Easy No Bake Cookies

These Easy No Bake Cookies are a classic, fuss-free treat made with simple pantry ingredients. With a rich, chocolatey flavor and a chewy texture, they come together in minutes—no oven required! Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings quickly, these cookies are ideal for busy days, last-minute desserts, or a fun baking activity with kids.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – No baking required, and ready in just minutes!
• Minimal Ingredients – Made with common pantry staples.
• Perfect Texture – Soft, chewy, and rich with chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
• Kid-Friendly – Fun to make with little helpers in the kitchen.
• Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for snacks, parties, or gifting.

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Butter
• Sugar
• Milk
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Peanut butter
• Vanilla extract
• Quick oats

Directions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil and let cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the quick oats and mix until fully combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet.
6. Let the cookies set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until firm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option – Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or cookie butter.
• Chocolate Lovers – Add chocolate chips for extra richness.
• Extra Texture – Mix in shredded coconut or chopped nuts.
• Healthier Version – Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar and add flaxseeds for extra fiber.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to two weeks in a sealed container.
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent my no bake cookies from being too dry?

Boil the sugar mixture for exactly one minute. Overcooking can make the cookies crumbly and dry.

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

Yes, but they will have a chewier texture. Quick oats absorb the mixture better and create a softer cookie.

Do I need to refrigerate no bake cookies?

No, but refrigerating them can help them set faster and keep them fresh longer.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even Nutella can be used for a twist in flavor.

Why aren’t my cookies setting properly?

They may need more time to cool. If they remain too soft, try refrigerating them for faster setting.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

Can I cut down on the sugar?

Yes, but reducing the sugar may change the texture. Try using a natural sweetener like honey or coconut sugar.

Can I add mix-ins?

Absolutely! Try adding mini marshmallows, dried fruit, or crushed pretzels for extra texture.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to keep the recipe safe for those with gluten allergies.

Do these cookies stay soft?

Yes, they remain soft and chewy as long as they’re stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

These Easy No Bake Cookies are a foolproof, delicious treat that requires minimal effort and ingredients. Whether you’re making them for a quick snack, a party, or a homemade gift, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them out and enjoy the perfect balance of chocolatey goodness and nutty flavor—without ever turning on the oven!

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