Craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven? This no-bake cookies recipe is your perfect solution. Ready in under 20 minutes, these cookies are chewy, chocolatey, and nutty—perfect for busy days, last-minute treats, or when you just want a simple homemade dessert.
Ideal for home cooks in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, this recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Ingredients (Makes About 24 Cookies)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup peanut butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups rolled oats
Optional: pinch of salt, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut
How to Make No-Bake Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Step 2: Cook the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
Melt butter.
Stir in sugar, milk, and cocoa powder.
Bring to a rolling boil and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove from heat, then stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Mix in Oats
Fold in rolled oats until fully coated with the chocolate mixture.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet
Flatten slightly if desired
Let cookies set at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, or refrigerate for faster results.
Tips for Perfect No-Bake Cookies
✔ Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture
✔ Don’t skip the 1–2 minute boil—this ensures the cookies set properly
✔ Add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra flavor
✔ Store in an airtight container to keep them soft
Variations
Coconut No-Bake Cookies: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Nut-Free Version: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter
Chocolate-Chip No-Bake Cookies: Stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in under 20 minutes
No oven needed
Kid-friendly and fun to make
Perfect for last-minute treats
This is truly a no-bake cookies recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with a glass of milk or hot cocoa
Pack for lunchboxes or picnics
Serve at parties or bake sales
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not boiling the mixture long enough (cookies won’t set)
❌ Using quick oats (results in mushy texture)
❌ Skipping parchment paper (cookies stick to surfaces)
Conclusion
This no-bake cookies recipe is simple, quick, and absolutely delicious. With chewy oats, chocolate, and peanut butter, it’s the ultimate homemade treat that doesn’t require baking. Perfect for busy days or last-minute desserts, these cookies are sure to become a household favorite. 🍪💛