Classic No Bake Cookies Recipe

Johnson Maya

Classic no bake cookies are a timeless American treat blending fudgy chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and chewy oats—no oven needed. Ready in minutes, they deliver nostalgic comfort with pantry staples everyone loves.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 45

Servings: 36 servings

Calories: 116

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
2 cups granulated white sugar
½ cup whole milk
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Pinch of salt
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups quick-cooking oats

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon
Wax paper or parchment
Tablespoon scoop

Method

Step 1: Line countertops with wax paper. In a saucepan over medium-high, melt butter with sugar, milk, cocoa, and salt. Bring to rolling boil, stirring constantly, then boil 1 minute undisturbed until glossy.
Step 2: Remove from heat. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth, about 30 seconds. Fold in oats quickly until fully coated—no more than 1 minute to keep texture chewy.
Step 3: Drop tablespoon mounds onto wax paper, spacing apart. Cool 30-45 minutes until firm. Store airtight.

Nutrition

Notes

STORAGE: Airtight at room temp up to 5 days; fridge 10 days; freeze 3 months.

MAKE AHEAD: Prepare base, add oats day-of for freshest crunch.

SUBSTITUTIONS: Sunflower butter for nut-free; almond milk for dairy-free.

PRO TIPS: Boil exactly 1 minute to 230°F for perfect set. Use quick oats for crunch. Stir minimally post-oats.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Pair with milk, top ice cream, or gift in tins. Rustic stack for parties.

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