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These perfectly easy no-bake cookies are a go-to dessert when you need something quick, dependable, and absolutely delicious. Made with simple pantry staples like cocoa powder, peanut butter, and oats, this classic recipe comes together fast—no oven required.
They’re rich, chocolatey, and perfectly chewy, making them ideal for busy days, last-minute desserts, or cooking alongside kids in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe that sets up beautifully every time, this one won’t disappoint.
If you love how easy these are to make, be sure to check out our No Bake Egg Nest Cookies, our Soft & Chewy Rice Krispie Treats or indulge in our other No Bake Dessert recipes! Browse our ever growing Dessert Recipes for more inspiration!
Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Cookies
- No oven needed
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Made with everyday pantry ingredients
- Kid-friendly and great for helpers
- Perfect for potlucks, gifting, or make-ahead treats
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Butter
- Granulated sugar
- Milk (not pictured, but necessary!)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Creamy peanut butter
- Vanilla extract
- Quick-cooking oats
- 👉 Exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Equipment I Use for This Recipe
- Silicone pastry mat – great non stick surface for removing cookies smoothly
- Medium saucepan – perfect for heating our cookie mixture
- Medium cookie scoop or spoon – helps portion cookies evenly
How to Make Perfectly Easy No-Bake Cookies
No bake cookies move quickly, so it’s important to have everything measured and ready before you begin. Once the mixture reaches the proper boil, timing matters and there’s no pause button.
Butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder are gently heated together until smooth. This allows the sugar to dissolve evenly and creates a cohesive chocolate base without scorching.
When the mixture reaches a true rolling boil — one that doesn’t stop bubbling when stirred — it’s boiled briefly to set the structure of the cookies. This step is what determines whether the cookies firm up properly once cooled.
Removing the pan from the heat before adding the peanut butter and vanilla ensures they melt smoothly into the hot mixture, creating a rich, glossy texture.
The oats are folded in last, coating them evenly while the mixture is still warm and easy to work with.
Scooping the cookies immediately allows them to set cleanly as they cool, creating that classic soft-but-set no bake cookie texture.
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PrintPerfectly Easy No Bake Cookies
These classic no-bake cookies are quick, simple, and made with pantry staples — no oven required. A cozy, chocolate-peanut butter treat that comes together fast and is perfect for busy days, sharing with kids, or last-minute desserts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Set up time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces for easier melting
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups quick-cook oats
Instructions
-
- Before getting started, make sure to gather and measure out all your ingredients. Line your counter with your silicone baking mat or a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Combine the butter, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder and milk in a large saucepan and heat over medium heat, making sure to stir often until the butter is melted and everything is well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, (a boil that can’t be stirred down) and stirring occasionally, allow to boil for 60 seconds (I recommend setting a timer as soon as it starts to roll – boil too short and your cookies won’t set up, boil too long and they’ll be dry and crumble.)
- Remove from the heat, and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla until fully combined.
- Mix in the oats until all of the oats are totally coated with the chocolate peanut butter mixture.
- Use a medium cookie scoop to portion the cookies evenly onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Allow to cool fully before serving.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Storage Instructions:
Cookies may be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freezing Instructions:
Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in a large freezer bag or freezer-friendly storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the cookies to room temperature before serving. DISCLAIMER: They are usually a bit dryer after being frozen.
Milk:
I prefer to use whole milk in this recipe, but 2%, 1%, and skim will all work.
Oats:
You may use old-fashioned rolled oats in these cookies, but they will be chewier. I recommend using quick-cooking oats if possible, or pulsing the old-fashioned rolled oats in a food processor 2 or 3 times to break them down.
Dropping Cookies:
This can be done using a cookie scoop or spoon, the scoop will give you a more put together look, but a plain spoon works just fine in a pinch!
Tips for Perfect No-Bake Cookies Every Time
- Always set a timer for the boiling step – CRITICAL (See “Why this works” below)
- Use quick-cooking oats for the best texture
- Stir quickly after removing from heat so the mixture doesn’t thicken too fast
- Allow cookies to cool completely before moving them
These cookies set best when the sugar mixture reaches a full rolling boil and the oats are fully coated — otherwise, if they don’t boil long enough they will be too soft or not hold their shape, but if they boil too long, they will be dry and crumbly.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Room Temperature:
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week. (Do not refrigerate)
Freezer:
Once completely cooled, freeze cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
- Whole milk, 2%, or almond milk all work well
- Swap peanut butter for almond butter if needed
- Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor balance
- Stir in mini chocolate chips once the mixture has cooled slightly
Final Thoughts
These perfectly easy no-bake cookies are a timeless favorite for good reason. They’re quick, reliable, and always a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight treat or a special gathering, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
If you make it please consider leaving a review.
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