No-Bake Cocoa Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Introduction
No-bake cookies are a quick and delicious treat that comes together in minutes without the need for an oven. These chocolate peanut butter delights are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 3 cups quick oats
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, combine the sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Slowly bring the mixture to a boil while whisking constantly. Once it reaches a boil, allow it to boil for one full minute without whisking, then remove from heat.
- Step 2: Stir in the quick oats, mixing well to combine. Add the creamy peanut butter and continue mixing until smooth. Lastly, mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Line a counter or baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon the cookie mixture onto the paper in small mounds to form cookie shapes. Let them set for 15 to 30 minutes until firm.
Tips & Variations
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of quick oats for a chewier texture.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if using unsalted peanut butter.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
Storage
Store no-bake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To soften refrigerated cookies, let them come to room temperature before serving or microwave briefly for a few seconds.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may change the texture slightly and cause the cookies to be a bit softer.
What can I do if my cookies are too soft?
If the cookies are too soft, try boiling the sugar mixture for an additional 30 seconds to a minute, which will help the cookies set firmer once cooled.
PrintNo-Bake Cocoa Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These classic No-Bake Cookies are a quick and easy treat combining rich cocoa, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats. Requiring no oven time, they come together in minutes and set into delicious, fudgy cookies perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 3 cups quick oats
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine and Boil: In a large pot, add sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Slowly bring to a boil while whisking continuously to ensure the mixture is smooth. Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, set a timer and allow it to boil for exactly one minute without whisking.
- Add Oats and Peanut Butter: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the quick oats until well combined. Then add the creamy peanut butter and mix thoroughly to ensure an even texture and flavor throughout.
- Finish with Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract last and stir well to incorporate fully, enhancing the cookie’s flavor complexity.
- Shape and Set: Lay out parchment paper on a countertop. Spoon dollops of the cookie mixture onto the parchment, shaping them into cookies. Allow the cookies to set and firm up at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use quick oats for best texture; old-fashioned oats may alter the consistency.
- Ensure the sugar mixture boils for the full minute for proper setting.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a nuttier variation, substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
- If a firmer cookie is desired, refrigerate the cookies after shaping for faster setting.
Keywords: no bake cookies, quick cookies, peanut butter cookies, cocoa cookies, easy dessert
