These No-Bake Cookies are a quick and easy treat made with creamy peanut butter, cocoa, and hearty oats. Perfect for when you’re short on time or don’t want to use the oven, they’re ready in just 40 minutes and always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Baking Required: A simple stovetop recipe for hassle-free preparation.
- Quick and Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep, and the cookies are ready to set.
- Deliciously Nutty: Peanut butter and cocoa combine for a perfect flavor balance.
- Versatile: Great as a snack, dessert, or lunchbox treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- cocoa powder
- creamy peanut butter
- oats
- milk
- sugar
- butter
- vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Measure out all the ingredients before starting to ensure smooth preparation.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, butter, and cocoa powder.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Let it boil for exactly 1 minute, then remove from heat to prevent overcooking.
Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter and Oats
- Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Add the oats and a pinch of salt, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a sheet of wax paper or a baking sheet.
- Shape them as desired and let them cool and set for about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Enjoy
- Once set, serve the cookies as a delicious dessert or snack.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy snacking later.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Setting Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter.
- Add-Ins: Mix in mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure oats are certified gluten-free for a gluten-free treat.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar slightly and add a touch more oats to balance the texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly chewier.
2. What if my cookies don’t set?
Ensure the mixture boils for exactly 1 minute; undercooking or overcooking can affect setting.
3. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
4. Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4 cup, but it may affect the firmness of the cookies.
5. How do I prevent the mixture from burning?
Stir constantly over medium heat and remove from the stovetop as soon as it boils.
6. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but work quickly as the mixture will cool and set faster in larger batches.
7. Are these cookies freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
8. What can I substitute for cocoa powder?
Unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled, can be used as a substitute.
9. Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?
Yes, simply adjust the size of the spoonfuls and the setting time accordingly.
10. Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re a kid-friendly treat, especially with their sweet and nutty flavors.
Conclusion
No-Bake Cookies are the perfect quick and easy dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their creamy peanut butter, rich cocoa, and hearty oats, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that requires minimal effort. Whip up a batch today for an instant favorite!
Print- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
Whip up these delicious No-Bake Cookies with peanut butter, cocoa, and oats for a quick and easy treat. Perfect for when you’re craving something sweet without turning on the oven!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups oats
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Measure out all the ingredients and have them ready to go.
Step 2: Cook the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, butter, and cocoa powder.
- Place the pan over medium heat, stirring constantly, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, let it cook for 1 minute while stirring. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Oats
- Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully melted and combined.
- Add the oats and a pinch of salt. Mix until the oats are evenly coated.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or a baking sheet.
- Let the cookies cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the cookies are firm, they are ready to eat.
- Serve these no-bake delights as a quick dessert or snack!
Notes
- Use quick oats for a softer texture, or rolled oats for more chew.
- Add mix-ins like shredded coconut or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
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