Who remembers the scrumptious taste of classic no-bake cookies with peanut butter, oats, and cocoa powder?
These cookies are chewy, fudgy, peanut buttery, and so satisfying! I just can’t put into words how much I love them. I bet my grandma knew my cookie obsession, so she shared this gem with me. If you’ve struggled to make them in the past, this classic no-bake cookie recipe is perfect for you; this process turns out great every time.
Now, it’s my turn to pass on the legacy!
How to store no-bake cookies
Store finished cookies in a zipper baggie or other airtight container. For a softer texture, you can keep the container on the counter for three or four days. Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Can you freeze no-bake cookies?
BIG YES! You can freeze these no-bake cookies. All you need to do is put the cookies in an airtight container and put them in the freezer. To get the same chewy texture, be sure to remove them from the freezer at least 30 minutes before serving.
The bottom line
I had to spend a little time trying to understand my grandma’s handwriting on a tattered recipe card for this one. She really liked cinnamon in hers, and I’ve always been a fan of it in everything, but you don’t have to use it if you don’t have it or don’t want to. I think it melds nicely with the peanut butter and chocolate.
Classic No-Bake Cookie Recipe
This is the classic no-bake version, with peanut butter, cocoa powder, butter, milk and oats! You won't need a candy thermometer for my grandmother's no-fuss, no-bake recipe!
Ingredients
- ½ c salted butter
- ½ c milk
- 1 ½ c white sugar
- ½ c brown sugar, firmly packed
- ½ c creamy peanut butter
- 3 c quick oats
- 1 t vanilla extract
- 4 T unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 dash cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Have all of your ingredients measured and ready to go.
- Combine First 4 Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, milk, white sugar, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugars and melt the butter.
- Boil the Mixture: Once the mixture comes to a rolling boil, allow it to boil gently for about 1 to 2 minutes without stirring. This step is crucial as it ensures the cookies will set properly.
- Remove from Heat: After boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the cocoa powder, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until the peanut butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Oats: Quickly add the oats to the mixture and stir until they are fully coated.
- Form the Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You can use a cookie scoop or two spoons to shape the cookies.
- Let Set: Allow the cookies to set at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes or until firm. You can also place them in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 0Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g