No-Bake Cookies

These classic no-bake cookies come together in just 12 minutes on the stovetop. Made with oats, cocoa, and peanut butter, they're a quick and easy treat that doesn't require an oven.

Featured in Sweet Treats and Baked Goods.

Fatiha
Updated on Sun, 05 Jan 2025 01:31:20 GMT
Two chocolate oat cookies stacked on parchment paper, with more cookies in the background. Pin it
Two chocolate oat cookies stacked on parchment paper, with more cookies in the background. | zestplate.com

These No-Bake Cookies combine chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and old-fashioned oats into a quick and irresistible treat. Perfect for when you're short on time, these cookies are ready in just 10 minutes and require no oven! A family favorite for decades, they're a sweet, easy dessert that never disappoints.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

No-bake cookies are a lifesaver when you need a quick dessert or snack. With basic pantry ingredients and no special equipment required, they're easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress. Their chewy, chocolatey, peanut butter goodness makes them perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients for No-Bake Cookies

  • Butter: 1/2 cup, unsalted.
  • Granulated Sugar: 2 cups.
  • Milk: 1/2 cup whole milk.
  • Cocoa Powder: 1/4 cup unsweetened.
  • Peanut Butter: 1/2 cup creamy.
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
  • Old-Fashioned Oats: 3 cups.
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon.

How to Make No-Bake Cookies

Prepare Your Space
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Measure all ingredients before starting as timing is crucial.
Make the Chocolate Base
In a large saucepan, combine butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for exactly 1 minute.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth. Mix in oats and salt until well combined.
Form Cookies
Drop spoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets. Let cool at room temperature until set, about 20-30 minutes.
A stack of three chocolate-covered oatmeal cookies placed on a white parchment paper on a wooden plate. Pin it
A stack of three chocolate-covered oatmeal cookies placed on a white parchment paper on a wooden plate. | zestplate.com

Storage and Freezing Tips

Store no-bake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why do I need to pre-measure ingredients?

Pre-measuring ingredients is crucial because once the butter mixture boils, you need to work quickly to combine everything before it starts to set. Having ingredients ready ensures proper cookie texture.

→ Why does the type of oats matter?

Old-fashioned oats give the cookies their classic texture. Quick oats absorb liquid differently, which is why you need less if using them. This prevents the cookies from becoming too dry.

→ How do I know if the cookies will set properly?

The key is boiling the butter mixture for exactly one minute. Too little time and they won't set, too long and they'll be crumbly. Time it carefully for perfect results.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Layer them with wax paper to prevent sticking. They can also be refrigerated for longer storage.

→ Why did my cookies turn out grainy?

Grainy cookies usually mean the sugar didn't dissolve properly. Make sure to stir constantly while the mixture is boiling and time the boiling period accurately.

Conclusion

These classic no-bake cookies combine simple ingredients for a quick and delicious treat.

Perfect for those wanting a fast dessert without turning on the oven, these cookies feature rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter mixed with hearty oats.

No-Bake Cookies

Quick stovetop cookies combining oats, cocoa, and peanut butter, ready in just 12 minutes. No baking required!

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
2 Minutes
Total Time
12 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 24 Servings (24 cookies)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 1/2 cup butter.
02 1/2 cup milk.
03 2 cups sugar.
04 3 cups oats (old-fashioned, or reduce by 1/4 cup if using quick oats).
05 1/2 cup cocoa powder.
06 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter.
07 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Instructions

Step 01

In a large pot, bring butter, milk, and sugar to a boil. Stir while boiling for 1 minute. Remove from heat.

Step 02

Quickly stir in the remaining ingredients until combined.

Step 03

Immediately use a cookie scoop to place scoops of dough on prepared baking sheets of waxed paper or aluminum foil. Allow 5-10 minutes to set and cool.

Notes

  1. Pre-measure all ingredients before starting for best results.
  2. If using quick oats, reduce amount by 1/4 cup.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot.
  • Cookie scoop.
  • Baking sheets.
  • Waxed paper or aluminum foil.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Peanuts.
  • Dairy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 176
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 25 g
  • Protein: 3 g