked, they could become too dry.

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, but the texture will be chewier, and the cookies might not hold together as well. Quick oats are best for this recipe.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.

Why are my cookies crumbly or dry?

This usually happens if the mixture is overcooked or there isn’t enough liquid. Be sure to follow the cooking times closely and measure ingredients accurately.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! This recipe is easy to scale up. Just make sure your saucepan is large enough to handle the larger batch.

Conclusion

These Easy No-Bake Cookies are a lifesaver when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With their rich chocolate flavor, creamy peanut butter, and chewy oats, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Perfect for quick snacks, potlucks, or holiday treats, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!.

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