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Home » Recipes » Desserts

Chocolate Oatmeal No Bake Cookies

Published: Mar 4, 2025 by Janet · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy – No baking required, and the cookies set in about 30 minutes.
  • Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for lunchbox treats, parties, or a simple weeknight dessert.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use certified gluten-free oats to make them gluten-free.
  • No Special Equipment Needed – Just a stovetop and a spoon.

Ingredients

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

  • Butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Milk
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Creamy peanut butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Quick oats or old-fashioned oats
  • Salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Workspace – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
  2. Boil the Mixture – In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil and let it cook for about 1 minute.
  3. Add Peanut Butter and Oats – Remove from heat and quickly stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and oats. Mix until fully combined.
  4. Scoop the Cookies – Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Let Them Set – Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm.
  6. Enjoy – Once set, they are ready to eat.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Setting Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

  • Nut-Free Version – Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
  • Extra Chocolatey – Stir in mini chocolate chips before scooping the cookies.
  • Crunchy Addition – Add chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture.
  • Less Sugar – Reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
  • Dairy-Free – Use a dairy-free butter alternative and plant-based milk.

Storage/Reheating

  • Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Refrigerator – Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for a firmer texture.
  • Freezer – Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container. Let thaw at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

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

Boil the sugar mixture for exactly 1 minute. Overboiling can lead to dry, crumbly cookies.

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

Yes, but they will be chewier. Quick oats give a softer texture.

Why are my cookies not setting properly?

If they are too soft, the sugar mixture may not have boiled long enough. Let it reach a full rolling boil for 1 minute.

Can I make these cookies without peanut butter?

Yes, you can use almond butter, sunflower butter, or even omit it, but the texture may change slightly.

Can I use honey instead of sugar?

Honey will change the texture and flavor, but it can work. Reduce the amount slightly since honey is sweeter than sugar.

How do I prevent my cookies from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

What if I don’t have cocoa powder?

You can melt chocolate chips instead, but the texture will be slightly different.

Can I add protein powder to these cookies?

Yes, mix in a few tablespoons of protein powder for a protein boost.

How long do no-bake cookies take to set?

About 30 minutes at room temperature or 15 minutes in the fridge.

Conclusion

Chocolate Oatmeal No Bake Cookies are a classic treat that's easy to make and incredibly delicious. With no oven required and minimal ingredients, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a quick snack or a sweet dessert, they’re sure to become a favorite. Give them a try and enjoy the perfect blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and oats.

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Chocolate Oatmeal No Bake Cookies

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These Chocolate Oatmeal No Bake Cookies are the ultimate no-fuss dessert! Made with cocoa, peanut butter, and oats, they set beautifully at room temperature for a chewy, fudgy texture. Perfect for a quick sweet treat without turning on the oven!

  • Author: Janet
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Setting Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • ½ cup butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup milk
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups quick oats (or old-fashioned oats for a chewier texture)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Workspace – Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
2️⃣ Boil the Mixture – In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil and let it cook for exactly 1 minute.
3️⃣ Add Peanut Butter and Oats – Remove from heat and quickly stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and oats. Mix until combined.
4️⃣ Scoop the Cookies – Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5️⃣ Let Them Set – Allow cookies to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm.
6️⃣ Enjoy! Once set, they’re ready to eat.

Notes

  • For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cookies after setting.
  • For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar slightly.
  • To prevent dry cookies, don’t overboil the sugar mixture.

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Hi, I’m Janet! Welcome to Recipes by Janet, where I share simple, delicious, and reliable recipes for every meal.

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