Description
These No-Bake Chocolate Oat Cookies are a quick and easy treat that combines the rich flavor of cocoa with hearty rolled oats and creamy peanut butter. Ready in just 15 minutes, these cookies require no oven baking and set beautifully at room temperature or in the fridge, making them perfect for a simple homemade snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened milk (or dairy-free milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
Instructions
- Heat Chocolate Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, butter, and milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Once boiling, continue cooking for 1-2 minutes while stirring to fully incorporate the ingredients and activate the thickening.
- Add Peanut Butter and Flavoring: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt thoroughly until the peanut butter melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Incorporate Oats: Add the rolled oats to the chocolate mixture and stir well until every oat is coated with the chocolate sauce, ensuring an even distribution.
- Prepare Baking Surface: Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking and to allow easy removal once set.
- Shape Cookies: Using a spoon, scoop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture and drop them onto the prepared tray. You may shape them into neat round mounds or leave the shapes rustic for a homemade look.
- Set the Cookies: Let the cookies sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until they firm up and set. To expedite the process, place them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
- Enjoy and Store: Once set, enjoy your no-bake chocolate oat cookies. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Using honey or maple syrup is optional but adds extra sweetness and a slight chewiness.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder for enhanced flavor.
- Ensure constant stirring during heating to prevent burning or clumping.
- Adjust milk quantity slightly if mixture seems too dry or too runny.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
